Forbidden black rice, also known simply as black rice, is a strikingly beautiful grain with a deep purple-black hue and a rich, nutty flavor. Once reserved for ancient Chinese royalty-hence the name “forbidden”-this rice has become a favorite for health-conscious food lovers due to its high antioxidant content, fiber, and unique taste. If you’re wondering how to cook forbidden black rice perfectly every time, this friendly guide will walk you through the basics and offer tips to make your cooking experience easy and delicious.
What Is Forbidden Black Rice?
Forbidden black rice is a whole grain rice variety with a dark color caused by high levels of anthocyanins, the same antioxidants found in blueberries and blackberries. It has a slightly chewy texture and a mildly sweet, nutty flavor that pairs well with a wide range of dishes-from simple sides to vibrant grain bowls and salads.
How to Cook Forbidden Black Rice: Step-by-Step
1. Rinse the Rice
Start by rinsing 1 cup of black rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming gummy or clumping during cooking.
2. Soak (Optional but Recommended)
Because black rice has a thicker outer hull than white rice, soaking it for a few hours or overnight can help it cook more evenly and yield a softer, more tender texture. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step, but soaking is ideal for the best results.
3. Measure Water and Cook
The typical water-to-rice ratio for cooking forbidden black rice on the stovetop is about 1¾ cups of water for every 1 cup of rice. Add the rinsed rice and water to a pot, along with a teaspoon of olive oil and a pinch of salt if desired.
4. Bring to a Boil and Simmer
– Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat.
– Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid, and let it simmer gently for about 30 minutes. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to keep the steam trapped inside.
5. Let It Steam
After 30 minutes, turn off the heat but keep the pot covered. Let the rice steam for an additional 10 to 15 minutes. This resting time allows the rice to finish cooking and absorb any remaining moisture.
6. Fluff and Serve
Use a fork to fluff the rice gently before serving. The grains should be tender yet chewy, with a beautiful glossy black-purple color.
Alternative Cooking Methods
Instant Pot or Pressure Cooker
For a hands-off approach, you can cook black rice in an Instant Pot. Use a 1:1 ratio of rice to water, add a pinch of salt, and cook on high pressure for about 18 minutes. Allow a natural pressure release for at least 10 minutes before opening.
Rice Cooker
Simply rinse the rice, add the recommended water, and cook as you would white rice. The rice cooker will automatically adjust the cooking time and temperature.
Tips for Perfect Forbidden Black Rice
– Don’t skip rinsing: It prevents clumping and improves texture.
– Use a tight lid: This traps steam and cooks the rice evenly.
– Avoid stirring while cooking: Stirring can break grains and make the rice mushy.
– Try soaking: Soaking for 4-6 hours or overnight softens the grains and reduces cooking time.
– Add flavor: Cook rice in broth instead of water or add aromatics like garlic or shallots to infuse more flavor.
Serving Suggestions for Forbidden Black Rice
Forbidden black rice is versatile and can be used in many dishes:
– As a side dish: Season with salt, pepper, or a squeeze of lime juice.
– Grain bowls: Pair with roasted veggies, tofu, tempeh, or eggs, and drizzle with sauces like tahini, peanut sauce, or cilantro lime dressing.
– Salads: Toss cooled black rice with fresh herbs, nuts, and vinaigrette.
– Pilaf: Sauté shallots and garlic, then cook rice in broth with herbs and nuts for a flavorful pilaf.
– Breakfast bowls: Mix cooked black rice with coconut milk, berries, and nuts for a nutritious start to your day.
Forbidden black rice is not only a feast for the eyes but also a powerhouse of nutrition and flavor. With simple steps and a little patience, you can master cooking this ancient grain and enjoy its unique taste in countless delicious meals. Give it a try and discover why it was once the rice of emperors!
Enjoy your forbidden black rice adventure!