Know more about Organic Black Rice - Nutritional Facts, Uses & Benefits
Rice is a staple food in Indian households and invariably everyone enjoys their favourite curries with rice. Rice is available in several varieties like white rice, brown rice and black rice.
Traces of this variety of rice is found back in China when they consumed black rice for several ailments. Rice was available in several colours and soon it was found that colour preference sought its prevalence. Because of its taste, black rice was monopolised by the wealthy; only for those who were royalty. It was forbidden for everyone else which is how it earned its famous title - forbidden rice. Forbidden rice is no longer forbidden and you can find it almost anywhere. Find organic black rice online at I Say Organic and give this “forbidden fruit” (or rice) a shot.
In modern times, this rice is quite a food up for debate. Some find appeal in including black rice in their daily diets, while others contemplate whether it's better to consider the other varieties that are healthier. Nonetheless, this particular variety boasts health benefits we cannot turn a blind eye to. So, organic black rice whole foods are something you should try adding to your food regime.
What Is Black Rice And Why Is It Black In colour?
Black rice or purple rice as it is also called, belongs to the rice species of Oryza Sativa which was first found in China. Later it saw its spread in the rest of the Asian continent. Generally, its outermost layer is not shedded which makes it like unrefined rice. This specific rice includes a range of rice varieties like the Indonesian black rice, the Thai jasmine black rice, the Philippine balatinaw black rice etc.
Black rice gets its proverbial black or purple colour from a special pigment called anthocyanin. This pigment is water soluble and depending on the pH levels can take red, purple, black or blue as its colour. This is the same pigment that gives brinjals and blueberries its colour.
Benefits Of Black Rice
Let’s take a look at some organic black rice benefits:
1] Antioxidant Properties
The pigment that gives black rice its purplish, deep black hue is anthocyanin. This pigment is present in the outermost layer of the rice and has antioxidant properties that help against inflammation. Antioxidants are known to protect against free radicals and this particular pigment restricts their movements. Thus, it helps in protecting against cardiovascular diseases.
2] Diabetes Regulation
Anthocyanins also regulate our blood sugar levels, in turn promoting diabetes management. This is because the fibre present in the rice helps in regulating glucose and absorbing it which ensures our blood sugar levels remain consistent.
3] Natural Detoxifier
Yet another one of the organic black rice benefits is that it works as a good detoxifier, flushing out all the toxins present in our bodies. This is possible because of the presence of phytonutrients. They also cleanse our body from all sorts of disease-causing free radicals which benefits us in remaining healthy.
4] Improves Heart Health
Organic black rice helps in maintaining cholesterol levels by reducing the bad cholesterol which contributes to various heart diseases. It also flushes out excess cholesterol which helps in keeping blood pressure levels in check.
5] Is Good For Your Skin
Black rice benefits for skin include promoting healthy and glossy skin. The presence of Vitamin E content in black rice is what makes this happen. It is a natural antioxidant which tightens your skin and gives it that healthy look.
6] It can provide protection against cancer
There are numerous black rice health benefits and a few studies have even claimed that the pigment that imparts a unique back purple colour to black rice can even keep a check on the breast cancer cells in the human body. (1) Although there haven't been substantial studies undertaken to back this claim but there is still no denying the stellar healing and restrictive properties of black rice.
7] It takes care of your eyes as well
Research has shown that Black rice has particular kind of carotenoids called Lutein and zeaxanthin which have potent benefits when it comes to taking care of one’s eye health.
Nutritional Factors Of Black Rice
Black rice nutrition content includes highest protein as compared to other varieties of rice. It is rich in antioxidants, calcium, potassium and zinc.
Each uncooked serving has about
- 160 calories
- 1 to 1.5 grams of fat
- 4 to 5 grams of protein
- 4 to 6% of iron.
- It also has around 1 to 1.5 grams of fibre content.
Black Rice Recipes And Dishes
Black rice can be cooked just like your normal white rice – boiled, in a rice cooker or using the pasta method. There are several dishes where you can incorporate this variety of rice. Salads are one very common dish that you will find when you try to look up a recipe. You can also swap the normal rice that you use for black rice in any rice dish. Many recipes also use black rice in side dishes. From risottos to rice bowls and dessert recipes, this food item is very versatile. Ultimately, the choice when it comes to how you want to use this ingredient rests on you. Want to explore this variety? buy organic black rice at I Say Organic.
Black Rice Benefits for Skin
Apart from the outstanding black rice nutrient content, there are other ways to reap its benefits too. For instance, for healthy glowing skin, you can use organic black rice powder with honey and use it as a face pack. You can also boil black rice and use the water for hair growth. Boil black rice in water for about 10-15 minutes. Let it cool. Apply the black rice over your hair and let it sit for half an hour. Rinse using your normal shower routine.
How To Store Organic Black Rice?
You can store uncooked organic black rice in a cool and dry place, in an airtight container. Make sure that it does not come in contact with any form of moisture. The shelf life for uncooked organic black rice is between 3 to 6 months if you store it in your pantry. If you open the package, then you can store it in your refrigerator. To store cooked organic black rice, pack it in an airtight container, ensuring it does not come in contact with the humidity of the environment. You can refrigerate it for about 4 days before it is used again.
Of course, before trying out something fairly new we all have our doubts. But, sometimes it is a good thing to explore a little. When it comes to food, we want to make no mistakes. Perhaps, you have a little bit of a spark of interest now in trying forbidden rice. Find the best organic black rice at I Say Organic and give this new variety a shot.
About I Say Organic
We aim to deliver organically grown food to every home for a healthy lifestyle and a healthy planet. Find the most authentic organic foods online with no compromises in taste whatsoever. Buy organic black rice whole foods, organic black rice powder and also explore our range of fruits & vegetables, organic snacks, dried spices, cooking essentials, dry fruits & seeds, whole foods and much more at one place only.
FAQs
Q1] Can you eat black rice daily?
A1] Yes, black rice can be consumed daily as it is healthier than the other varieties.
Q2] Should black rice be soaked before cooking?
A2] It is not necessary to soak black rice however, if you prefer to, you can soak it for an hour before cooking. You can also soak it overnight.
Q3] Do Black Rice have high protein content compared to other varieties of rice?
A3] Yes, Black Rice Protein is greater in terms of quantity when compared to other varieties of rice. In addition to protein, black rice also has a rich source of fibre, iron and other antioxidants as well.
Q4] How can black rice help me in managing my weight?
A4] Black rice has a very good fibre content therefore it adds a good dose of soluble fibre to your diet. (2) This can be significantly helpful for those who are trying to watch their weight.
Q5] How can I consume black to rice?
A5] The distinct black and purple colour of black rice makes it very appealing in terms of visual presentation. In addition to consuming black rice with curries, you can pre soak them and even use them in desserts.
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