Creating purple brown rice flour at home is a straightforward process that allows you to enjoy its rich, nutty flavor and numerous health benefits. This type of flour is perfect for gluten-free baking and adds a unique color to your dishes
Purple brown rice flour is a nutritious and gluten-free alternative to regular flour, packed with antioxidants and essential nutrients. Creating this vibrant flour at home is a simple and rewarding process that allows you to control the quality and purity of the final product. In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to make purple brown rice flour at home easily and efficiently.
Ingredients: 2 cups of purple brown rice or 3 kilograms (also known as black rice or forbidden rice)
Equipment
- High-speed blender or grain mill
- Fine mesh strainer or flour sifter
- Large bowl
Instructions
Preparation of Rice:
- Start by thoroughly rinsing the purple brown rice under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris in 15 min
- Spread the rinsed rice out on a clean kitchen towel or a layer of paper towels and allow it to air dry completely. This may take a few hours or overnight. The rice needs to be completely dry to grind into a fine powder.
- Roast or use a food processor to cook purple brown rice grains only 30 mins
Grinding the purple brown rice:
- After the roasted purple brown rice, place it in the blender or grain mill inox. If you’re using a blender, you may need to do this in batches depending on the size of your blender.
- Blend or grind the rice on the highest setting for 30 seconds to 1 minute or until you achieve a fine, powdery flour. The time required may vary based on the power of your blender or mill.
Sifting the Flour:
- Place the fine mesh strainer or flour sifter over a large bowl and pour the ground rice into it.
- Sift the flour to remove any large particles or unground grains. These can be re-ground or saved for other recipes where a coarser texture is desired.
Tips for Success
- Consistency is Key: Achieving a fine, powdery texture is crucial for most baking recipes. If your flour is too coarse, it may result in gritty-textured baked goods.
- Batch Size: Work in small batches to ensure that the rice grinds evenly. This is particularly important if using a blender, as overloading it can result in unevenly ground flour.
- Versatility: Purple brown rice flour can replace all or part of traditional wheat flour in many recipes. However, since it lacks gluten, consider combining it with other gluten-free flours or xanthan gum to improve the texture of baked goods.
What is a purple brown rice flour?
Purple brown rice flour is made from ground purple brown rice, also known as black rice or forbidden rice, which is a special variety of rice that has a deep purple, almost black color. The distinctive color of this rice, and consequently its flour, comes from its high content of anthocyanins, which are powerful antioxidants. These antioxidants are the same compounds found in other deeply colored foods like blueberries and red cabbage, contributing to their health benefits.
This type of rice flour is a whole grain flour, meaning it is made from the entire grain including the bran, germ, and endosperm. This results in a flour that is more nutritious than white rice flour, which is made from rice that has had the bran and germ removed. Purple brown rice flour retains the natural nutrients of the rice, including fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals.
Top 8 purple brown rice flour benefits for everybody?
Purple brown rice flour, derived from the whole grains of purple or black rice, offers a unique combination of nutritional benefits and functional properties, making it a valuable addition to a healthy diet. Here are some of the key benefits of incorporating purple brown rice flour into your meals:
Rich in Antioxidants
Anthocyanins: Purple brown rice is high in anthocyanins, the same type of antioxidants found in dark berries like blueberries and blackberries. These compounds are known for their ability to fight free radicals, reducing oxidative stress and potentially lowering the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers.
Naturally Gluten-Free
Celiac-Friendly: For individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, purple brown rice flour offers a safe, gluten-free alternative to wheat flour, allowing for the preparation of gluten-free baked goods, coatings, and thickeners without triggering adverse health effects.
Nutrient-Dense
- Whole Grain Goodness: Being a whole grain flour, it retains the bran, germ, and endosperm of the rice, making it richer in nutrients compared to white rice flour. It contains essential vitamins and minerals, including B vitamins, iron, magnesium, and zinc.
- Dietary Fiber: High in dietary fiber, purple brown rice flour can aid in digestion and promote a feeling of fullness, which is beneficial for weight management and gastrointestinal health.
Heart Health
Reducing Cholesterol: The fiber content in purple brown rice flour can help in lowering cholesterol levels, contributing to heart health. Additionally, the presence of antioxidants can aid in preventing the formation of atherosclerotic plaques in the arteries.
Anti-inflammatory Properties
Chronic Disease Prevention: The antioxidants and phytonutrients in purple brown rice flour have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help in reducing the risk of inflammation-related conditions, such as arthritis and other chronic diseases.
