What is black rice? Why was it believed to be a prized possession

When you walk down the aisle at your grocery store you will often see brown or jasmine rice. Hidden among them is a glossy grain that looks almost like Caviar, and is known as Black rice. Historically called 'Forbidden Rice' this ancient grain was prized and ordinary people were strictly banned from eating it. You might ask, what makes black rice so special and why did people treat rice like gold in the past?What exactly is rice?Black rice is a member of the rice family (Oryza sativa L.) that shows a deep purple‑black color. When black rice is cooked it turns a shade and has a nutty taste and a chewy texture.The dark color of rice comes from a high level of anthocyanins the same plant pigments and antioxidants that are found in blueberries, blackberries and acai berries. Because black rice is eaten whole the outer bran layer stays on black rice contains more nutrients than refined white rice.The royal history: Why black rice was a possessionIn China black rice was seen as extraordinary. Nobles and emperors believed that eating rice would give them life, vitality and good health. Because the crop yields were naturally low and difficult to harvest compared to white rice, royalty seized control of its production. Royalty hoarded rice for themselves making it illegal for commoners to grow or consume it without permission. If a common person was caught eating rice they faced punishment. Black rice was literally forbidden to the public. Was a status symbol reserved strictly for the Emperor’s palace to nourish bodies.Why the royalty was rightAncient emperors did not have lab equipment. Their intuition was spot on. Science today confirms that black rice is one of the nutrient‑rich whole grains on earth:Antioxidant levels: Research published by the American Chemical Society found that a single spoonful of black rice bran contains more anthocyanin antioxidants than a spoonful of blueberries. It also has fiber and lower sugar.Vascular protection: Studies show that anthocyanins help prevent plaque buildup in arteries. They reduce LDL cholesterol. They improve function.Protein and iron powerhouse: When you compare rice to regular rice you find that black rice has much more protein and iron in each serving. This makes black rice a strong choice for energy. It helps support oxygen movement in the blood.Blood sugar regulation: Black rice has an amount of fiber and complex carbs. Because of this it has an index, which means it does not cause sharp rises in blood sugar levels.In a nutshell what used to be a food for emperors is now available, to everyone. With its history, nutty taste and powerful nutrition black rice truly deserves to be called a superfood.Get the latest movie news, reviews, and celebrity updates. Download the TOI App.