How to cook red rice and 5 recipes for beginners

Compared to white rice, red rice has higher nutritional value and is rich in minerals such as zinc and iron. In fact, there are about 40,000 varieties of rice. But our knowledge is limited to a few prominent ones. Red rice was not invented recently, but its health benefits are making it popular.

Red rice gets its eye-catching color because of the antioxidant anthocyanin, which is also abundant in acai berries. Red rice is a nutritional powerhouse and is known as Raktasalior matta rice or Kerala red rice due to its origin in Kerala. It is a nutritional powerhouse and an integral part of Indian cuisine. Red rice is rich in antioxidants and fiber and helps lower cholesterol, improve digestion and more.

But what is the right way to cook red rice? Health Shots Consulted Dr. Ushakiran Sisodia, Registered Dietitian and Clinical Nutritionist, Nanavati Max Super Specialty Hospital, Mumbai shares some red rice recipes to help you understand how to cook red rice and cook delicious meals with this type of rice.

How to cook red rice?

Cook red rice the right way using a simple 2-step method!

Also read

Wash and soak

Start by washing 1 cup of red rice thoroughly under running water until the water runs clear. This helps in removing any impurities. Soak the rice in water for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour.

cooking

In a pot, combine the soaked rice with 3 cups of water. Let the water come to a boil, then reduce the heat. Cover the pot and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the water is absorbed. Let it stand for about 5 minutes, then mash with a fork.

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5 Simple Recipes Using Red Rice

1. Red Rice Pulao

Ingredients: Red rice, onions, tomatoes, green peas, carrots, beans, green chilies, ginger-garlic paste, cumin, and spices (turmeric, red chili, garam masala).

Method:
• Saute onions and then add ginger-garlic paste and spices in a little oil.
• Add the chopped vegetables and saute until slightly soft.
• Add soaked red rice, add water and cook till done.

2. Red Rice Khichdi

Ingredients: Red rice, yellow moong dal (yellow lentil pieces), turmeric, cumin, asafoetida and ghee.

Method:
• In a pot, heat ghee and add cumin seeds and asafoetida.
• Add washed rice and dal mixture.
• Add water, turmeric and salt. Cook until soft and mushy.

3. Red Rice Salad

Ingredients: Cooked Red Rice, cucumber, carrot, tomato, lemon juice, fresh cilantro, roasted peanuts, mustard and olive oil.

Method:
• Toss cooked red rice with chopped vegetables. 4
• Season with salt and lemon juice. In a small pan, add the mustard to the olive oil and pour over the salad.
• Garnish using roasted peanuts and fresh coriander.

Also read: The good, bad and ugly side of red rice, the new obsession for healthy eaters

4. Red Rice Biryani

Ingredients: Red rice, mixed vegetables (potatoes, peas, carrot, cauliflower), onions, tomatoes, curd, biryani masala, ginger-garlic paste and fresh mint & coriander leaves.

Method:
• Prepare the masala base with onions, tomatoes, ginger-garlic paste and curd.
• Add vegetables and partially cooked red rice.
• Layer with herbs and biryani masala. Cover and cook till done.

5. Red Rice Poha (Flatted Rice)

Ingredients: Red rice flakes, onions, green chillies, mustard seeds, curry leaves, turmeric and peanuts.

Method:
• Wash red rice flakes in water and strain.
• After the oil is heated, add mustard seeds, curry leaves and onions.
• Once onions become transparent, add groundnuts, turmeric and soaked poha.
• Cook until hot.