Black rice, also known as forbidden rice, has been gaining popularity in recent years due to its impressive nutritional profile and unique flavor. With its nutty, earthy taste and vibrant purple color, black rice is an excellent addition to any meal. Whether you’re a health enthusiast or just looking to spice up your cooking routine, we’ve got you covered with these 18 exotic black rice recipes. From hearty bowls and flavorful stir-fries to sweet puddings and savory sushi rolls, there’s something for everyone on this list. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world, exploring the versatility of black rice in various cuisines and dishes. So, let’s get cooking and discover the amazing world of black rice!
Black Rice and Coconut Milk Pudding
Rich and creamy, this pudding combines the subtle flavor of black rice with the smoothness of coconut milk.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black rice
– 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cooked black rice, coconut milk, sugar, and salt.
2. Whisk until the sugar is dissolved, then bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce the heat to low and cook for 5-7 minutes or until the pudding has thickened slightly.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Pour the pudding into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Thai Black Rice Salad with Mango
Experience the sweet and savory flavors of Thailand with this refreshing black rice salad, perfectly paired with juicy mango.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked Thai black rice (also known as glutinous or sticky rice)
– 2 cups mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and lettuce)
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Crushed peanuts or cashews for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the black rice according to package instructions.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, mango, red bell pepper, and cilantro.
3. Add cooked black rice to the bowl and toss gently.
4. Squeeze lime juice over the salad and sprinkle with fish sauce (if using).
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with crushed peanuts or cashews (if desired).
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Black Rice Sushi Rolls with Avocado
Experience the unique flavor of black rice sushi rolls paired with creamy avocado.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black rice
– 1/2 cup short-grain Japanese rice
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/2 avocado, sliced
– 1 sheet nori seaweed
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Mix cooked black rice with Japanese rice and water in a bowl.
2. Lay the nori sheet flat on a cutting board.
3. Place about 1 tablespoon of the black rice mixture onto the nori, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
4. Arrange sliced avocado on top of the rice mixture.
5. Roll the nori into a tight cylinder using your fingers or a bamboo sushi mat.
6. Slice the roll in half and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Black Rice Stir-Fry with Vegetables
A flavorful and nutritious stir-fry dish that combines the nutty taste of black rice with a variety of colorful vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black rice
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 1 carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (such as shiitake and cremini)
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the bell pepper and carrot; cook for an additional 4-5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Add the mushrooms and cooked black rice; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until the rice is heated through.
5. Season with soy sauce to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Black Rice Porridge with Honey and Nuts
This comforting bowl of black rice porridge is infused with the sweetness of honey and crunch of nuts, making it a perfect winter treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black rice
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup chopped almonds or walnuts
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine black rice and water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.
2. Stir in honey until dissolved.
3. Add chopped nuts and salt. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Serve warm, garnished with additional nuts if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Black Rice and Chickpea Buddha Bowl
Nourish your body and soul with this vibrant and nutritious Buddha Bowl, featuring the earthy flavor of black rice and the creamy texture of chickpeas.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black rice
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped scallions, shredded coconut, or toasted sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the black rice according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and cook until slightly caramelized (about 5 minutes).
3. Add the garlic and ginger; cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Stir in the chickpeas; season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Divide the cooked black rice between two bowls. Top each bowl with the chickpea mixture and garnish as desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (includes cooking time for black rice)
Black Rice Paella with Seafood
A twist on the classic Spanish dish, this black rice paella combines the bold flavors of seafood with the nutty taste of squid ink-infused rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup black rice (squid ink-infused)
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound mixed seafood (shrimp, mussels, clams), cleaned and patted dry
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large paella pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add seafood; cook until pink and cooked through, about 5 minutes.
4. Add black rice, water, diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring mixture to a boil; reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until rice is tender.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Black Rice Risotto with Mushrooms
Elevate your risotto game with this creamy and earthy dish, featuring black rice and sautéed mushrooms.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice (black or regular)
– 2 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (e.g., cremini, shiitake), cleaned and sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add Arborio rice; cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Warm broth in a separate pot. Add 1/2 cup warmed broth to rice mixture; stir until absorbed.
6. Repeat step 5, adding remaining broth in 1/2-cup increments, stirring and allowing each portion to be absorbed before adding the next.