Blood Sugar Regulation
Low Glycemic Index: Compared to white rice flour, purple brown rice flour has a lower glycemic index, meaning it causes a slower rise in blood sugar levels. This makes it a better choice for people with diabetes or those looking to manage their blood sugar levels.
Versatile Culinary Uses
Diverse Applications: Beyond its health benefits, purple brown rice flour is versatile in cooking and baking. It can be used to make gluten-free bread, cakes, and noodles, as well as to thicken soups and sauces, offering a slightly nutty flavor and enriching dishes with its vibrant purple hue.
Sustainable Option
Eco-Friendly: Cultivating purple brown rice can be a part of sustainable farming practices. By choosing products made from such grains, consumers can support agricultural diversity and sustainability.
Incorporating purple brown rice flour into your diet not only adds a nutritional boost but also introduces an aesthetic appeal to your dishes with its unique color. Whether you’re baking, thickening sauces, or creating gluten-free meals, purple brown rice flour is a healthful and versatile ingredient to explore.
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What to eat with brown purple rice recipes?
Purple brown rice, also known as forbidden rice, offers a unique combination of nutty flavor, chewy texture, and nutritional benefits, making it an excellent base for a variety of dishes. Here are 5 some recipes that perfectly complement purple brown rice, creating delicious and balanced meals.
- Grilled Vegetable and Purple Brown Rice Salad
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked purple brown rice
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (zucchini, bell peppers, eggplant)
- ¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (basil, parsley) for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Slice vegetables into thick pieces, brush with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
- Grill vegetables until tender and slightly charred.
- In a large bowl, mix the grilled vegetables with cooked purple brown rice.
- Add crumbled feta cheese.
- Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Toss to combine.
- Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
2. Purple Brown Rice and Chicken Stir-Fry
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked purple brown rice
- 2 chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (broccoli, carrots, bell peppers)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
- Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add garlic and ginger, sauté for a minute until fragrant.
- Add chicken slices and cook until no longer pink.
- Add vegetables and stir-fry until just tender.
- Stir in soy sauce and cooked purple brown rice, mixing well.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Garnish with sesame seeds before serving.
3. Coconut Curry with Purple Brown Rice
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked purple brown rice
- 1 can coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons curry powder
- 1 lb mixed vegetables (potatoes, peas, carrots)
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon oil
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
4. Purple Brown Rice Sushi Rolls
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked purple brown rice, cooled
- 4 sheets nori (seaweed)
- ½ cucumber, julienned
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1 carrot, julienned
- Soy sauce, for serving
- Wasabi and pickled ginger, for serving
Instructions:
- Place a nori sheet on a bamboo sushi mat.
- Spread a thin layer of purple brown rice over the nori, leaving a small margin at the top.
- Arrange cucumber, avocado, and carrot slices in a line at the bottom of the rice.
- Roll the sushi tightly using the bamboo mat, sealing the edge with a little water.
- Slice the roll into 6-8 pieces.
- Serve with soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger.
5. Purple Brown Rice Breakfast Bowl
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked purple brown rice, warmed
- ½ cup almond milk
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- Fresh fruits (berries, banana slices)
- Nuts and seeds (almonds, chia seeds) for topping
Instructions:
- In a bowl, mix warm purple brown rice with almond milk, maple syrup, and cinnamon.
- Top with fresh fruits, nuts, and seeds.
- Serve warm for a nutritious breakfast.
- These recipes showcase the versatility of purple brown rice, making it easy to incorporate this nutritious grain into your diet across a variety of meals, from breakfast to dinner.
Incorporating a variety of vegetables and proteins with purple brown rice not only ensures a balanced diet but also allows you to explore a wide range of flavors and textures. Whether you’re aiming for a simple and nutritious meal or an elaborate and visually stunning dish, purple brown rice offers endless possibilities.
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Can a diabetic drinking purple brown rice flour?
Yes, individuals with diabetes can incorporate purple brown rice flour into their diet, but it should be done with consideration of its carbohydrate content and its effect on blood sugar levels. Purple brown rice, from which the flour is made, is a whole grain that is rich in nutrients, including fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It also contains anthocyanins, which are antioxidants that give the rice its characteristic purple color and may offer health benefits, including potential anti-inflammatory and anti-diabetic effects.
Factors to Consider for Diabetics
Low Glycemic Index (GI): Whole grains like purple brown rice generally have a lower GI compared to refined grains, meaning they cause a slower rise in blood glucose levels. However, the processing of whole grains into flour can increase the GI, so it’s important for diabetics to monitor their blood sugar response when consuming products made with purple brown rice flour.
