Coconut Forbidden Purple Rice With Almonds

What is Forbidden Rice?

This heirloom black rice has been an important part of Asian cuisine for thousands of years

Also called Emperor’s rice, forbidden black rice got its’ names because it was first used in traditional Chinese medicine, and reserved exclusively for aristocracy

What Does Forbidden Black Rice Taste Like?

Because the bran is intact, the flavor is nutty, slightly sweet and floral, and the texture is chewy

There are several varieties, each with its’ own unique taste

Is Forbidden Black Rice Healthy?

Black rice, often called “forbidden rice,” is a nutritional powerhouse that offers a remarkable array of health benefits. Rich in anthocyanins — the same potent antioxidants found in blueberries and blackberries — black rice gets its striking dark hue from these compounds, which help combat oxidative stress and reduce inflammation throughout the body. Compared to white rice, black rice retains its bran layer, making it significantly higher in fiber, which supports healthy digestion, promotes satiety, and helps regulate blood sugar levels — a key advantage for those managing diabetes or weight. It is also a good source of plant-based protein, iron, and essential vitamins like B1 and B6, supporting energy metabolism and overall cellular function. Studies suggest that the anthocyanins in black rice may contribute to heart health by reducing LDL cholesterol oxidation and improving arterial flexibility, lowering the risk of cardiovascular disease. Its naturally low glycemic index means it releases energy gradually, preventing the blood sugar spikes associated with refined grains. Additionally, black rice contains lutein and zeaxanthin, antioxidants known to protect eye health. With its rich, nutty flavor and dense nutritional profile, black rice is a compelling upgrade from conventional white or even brown rice.

What are anthocyanins?

Of the 6,000+ flavonoids known, there are six main types of anthocyanins

They are found in fruits, veggies, and grains with red, blue, black, or purple hues including cherries, berries, grapes, pomegranates, purple cabbage, radishes, red onions, purple cauliflower, eggplant skin, black rice, black soybeans, and some beverages like red wine and grape juice

Anthocyanins are water soluble, so it’s best to avoid boiling these foods, unless you are using the cooking liquid, such as the coconut black forbidden rice recipe below, where all of the water is absorbed

Anthocyanins boost immunity, aid in weight loss, decrease inflammation, and help protect against chronic inflammatory disease such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes

Where Can I Buy Forbidden Black Rice?

Many supermarkets, online markets, and Asian markets. The origins are Japan, but there are now many varieties grown in many other countries

How Do I Cook Forbidden Black Rice?

If using an electric cooker, use the same setting you would use for brown rice, and the same amount of water, plus a pinch of salt

If you are cooking on the stovetop, you will need 2 cups of water per each cup of rice, and boil on the stove for a minimum of 30 minutes, but it may take up to 60 minutes. The kernels will soften, but will still have a bite.

Try this simple stovetop recipe below!

Serve as a side with chicken, fish, poultry, tofu, beans, or any favorite protein, plus a green vegetable

For a richer, creamier rice, use full fat coconut milk instead of lite coconut milk as in this recipe. To lighten up the rice, use half of the coconut milk and displace it with water.

Store leftovers in the frig and consume within three days. Leftovers may need a little bit of water added as the rice will thicken up as it sits.

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Forbidden Coconut Purple Rice

This heirloom rice is anything but forbidden due to its’ benefits including weight management, eye health, anti-inflammatory, and protection against cancer, heart disease, and diabetes. It gets it’s black/purple hue from anthocyanins, a potent antioxidant

Course Side Dish

Cuisine anti inflammatory, asian, Chinese, Comfort Food, dairy free, gluten free, Healthy, Japanese, Mediterranean, plant based, vegan, vegetarian

Keyword 30 Minute Meal, 5 Ingredients, Anthocyanins, Anti Cancer, Anti Inflammatory, Coconut, Comfort Food, Detox, Food is Medicine, Immune Boost, Rice

Prep Time 5 minutes

Cook Time 30 minutes

Servings 4

Calories 223 kcal

Ingredients

• 1 cup forbidden rice
• 1 15 oz can lite or reduced fat coconut milk
• 1 cup water
• Generous pinch of sea salt
• ½ cup slivered almonds
• ½ cup chopped scallions optional

Instructions

1. Rinse rice in strainer, and add to medium size pot with lid
2. Add coconut milk, water, and sea salt
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a low simmer
4. Cover and simmer low for 30 minutes, or until liquid is mostly absorbed, stirring occasionally
5. Remove from heat, and allow to stand covered for 10 minutes
6. Fluff with fork, and garnish with slivered almonds and chopped scallions (optional)

Recipe Notes

Cut fat (6g) and calories (by 75) by omitting coconut milk, and adding two more cups of cooking water