Though those of us that read this blog, and/or know me personally, you know that I am always annoyed with Dr. Oz for adding more confusion to already confusing topics regarding health/diet/exercise. Still, I record his show and skim through them because often there is an interesting tidbit that I would like to further investigate. Recently, he introduced me to black rice, also known as “forbidden” rice. Intrigued by the amount of antioxidants in it, as well as the amount of protein it packs, I tried some. It cooks up to look similar to a bowl of black beans, so it would be weird, I think, to mix it with black beans, so instead I cooked up some mushrooms, onions and peppers and ate them on top of the rice. I added a little saracha (we add that to lots of foods) to kick up the spice and taste and it was really good.
One serving of black rice (1/4 cup) provides 5 grams of protein, 2 grams of fiber, 160 calories (no sodium, sugar or cholesterol) and the same amount of antioxidants as a single serving of blueberries. I made enough to store in the fridge and sprinkle on top of salads and combine with other dishes through the week.
Use your black rice any of the ways you would use any other rice. Black just might be the new brown, around this house!
Tonight is the last taped episode of Biggest Losers. 2 more contestants will get eliminated leaving the final 3. As always, I can hardly wait!!!