- Fiber Content: The fiber in purple brown rice flour can help slow the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream, contributing to more stable blood sugar levels. Including fiber-rich foods in the diet is beneficial for individuals with diabetes.
- Portion Control: As with any food, portion sizes matter. It’s important to account for the carbohydrate content of purple brown rice flour in the context of your overall meal plan and daily carbohydrate targets.
- Recipe Consideration: When using purple brown rice flour in recipes, consider pairing it with other ingredients that have a low GI and are high in fiber, protein, and healthy fats to further minimize blood sugar spikes. For example, using the flour in recipes with nuts, seeds, or low-carbohydrate vegetables can enhance the nutritional profile of the meal or snack.
Recommendations
For individuals with diabetes looking to include purple brown rice flour in their diet, it’s advisable to:
- Consult with a Healthcare Professional: Before making significant changes to your diet, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional or a dietitian. They can provide personalized advice based on your current health status, medication, and nutritional needs.
- Monitor Blood Sugar Levels: If you’re experimenting with purple brown rice flour in your diet, keep an eye on your blood sugar levels to see how your body responds. This will help you determine the appropriate portion sizes and frequency of consumption.
- Balance Your Diet: Ensure that your overall diet is balanced and includes a variety of nutrients. This helps in managing diabetes more effectively and supports overall health.
In summary, purple brown rice flour can be a nutritious addition to a diabetic diet when used judiciously and in moderation, as part of a balanced diet that prioritizes low glycemic index foods and maintains overall carbohydrate intake within individualized targets.
Where to buy purple brown rice flour in the US?
In the United States, purple brown rice flour might not be as readily available as more common types of flour, but it is still accessible through various channels. Here are some options where you can look for purple brown rice flour:
- Health Food Stores: Many health food stores and natural grocery stores carry a wide range of specialty flours, including purple brown rice flour. Stores like Whole Foods Market, Sprouts Farmers Market, and local health food shops are good places to start.
- Asian Markets: Since purple brown rice (also known as black rice or forbidden rice) is commonly used in Asian cuisines, Asian grocery stores might stock flour made from this nutritious grain. Even if they primarily sell the rice whole, some might carry the flour or be able to direct you to a supplier.
- Online Retailers: Online shopping offers a convenient way to find specialty products like purple brown rice flour. Websites such as Amazon, Thrive Market, and Bob’s Red Mill (which specializes in a variety of flours) are likely to have it. Additionally, searching for organic or specialty food online stores can yield more sources.
- Specialty Food Stores: Stores that focus on gluten-free, organic, or specialty diets are more likely to carry purple brown rice flour. These stores often stock a variety of alternative flours catering to specific dietary needs.
- Bulk Food Stores: Some bulk food stores allow you to purchase exactly the amount you need, reducing waste and sometimes costs. These stores might offer purple brown rice flour among their bulk goods.
- Direct from Farmers or Producers: In some cases, you might be able to buy purple brown rice flour directly from farmers or producers who specialize in growing purple brown rice. This might be more common at local farmers’ markets or through online platforms that connect consumers with local farmers.
Tips for Buying
- Check the Label: Ensure that the product is indeed made from purple brown rice and not just colored brown rice flour. The nutritional benefits differ significantly.
- Organic Options: If you prefer organic products, look for a certification label to ensure the flour meets organic standards.
- Storage: Once purchased, store your purple brown rice flour in a cool, dry place, or refrigerate it to extend its shelf life.
- Finding purple brown rice flour may require a bit of searching, but the effort can be well worth it for the unique flavor, color, and nutritional benefits it adds to your cooking and baking.
Conclusion
Making purple brown rice flour at home is a simple and rewarding process. Not only does it allow you to control the quality and fineness of the flour, but it also opens up a world of culinary possibilities. From bread and cakes to thickening sauces, this gluten-free flour is as versatile as it is nutritious. Give it a try and enjoy the unique flavor and health benefits it brings to your kitchen creations.
Making your own purple brown rice flour at home instantly is an easy and rewarding process that allows you to incorporate this nutritious ingredient into various recipes. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can enjoy the benefits of this gluten-free alternative while having complete control over the quality and purity of the final product. Experiment with the homemade purple brown rice flour in a range of baked goods, such as bread, pancakes, or pastries, and savor the delightful flavors and vibrant colors it brings to your culinary creations.