Black rice is renowned for both its rich nutritional profile as well as deep flavour. Interestingly, in past it was only served to the privileged and wealthy.

I find that mixing black rice half and half with white basmati variety yields perfect texture: light and fluffy with a touch of nutty chewiness.

This simple recipe is surprisingly vibrant in taste with complexity of flavour. Do try it and I hope you enjoy it as much we do in my family.

Aromatic "Forbidden" Black Rice

Vibrant, nutritious with complex flavours
Prep Time 30 mins
Course Main Course, Side Dish
Servings 4 people

Equipment

  • Pressure Cooker, optional

Ingredients
  

Rice Ingredients

  • 1 tbsp ghee
  • 1/2 cup black rice - rinsed and soaked for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight
  • 1/2 cup white basmati rice
  • 1 1/2 cup water
  • 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
  • 1 kaffir lime leaf
  • 1/2 tsp mineral salt

Topping

  • 1 tbsp coriander seeds
  • 1 tsp aniseed
  • 2 tbsp ghee
  • 2 dried rosebuds, crushed

Instructions
 

  • Heat 1 tbsp ghee and gently cook the ginger and lime leaf till the aroma comes up.
  • Stir in the salt, both types of rice, mix to combine.
  • Pour in the water and pressure cook for 18 minutes and use natural release. Alternatively, cook on a hob under a lid till the black rice is soft. (You might need a little extra water.)
  • Just before serving, heat the remaining 2 tbsp ghee and gently toast the coriander seeds along with aniseed for about a minute.
  • Stir the mixture into the rice and serve with the crushed dried rosebuds.
Keyword black rice, forbidden rice, gluten free, rice