What is Riceberry?
Riceberry is a crossbreed of Jao Hom Nin and Khao Dawk Mali 105. Although it is a brown rice, the grains are dark purple and have a long shape. When cooked, they become soft and aromatic. The smell is similar to that of black sticky rice. It typically sells for two to three times the price of white rice.
The cooking process is the same as with red rice. Use 1 1/2 cups of water to 1 cup of riceberry. If you have time, leave the rice soak in the water for an hour before cooking.
Where is Riceberry From?
Riceberry was created by the Rice Science Center at Kasetsart University in Bangkok. It is grown in the Northern and Northeastern regions of Thailand. Riceberry can be grown all year round but requires fertile soil and a cool climate. The wet season (from August to December) is the ideal time to plant.
The Health Benefits of Riceberry
Riceberry is rich in antioxidants, including beta-carotene, folic acid, tannin, Vitamin E, and zinc. It has three times the amount of iron as other varieties. Since it is low to moderate on the glycemic index, its starch turns to sugar slowly. If you’re suffering from diabetes and/or obesity, riceberry is still ok for you to eat. In fact, it is soft and fragrant enough to serve as a healthier substitute for white rice.
Next time I go to Thailand, I’ll be sure to look for Riceberry.
You can get it in the United States. Check out the Amazon links in this post.
I like eating rice dishes and this seems like a healthier alternative. Plus purple is my favorite color so I’d love to eat this pretty food!
That I have to try. I haven’t heard of rice berry before, or maybe I have seen it, I just didn’t know what it’s called. Diabetes runs in our family, so I guess we will have to switch from white rice to rice berry. Thanks for the information about its health benefits.
This is my first time hearing that there is such a thing as riceberry but will all the latest fads centered around super foods, its hard to know what is actually good for you and what isn’t. I like that it is rich in antioxidants and is high in iron. That is definitely good news!
Oh nice! This would be an additional healthy options for all. We also have this kind of rice version in our country and its far more nutritious compare to white rice.
Ricebery sounds like a very rich meal to have. This is my first time hearing about the health benefits. Good you shared this post.
Ha, yes! What IS riceberry? I love super foods, and I appreciate you letting me know about this one. So interesting!
I had never heard of riceberry before. I would really be interested in reading more about it. It sounds interesting.
I’ve never heard of riceberry but it sounds like a great product! I will be sure to look out for it in the future.
Wow that’s soooo expensive! But then again, with the nutrients that you need, it may be worth it, if we no longer have to buy vitamin supplements. 🙂