Black is the new Brown
Apr 14th, 2011
I try my hardest not to put any white colored food into my body. Most white or beige colored foods are highly processed and full of sugar. On occasion, I will throw a teeny tiny scoop of basmati into my curry but that’s as far as I go. The healthier alternative to white rice has always been the brown version. Brown rice is a better option because it contains more fiber and lipid-soluble antioxidants (the really good ones) than white rice. White rice is simply brown rice with the outer shell removed. When the shell is removed, so are some nutrients. I personally don’t care for the taste of brown rice so I forgo it all together. But now I have another choice: Black Rice. Sounds sort of sexy and exotic doesn’t it? In the east it was commonly referred to as ‘forbidden rice’ because only the royals were allowed to eat it. It was thought to be much more superior to white rice. Turns out they were correct.
Like most purple-hued foods, black rice contains anthocyanins, an excellent antioxidant food source that is a perfect component for cancer prevention, is linked to a decreased risk of heart disease and helps with improving memory. One spoonful of black-rice bran – or 10 spoonfuls of cooked black rice – contains the same amount of anthocyanin as a spoonful of fresh blueberries but with less sugar content, according to a study presented at the American Chemical Society, in Boston.
Okay, now we know it’s super healthy but how does it taste?? Truthfully, the flavor is not going to be for everyone. It’s chewier than brown rice and has a deep, nutty flavor with a hint of floral. Hmm, sounds kind of like a wine review. It’s also not as adaptable a side dish like it’s white and brown versions. Try it with this recipe from Epicurious with sweet potatoes or this one with shrimp from Food & Wine.
It’s important to remember the health benefits of black rice lie in the bran, so choose whole-grain varieties when shopping. Look for “whole black rice” at the top of the ingredients list. Try it and let me know what you think!
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Written by Lea Barlow • Leave a comment
