forbidden rice

Some might ask, what is forbidden rice?  Aside from dangerously tasty – the story behind it goes….. black aka "forbidden rice" is so named because originally once the Emperor (of China) had it, he forbade the people to eat it.  Thus, named forbidden rice.

Forbidden (black) rice is high in nutritional value including iron AND it is gluten free!  A deep black color, it turns purple when cooked.  It is a deep black color and turns deep purple when cooked.  Additionally it is high in amino acids.  Reminder – IT is MOST tasty.

Thus, the lead in is… I tried out something new for dinner this evening (John is such a great “guinea pig”).   Of course it consisted of forbidden rice and I created a meal with a bit of Asian flare.   Consisting of black rice cooked (in veggie broth)… the rice was slightly cooled then drizzled with a miso dressing.  Allowing the flavors to co-mingle for several hours, the rice was served on a bed of organic red leaf lettuce with Kung Pao tempeh and broccoli. Even JOHN (who LOVES heat) said it was fire breathing.   Thus, this recipe will be called Dragon Rice.  Served on the side was a Japanese cucumber salad.   

Where can one purchase forbidden rice?  As we live in Central Oregon, it is not so easy to find items priced reasonable for consumption, so when we do a road trip to Portland, we shop at Fuboon’s or Uwajimaya’s (Beaverton or Seattle).  Either store have it available for purchase in 2 to 5 pound bags for under $10.   Larger cities one should be able to find it easier.