Description
Learn how to cook black rice (Forbidden Rice) three easy ways—stovetop, Instant Pot, or as a flavorful pilaf! Nutty, chewy, and naturally gluten-free, it’s perfect for healthy grain bowls, salads, side dishes, and easy black rice recipes.
Ingredients
Stovetop:
- 1 cup forbidden black rice
- 6 cups water
- generous pinch salt
Instant Pot:
- 1 cup forbidden black rice, rinsed
- 1 cup water
- pinch salt
Black Rice Pilaf:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil ( or butter)
- 1 shallot - chopped
- 1 1/2 cups forbidden black rice
- 1 Tablespoon fresh thyme ( or 1 teaspoon dry)
- 2 1/2 cups plus 1 tablespoon broth or stock ( veggie or chicken)
- 1 teaspoon granulated garlic powder
- 1 bay leaf
- pinch salt and pepper
- 1/3 cup slivered almonds ( save 2 tablespoons for garnish)
- Garnish: 1-2 tablespoons Italian parsley
Instructions
Stove Top Method: Cook like pasta! Bring water and rice to a boil; let simmer uncovered until tender, about 20-30 minutes. Drain and fluff. Season!
Instant Pot: Place equal parts water and black rice in the instant pot. Add a pinch of salt. Set pressure to 18 minutes on high. Let naturally release for at least 10 minutes.
Black Rice Pilaf: Heat oil in a 10-inch skillet or braiser over medium heat and add the shallots, stirring until golden and fragrant, about 4 -5 minutes. Add the rice and thyme, and sauté for 3-4 minutes. Add stock, garlic, bay leaf, salt, and pepper, and 1/2 the almonds. Bring to a simmer, stirring. Cover, turn heat to low, and cook 25-30 minutes or until all the liquid has evaporated and the rice is tender. Garnish with remaining almonds and parsley.
Notes
The stovetop method is fastest. 20-25 minutes.
The Instant Pot is the least hands-on. 35-45 minutes.
The pilaf has the most flavor- great for entertaining!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ¾ cup pilaf
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 0.5 g
- Sodium: 394 mg
- Fat: 10.1 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 36.5 g
- Fiber: 2.2 g
- Protein: 5.8 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
