Beat the Monday ‘blues’ by indulging in this unique rice dish today

We all like to try different dishes every once in a while. So, how about indulging in a unique preparation today? Forget white, red, or black rice — now is the time to try blue rice! Yes, that’s the recipe we are going to share with you here. All thanks to blogger Pratima Pradhan, who shared the recipe for blue rice or Butterfly Pea Ghee Rice on Instagram.

But before we dive into the recipe, let’s understand more about the key ingredient — butterfly pea, scientifically referred to as Clitoria ternatea — which holds a paramount position in the rich cultural and medicinal heritage of Southeast Asia, spanning nations such as Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia.

Culturally, the butterfly pea integrates into culinary traditions across Southeast Asia, not only adding colour but also potential health benefits to dishes and beverages. “In Thai cuisine, for instance, it is said that butterfly pea flowers are brewed into the visually captivating ‘nam dok anchan’ tea, believed to offer health benefits alongside its aesthetic allure,” said Sweedal Trindade, chief dietician, PD Hinduja Hospital and MRC, Mahim.

Blue rice, coloured naturally by this flower, is healthier than rice flavored with artificial colours which can be harmful, shared Sushma PS, chief dietitian, Jindal Naturecure Institute. “Similarly, the naturally blue or purple rice from the Northeast or Thailand is an unpolished variety that retains a high fibre content, making it easy to digest and beneficial for metabolism,” said Sushma.

“utterfly pea boasts a robust nutritional profile, with high levels of flavonoids like anthocyanins contributing to its vibrant blue colour and potential health benefits. “These antioxidants play a pivotal role in combating oxidative stress and inflammation, potentially mitigating the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer,” said Trindade.

Here’s how to reduce inflammation (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

In addition to its nutritional prowess, “butterfly pea’s medicinal value is underscored by its anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, and antimicrobial properties, offering relief from conditions like arthritis and supporting overall immune health”, said Trindade.

Furthermore, its purported cognitive-enhancing properties hold promise in enhancing memory and cognitive function, with emerging research suggesting neuroprotective effects, added Trindade.

Ghee added in the recipe is rich in vitamins A, E, and D, which can aid in digestion and improve nutrient absorption. “Basmati rice is famous for its aromatic scent and fluffy texture. It is a great source of energy, protein, and carbohydrates,” said Sushma, adding that cashews are a good source of protein and essential minerals, while raisins offer natural sweetness and are packed with iron, potassium, and antioxidants.

Blue rice ingredients

20 pieces – Butterfly pea flower
2tbsp – Ghee
Khada masala
1tbsp – Salt
1 cup – Basmati rice
3 cups – Water
10 – Cashews
10  – Raisins
1 cup – Chopped onions
2  – Bay leaves
2 – Chillies, chopped

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Pratima Pradhan (@thecookingamma)

Method to prepare blue rice

*Wash the blue pea flowers.
*Take out the stalk
*In a clay pot, add rice and wash it. Soak for 15 minutes.
*In a clay pot, add water and the flowers. Boil. Take out the flowers, which have released its colour. Add washed rice.
*Cover and cook the blue rice. Turn off the flame once cooked.
*Add ghee.
*add ghee, khada masala, bay leaves, cashews, raisins, onions, chillies, and asafoetida in a different clay pot. Now add the prepared rice.
*Enjoy!

Disclaimer: The copyright of this article belongs to the original author. Reposting this article is solely for the purpose of information dissemination and does not constitute any investment advice. If there is any infringement, please contact us immediately. We will make corrections or deletions as necessary. Thank you.