Forbidden Rice

Don't be afraid of the dark

by Julia Hanna

noshing & sipping

El Pelón salsa, June 15 Blue Ribbon BBQ's half-and-half, May 25 Boston Creme muffin, May 18 Candy-cap oil, May 11

Once reserved for the emperor's table alone, "forbidden rice" has made its way through the ages down to more-democratic kitchens. With its glossy purple-black sheen, toothsome texture, and nutty flavor, it's no wonder the higher-ups in China wanted to keep this one for themselves. Easily prepared in 30 minutes (sorry, this isn't Minute Rice), Forbidden Rice could take the place of ho-hum potatoes at your next dinner party. You could also use it to whip up a risotto noir, or a very adult-looking rice pudding. Available in bulk for $3.49 a pound at Bread & Circus, or in 15-ounce packages from Lotus Foods, at Harvest Co-op and Formaggio Kitchen.

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