Discover the Power of Exotic Black Rice: 20 Recipes to Spice Up Your Meals!
In recent years, black rice has gained popularity due to its numerous health benefits and unique flavor profile. This ancient grain is not only rich in antioxidants and fiber but also offers a nutty and slightly sweet taste that pairs well with a wide range of ingredients. From savory stir-fries to sweet desserts, black rice can be used as a base for countless dishes. In this article, we’ll explore 20 exotic black rice recipes that will take your meals to the next level.
Whether you’re looking for something light and refreshing or hearty and comforting, our selection has got you covered. From the Caribbean-inspired Black Rice Salad with Mango and Coconut to the indulgent Black Rice Chocolate Chia Pudding, each recipe is carefully crafted to showcase the versatility of black rice.
So, let’s dive in and explore the world of exotic black rice recipes!
Black Rice Salad with Mango and Coconut
This vibrant salad combines the nutty flavor of black rice with the sweetness of mango and the creaminess of coconut, making it a perfect side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black rice
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked black rice, diced mango, and shredded coconut.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and toss to coat.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the salad and season with salt to taste.
4. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (assuming cooked black rice is used)
Garlic Butter Black Rice with Shrimp
A flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the nutty taste of black rice with succulent shrimp, all tied together with a rich garlic butter sauce.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup black rice
• 2 cups water or vegetable broth
• 4 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the black rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water or broth. Drain and set aside.
2. In a skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In a small saucepan, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter over low heat. Stir in the cooked garlic and sauté for an additional minute.
5. To combine, place the cooked black rice on a plate or bowl, top with the shrimp, and spoon the garlic butter sauce over the top. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Black Rice Pudding with Cardamom and Pistachios
This creamy pudding combines the nutty flavor of black rice with the warm, spicy aroma of cardamom and the crunch of pistachios. Perfect for a unique dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup black rice
– 3 cups water or plant-based milk (cow’s milk works too)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup chopped pistachios
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Rinse the black rice and soak it in water or plant-based milk for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and rinse the rice again.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine the drained rice, cardamom, sugar, and salt.
4. Add 3 cups of water or plant-based milk to the saucepan and bring to a boil over high heat.
5. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the liquid has been absorbed and the rice is creamy.
6. Stir in the chopped pistachios and melted butter.
7. Serve warm or chilled.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Black Rice Stir-Fry with Vegetables
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of black rice with a medley of colorful vegetables and a kick of heat from Korean chili flakes. Perfect as a quick weeknight dinner or lunchbox filler.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black rice
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 teaspoon Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add bell peppers and broccoli; stir-fry for 4-5 minutes or until tender-crisp.
4. Stir in chili flakes and cooked black rice.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Black Rice Sushi Rolls with Avocado and Cucumber
Experience the unique flavor of black rice sushi rolls paired with creamy avocado and refreshing cucumber.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black rice
– 1/2 cup short-grain white rice
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 ripe avocado, sliced
– 1/2 cucumber, sliced
– 1 sheet of nori seaweed
– Rice vinegar (for seasoning)
Instructions:
1. Cook the black rice according to package instructions. Allow it to cool.
2. Mix the cooked white rice with water and a pinch of salt. Shape into small balls.
3. Lay a sheet of nori seaweed flat. Spread a thin layer of black rice onto the seaweed, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
4. Place a few pieces of avocado and cucumber in the middle of the rice.
5. Roll the sushi using gentle pressure. Slice into bite-sized pieces.
6. Serve with soy sauce and wasabi, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Coconut Milk Black Rice with Grilled Pineapple
Elevate your meal game with this sweet and savory fusion of coconut milk-infused black rice and caramelized grilled pineapple. This unique dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup black rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 ripe pineapple, cut into wedges
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse black rice and cook according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine coconut milk, sugar, and salt. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, whisking occasionally.
3. Once the mixture thickens slightly, stir in cooked black rice until well combined.
4. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Butter pineapple wedges and grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until caramelized.
5. Serve grilled pineapple on top of coconut milk black rice, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Black Rice and Chickpea Buddha Bowl
This nutritious bowl combines the nutty flavor of black rice with the creamy texture of chickpeas, all wrapped up in a delicious and easy-to-make package.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup black rice
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 can chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt to taste
– Optional: sliced avocado, diced tomatoes, pickled ginger
Instructions:
1. Cook the black rice according to package instructions using water or broth.
2. In a separate pan, heat the olive oil and sauté the chickpeas with soy sauce and honey until well coated.
3. Combine cooked black rice and chickpea mixture in a bowl.
4. Garnish with chopped cilantro and any desired toppings (avocado, tomatoes, pickled ginger).
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Black Rice Risotto with Mushrooms and Thyme
This creamy risotto combines the nutty flavor of black rice with earthy mushrooms and a hint of thyme, perfect for a cozy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio black rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (e.g. cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, 3-4 minutes.
2. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
3. Add black rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute.
4. Warm broth in a separate pot. Add 1/2 cup broth to rice mixture; stir until absorbed. Repeat process, adding broth in 1/2 cup increments, until rice is cooked and creamy (about 20-25 minutes).
5. Stir in thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Black Rice Porridge with Dates and Almonds
Black rice porridge is a traditional Asian comfort food that’s easy to make and packed with nutritious ingredients. This recipe adds natural sweetness from dates and crunch from almonds for a delightful breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup black rice
– 4 cups water
– 2 pitted Medjool dates, sliced
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Rinse the black rice and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and rinse the rice again. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and 4 cups of fresh water.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the porridge is creamy and tender.
