Black Rice

What Is Black Rice?

Black rice is a group of whole-grain rice (Oryza sativa) with dark purple-black bran. This dark color comes from a natural pigment called anthocyanin, which is also found in blueberries and various purple fruits.

It is also called “forbidden rice” because legend has it that historically in China it was reserved for nobles. Since the bran is retained, it is a whole grain; when cooked, it turns a deep purple-plum color and has a mildly nutty flavor.

Black Rice Nutrition Facts

100 grams of raw black rice contain about 356 kcal of energy and 8.9 g of protein, as well as fiber and iron because it is a whole grain; anthocyanins, which give it its dark color, are notable plant compounds. Values should be considered approximate because they vary by cultivar.

What Are the Benefits of Black Rice?

With its whole-grain structure and fiber content, black rice can be considered part of a balanced diet; research on its anthocyanins is ongoing. Because it does not contain gluten, it is also suitable for people with celiac disease.

This information is general; black rice is a food and is not a substitute for medical treatment.

How to Choose Black Rice

High-quality black rice grains should be whole, dark, and a matte purple-black; choose products with a fresh aroma and a low proportion of broken grains.

• The grains should be whole, dark purple-black, and matte.
• The proportion of broken grains and dust should be low.
• Because the rice retains its bran, it should smell fresh, not bitter or sour.

How to Store Black Rice

Because black rice is a whole grain with its bran, it may spoil sooner than white rice; store it in a sealed container in a cool, dry place for about 6 months, or for longer in the refrigerator.

Using Black Rice in the Kitchen

Black rice is used in pilafs, grain salads, and desserts (especially Far Eastern black rice pudding); when cooked, its dark purple color released into the water creates a striking presentation.

How to Cook Black Rice

Rinse the black rice and, if possible, soak it in water for a few hours; then cook it over low heat with about twice its volume of water for 30–40 minutes, until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender, then let it steam.

Why Does Black Rice Color the Water?

Water-soluble anthocyanin pigments in the bran transfer into the water during cooking; as a result, the cooking water and rice turn a dark purple-plum color. This is natural.

What Recipes Use Black Rice?

Black rice pilaf, colorful grain salads, black rice pudding, and sushi blends are common uses for black rice.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between black rice and brown rice?

Both are whole grains with their bran retained; the difference is the color of the bran. Black rice bran is purple-black because of anthocyanin, while brown rice bran is brown.

Why is black rice called “forbidden rice”?

According to legend, in ancient China it was rare and valuable, so it was reserved for nobles and consumption by the public was restricted; this is why it is called “forbidden rice.”

Should black rice be soaked?

Although it is not required, soaking it for a few hours shortens the cooking time of the bran-on grains and helps them cook more evenly.

Is black rice gluten-free?

Yes; like all rice, black rice is naturally gluten-free and suitable for people with celiac disease.

Can black rice be used in desserts?

Yes; black rice pudding made with coconut milk is a common and popular dish in Southeast Asian cuisine.