Purple Thai Rice

Purple Thai rice is a variety of black rice (Oryza sativa) that turns a deep, vibrant purple when cooked.

• Color: The uncooked grains are black, but they release their high anthocyanin content during cooking, which dyes the surrounding white rice a distinct deep purple.
• Flavor: It has a nutty and mildly sweet flavor, often described as having an earthy or buttery popcorn-like aroma.
• Texture: Depending on the specific variety, it can range from a chewy texture (similar to brown rice) to a glutinous, sticky texture. Thai purple rice is often a sticky or sweet rice variety.
• Nutrition: Considered a “superfood,” it is higher in antioxidants, fiber, protein, and iron than white rice. Its high fiber content also gives it a lower glycemic index.
• Other names: It is also known as “forbidden rice” because in ancient China, it was reserved exclusively for the emperor and royal family. Other names include Emperor’s Rice and Black Rice.