4. Stir in sliced dates and almonds. If desired, add honey and salt to taste.
5. Serve warm, garnished with additional almonds if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Black Rice Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the nutty taste of black rice with the sweetness of bell peppers. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
– 1 cup cooked black rice
– 1/2 cup ground beef or turkey
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the black rice according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground meat and onion until browned. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the meat mixture, followed by a spoonful of cooked black rice.
5. Place peppers in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Black Rice and Salmon Poke Bowl
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of black rice with the freshness of salmon poke, creating a nutritious and flavorful bowl perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. With only a few ingredients and simple preparation, you’ll be enjoying this delicious meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup black rice
– 2 cups water
– 6 oz sashimi-grade salmon, cut into small pieces
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced green onions, sliced avocado, pickled ginger
Instructions:
1. Cook black rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a separate bowl, combine salmon pieces with soy sauce, sesame oil, and grated ginger. Mix well.
3. Once rice is cooked, fluff with fork and transfer to a serving bowl.
4. Top rice with salmon poke mixture, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Add desired toppings (optional).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Black Rice Congee with Ginger and Scallions
This recipe combines the soothing warmth of congee with the invigorating flavors of ginger and scallions, perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup black rice
– 4 cups water
– 2 inches fresh ginger, sliced
– 2 scallions, thinly sliced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the black rice and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and rinse the rice again. In a medium pot, combine the rice and 4 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and creamy.
3. Add the sliced ginger and scallions to the congee. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Season with soy sauce (if using) and salt to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Black Rice Paella with Chorizo and Peas
Experience the rich flavors of Spain with this innovative twist on traditional paella, featuring black rice and spicy chorizo.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup black rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup chorizo, sliced
– 1/2 cup frozen peas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large paella pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the chorizo; cook until browned, about 2 minutes.
4. Add the black rice, broth, and peas. Stir to combine.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Black Rice Tabbouleh with Herbs and Lemon
This recipe takes the traditional tabbouleh salad to new heights by substituting white rice with nutrient-rich black rice. The addition of bright, citrusy lemon juice and fragrant herbs like parsley and cilantro creates a delightful harmony of flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black rice
– 2 cups chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked black rice, parsley, cilantro, and scallions.
2. Squeeze the lemon juice over the mixture and toss to coat.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None (black rice can be cooked ahead of time)
Black Rice and Lentil Soup with Turmeric
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, featuring black rice, lentils, and the warmth of turmeric. It’s an ideal recipe for a chilly evening or a quick lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup black rice
– 1 cup red or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the black rice in a fine-mesh strainer and cook according to package instructions.
2. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the turmeric and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, and cooked black rice to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Black Rice Pancakes with Banana and Honey
Start your day with a sweet and satisfying breakfast that combines the nutty flavor of black rice with the natural sweetness of banana and honey. These fluffy pancakes are a unique twist on traditional breakfast fare.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black rice
– 2 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together cooked black rice, mashed banana, honey, flour, eggs, baking powder, and salt until smooth.
3. Gradually add milk while whisking until batter is free of lumps.
4. Drop 1/4 cupfuls of batter onto the skillet or griddle.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
6. Serve warm with additional honey and sliced banana, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Black Rice Noodles with Peanut Sauce
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of black rice noodles with the creamy richness of peanut sauce, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create a flavorful dish that’s both healthy and delicious.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup black rice noodles
– 2 tablespoons peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook black rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes (if using). Blend until smooth.
3. Add garlic to the peanut sauce mixture and blend until well combined.
4. Toss cooked noodles with the peanut sauce. Garnish with chopped scallions.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Black Rice and Kale Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
This recipe is a flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed mushrooms, combining the earthy taste of portobellos with the nutty flavor of black rice and the bitterness of kale.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms
– 1 cup cooked black rice
– 2 cups chopped kale, stems removed
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 clove garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Clean the mushrooms by wiping them with a damp cloth.
3. In a bowl, mix together cooked black rice, chopped kale, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Season with salt, pepper, and optional garlic.
4. Stuff each mushroom cap with the rice-kale mixture, dividing it evenly among the four caps.
5. Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Black Rice Jambalaya with Andouille Sausage
A twist on the classic Creole dish, this black rice jambalaya combines the earthy flavors of dark rice with spicy Andouille sausage and a medley of colorful vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked black rice
– 2 lbs Andouille sausage, sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Cook black rice according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add cooked sausage back into the skillet with the vegetables. Stir in diced tomatoes, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Serve jambalaya over cooked black rice.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Black Rice Chocolate Chia Pudding
This decadent dessert combines the nutty flavor of black rice with the richness of dark chocolate, all wrapped up in a nutritious package. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while still being mindful of what you eat.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup cooked black rice
– 1/4 cup chia seeds
– 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: chocolate chips or shavings for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together chia seeds, almond milk, and honey. Let it sit for 5 minutes to allow the chia seeds to absorb the liquid.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together cooked black rice, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
3. Add the chia seed mixture to the black rice mixture and stir until smooth.
4. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the pudding to set.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with chocolate chips or shavings if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (or overnight)
Summary
Get ready to elevate your meal game with these 20 exotic black rice recipes! From sweet treats like Black Rice Pudding with Cardamom and Pistachios, to savory dishes like Garlic Butter Black Rice with Shrimp, there’s something for everyone. Explore international flavors with recipes like Spicy Black Rice Stir-Fry with Vegetables, Coconut Milk Black Rice with Grilled Pineapple, or try your hand at making Black Rice Sushi Rolls with Avocado and Cucumber. Whether you’re in the mood for something healthy and light or a hearty and satisfying meal, these recipes are sure to inspire.