Thousands of years ago in ancient China, black rice was known as Forbidden Rice and reserved only for the nobles, due to its potential health benefits. The common people were not allowed to grow or consume this black rice, which led to its unique name that it still carries with it today.
The Forbidden City-—once the home of emperors——is a huge tourist destination today.
Health Benefits of Black Rice
Black Rice contains a class of flavonoid antioxidants called anthocyanins which is also found in blueberries and other purple foods.
A study presented by the American Chemical Society, in Boston, shows that a spoonful of black rice bran or 10 spoonfuls of cooked black rice contains the same amount of antioxidants as a spoonful of fresh blueberries.
It is also a rich source of zinc, copper, and iron, and is a significant source of dietary fibre.
I think another reason it was - and is - rare and more expensive, is that it produces a much lower yield than other rices.
But it sure is unique. I can’t even compare it to other rices - my favorite type is Basmati - because it tastes so different. But it’s definitely worth a try for a very interesting side-dish.