This striking Asian treat makes a healthy and fun snack.
My popo (Chinese grandmother) used to feed us hot white rice with butter, avocado and shoyu (soy sauce). Delicious as this is, I challenged myself to find a substitute for a healthier grain with the same savory taste.
Black rice is also referred to as “forbidden rice.” It was initially reserved for Chinese royalty because black rice is not as easy to grow as other rice and was very expensive. Its purplish-black color is a result of its high concentration of anthocyanin which is an antioxidant responsible for the color of eggplant, blueberries, acaí berries, concord grapes, as well as blood oranges, and purple cauliflower, corn, and onions. Studies suggest that anthocyanins can have protective effects against heart disease and cancer and can help with memory and age-related mental functioning. Aim for 3 or more servings of a purple plant source per week.
Try this recipe for a healthy Halloween surprise.
Servings: 10 (2/3-cup musubis)
Prep time: 50 minutes (includes time allotted for rice to steam)
*Cook time or amount of liquid may need to be adjusted. Generally, recipes ask for 1 3/4 cup water for every 1 cup of rice.