Organic Black Rice - West Bengal

Organic “Black Rice”, From West Midnapore, West Bengal. It is organically grown and is hand harvested only. The geographical location and pollution free environment of West Bengal gives Black Rice a unique flavor and characteristics. It has a mild and nutty flavor and chewy texture.

Black Rice is native to China and is cultivated in India, Indonesia, Thailand and China. It is also known as “Forbidden Rice” because in Ancient China, it was unique and reserved for royalty only. Its yield is low as compared to all the other types of rice. It is a whole grain because it contains bran, germ and endosperm. Its bran layer contains the highest levels of “anthocyanins” and hence it is black in color. It is healthier than white rice because it is a whole grain and white rice is a refined grain. It can be a substitute of Brown Rice. It has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. It is a superfood and contains protein, iron, potassium, vitamin E, zinc, riboflavin and many more vitamins and minerals.

Black Rice is very nutritious and has many health benefits like-protects heart diseases, reduces obesity, protects cancer, lowers cholesterol, aids weight loss, lowers blood sugar levels, good for hair, skin and eyes, boosts immunity, protects liver and kidney diseases, reduces inflammation, prevents constipation, aids digestion, boosts metabolism, strengthens muscles, improves cognitive function, heals wound, prevents allergies, fights free radicals, cures asthma etc. It detoxes the body.

Black Rice is very rare and is gluten free. It is used like white rice only and is used in almost all the cuisines across the world from soups to desserts, everything. It should not be consumed in access. It should be soaked in water for 1 hour (or overnight for better texture) and then rinsed thoroughly and it takes about 30-40 mins to cook (It needs almost double the amount of water-1:2). It takes more time to cook than white rice. It might attain deep purple hue and get sticky after getting cooked. Pregnant and breastfeeding ladies and children can consume it. Diabetes patients should consume it in moderation. It should be stored in an air tight container and has a shelf life of 1 year.