Organic red rice

Organic red rice
Traditionally grown and consumed in parts of Asia, including India, Bhutan and Thailand, red rice has long been appreciated for its health benefits and earthy, nutty flavour. It has been used in Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine for its purported digestive and cardiovascular benefits.
From an Ayurvedic perspective, red rice is considered to be highly beneficial to health due to its natural, unprocessed form and its nutrient-rich profile. It is considered tridoshic, meaning that when properly prepared it can help balance all three doshas (Vata, Pita and Kapha). Red rice is particularly valued for its high fibre content and its ability to support digestion and remove toxins.

Recently, red rice has been gaining popularity for its potential health benefits.
Red rice is a whole grain rice. The high fibre content potentially aids digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight by keeping you fuller for longer.
Red rice is a treasure trove of nutrients and vitamins that are important for energy production and brain health.

Preparation
Red rice is cooked in a similar way to other types of rice:
Rinse 1 cup of red rice under cold water until the water is clear;
Soak the rice for 3 hours. (or overnight), which can help to reduce the cooking time and give a better result (softer rice);
Add the washed rice to cold water in a ratio of 1:2.5 or 1:3, depending on the texture you want (if you want porridge, you can add more water);
Once it boils, reduce the heat, cover the pot and let it simmer for 40 to 50 minutes, or until the rice is soft. The cooking time is shorter in the pressure cooker, about 20 minutes;
When the rice is cooked, leave the pot covered for 10 minutes, then shake with a fork before serving.

Recipes

Red rice salad
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked red rice
- 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
- 1 cucumber, Diced
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup cheese to taste (chopped)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
In a large bowl, mix together the cooked red rice, Cherry tomatoes, cucumber, onion and cheese.
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt and pepper.
Pour the dressing on top of the salad and stir.
Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Red rice porridge
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked red rice
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup coconut drink/cream
- 1 tbsp. 1 cup of raisins or your favourite sweetener to taste
- Vanilla extract or powder to taste (optional)
- Ceylon cinnamon powder to taste (optional)
- Pinch of salt
Nuts for decoration.
In a saucepan, combine the cooked red rice, coconut milk, sweetener, vanilla powder, cinnamon powder, salt.
Bring to the boil, then reduce the heat and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring until the mixture thickens to a pudding consistency.
Serve warm or chilled, garnished with nuts.

Let food be medicine!