7. Remove from heat; stir in Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley or thyme.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes
Black Rice and Kale Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the earthy taste of black rice with the nutritional powerhouse of kale.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked black rice
– 2 cups chopped curly kale
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked black rice, chopped kale, grated cheese, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each pepper with the rice-kale mixture, filling to the top.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the peppers and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Black Rice Congee with Ginger and Scallions
Warm up with this comforting Chinese-inspired congee, infused with the soothing flavors of ginger and scallions.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup black rice (also known as glutinous or sticky rice)
– 4 cups water
– 2 inches fresh ginger, sliced
– 3 green scallions, thinly sliced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the black rice and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and rinse the rice again, then transfer it to a large pot with 4 cups of fresh water.
3. Add sliced ginger and scallions to the pot.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour.
5. Stir in vegetable oil and season with salt to taste.
6. Serve warm, garnished with additional scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Black Rice and Lentil Soup
This hearty soup combines the nutty flavor of black rice with the comforting warmth of red lentils, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup black rice
– 1 cup red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the black rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a large pot, combine the rinsed black rice, red lentils, vegetable broth, onion, garlic, carrot, celery, and cumin.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 40-45 minutes or until the rice and lentils are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Black Rice Tabbouleh with Fresh Herbs
A twist on the classic tabbouleh recipe, this dish combines the nutty flavor of black rice with fresh herbs and a hint of lemon. Perfect for a light and refreshing side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black rice
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked black rice, parsley, mint, and scallions.
2. Squeeze the lemon juice over the mixture and toss to combine.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Black Rice Noodle Salad with Peanut Dressing
This salad is a unique fusion of Asian flavors and textures, featuring black rice noodles, crunchy vegetables, and a creamy peanut dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup black rice noodles
– 2 cups mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and lettuce)
– 1 cup sliced red bell peppers
– 1 cup sliced carrots
– 1/2 cup chopped scallions
– 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook black rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, red bell peppers, carrots, and scallions.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey until smooth.
4. Pour the dressing over the noodle mixture and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Black Rice and Sweet Potato Cakes
Transform ordinary rice and sweet potatoes into a flavorful and nutritious meal with these Black Rice and Sweet Potato Cakes. Perfect for a quick breakfast, lunch, or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black rice
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked black rice, mashed sweet potatoes, grated cheese (if using), olive oil, chopped onion, and beaten egg. Mix well.
3. Divide the mixture into 4-6 portions, depending on desired cake size.
4. Shape each portion into a patty and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cakes are lightly browned and firm to the touch.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Black Rice Pudding with Cardamom and Rose Water
This creamy pudding is a unique twist on traditional rice desserts, infused with the warm spices of cardamom and the sweet fragrance of rose water.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black rice (preferably day-old)
– 2 cups milk
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon rose water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, sugar, cardamom, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. Add the cooked black rice to the saucepan and stir to combine.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the pudding thickens slightly, stirring frequently.
4. Remove from heat and stir in rose water.
5. Let cool to room temperature before refrigerating for at least 2 hours or overnight.
6. Serve chilled, garnished with a sprinkle of cardamom powder if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Black Rice and Grilled Salmon Bowl
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of black rice with the richness of grilled salmon, all wrapped up in a flavorful bowl.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black rice
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, soy sauce, and honey.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the salmon fillets.
4. Grill the salmon for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Cook black rice according to package instructions.
6. To assemble the bowls, place a scoop of black rice in the bottom, followed by a piece of grilled salmon.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Black Rice and Tofu Stir-Fry
A flavorful and nutritious stir-fry that combines the nutty taste of black rice with the protein-rich tofu, all wrapped up in a savory sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black rice
– 1/2 block firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the pan and stir-fry until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the mixed vegetables and cooked tofu back into the pan. Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Pour the sauce over the ingredients in the pan.
6. Serve immediately over black rice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Black Rice and Pineapple Fried Rice
A twist on traditional fried rice, this dish combines the nutty flavor of black rice with sweet pineapple chunks and savory soy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup diced fresh pineapple
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Push the vegetables to one side of the pan. Crack in 1 egg and scramble it into a fluffy mess.
5. Mix the egg with the vegetables. Add the cooked black rice, pineapple, and soy sauce. Stir-fry everything together for about 2-3 minutes until combined.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes from start to finish.
Summary
Discover the nutritional benefits and versatility of black rice with these 18 exotic recipes. From sweet treats like Black Rice Pudding with Cardamom and Rose Water to savory dishes like Black Rice Paella with Seafood, there’s something for every taste and dietary preference. Try making a healthy Buddha Bowl with black rice, chickpeas, and avocado, or indulge in a decadent Black Rice Risotto with Mushrooms. Whether you’re looking for vegan, gluten-free, or simply delicious meal ideas, this collection of recipes is sure to inspire your next culinary adventure.
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