Black Forbidden Rice with Ginger and Toasted Sesame

In ancient China this rice was reserved for the imperial court and the Emperor. It was thought to have special properties and as such was thought to be only for him. I don't think it has any special properties other than being delicious. Trader Joe's now carries this rice and you should make it. just be aware while it is cooking it has very dark blue black color that leaches out from the rice and will stain wooden cooking spoons and such. But that aside the texture and flavor are tremendous.

Nutty and chewy with a slight crunch. Flavored with ginger and sesame oil and other flavors this rice delivers and it's visually stunning. Make this with Pepper Steak or Soy Glazed Red Short Ribs or serve with a Orange Chicken and Shrimp with cashews. It's also great at room temperature so make this this summer and serve it on the patio with your BBQ or on the buffet for your Summer party.

Black Forbidden Rice with Ginger and Toasted Sesame
( this recipe can easily be doubled or tripled)

Ingredients:

1 cup black rice
2 cups water
1 Tablespoon Ground Ginger
1 Tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
1 Tablespoon soy sauce
1 1/2 Tablespoons rice wine vinegar
2 teaspoons garlic powder
1 1/2 cups chopped scallions on the bias
2 tablespoons sesame seeds

Method:

Bring water to a boil and then add the rice.
Cook for 30 minutes or more until the water is gone
Remove from heat
Right after removing from heat stir in all ingredients except the sesame oil, scallions and sesame seeds.
Taste for seasoning and add salt if needed.
When cool add the sesame oil, scallions and sesame seeds reserving a few scallions and seeds for garnish.