Black Rice Pancakes – A Nutrient-Packed Delight
A Bold Experiment with Black Rice & Urad Dal
These Black Rice Pancakes were born out of curiosity—to see how the deep, rich color of black rice would blend with white urad dal (black-skinned mung bean). The result? Sensational—a strikingly dark pancake with a unique, nutty flavor.
The Superfood Power of Black Rice
Black rice owes its deep hue to anthocyanins, the same powerful antioxidants found in blackberries, acai berries, and purple-hued fruits and vegetables. These compounds provide numerous health benefits, including:
✔ Slowing cell aging
✔ Reducing inflammation
✔ Enhancing eyesight and brain function
✔ Improving cardiovascular health
✔ Stabilizing blood sugar levels
Black Rice – The Emperor’s Superfood
In ancient China, black rice was believed to nourish the kidneys, stomach, and liver. Once cooked, its deep black grains turn a stunning dark purple, thanks to its exceptionally high anthocyanin concentration.
Historically, black rice was known as “Emperor’s Rice”, reserved exclusively for the Chinese emperor and nobility, as it was thought to promote health and longevity. The local population was forbidden from cultivating it, earning it the name “Forbidden Rice.”
Once seen as mere livestock feed in India and East Asia, black rice has since gained global recognition as a nutrient-dense superfood.
Cooking & Enjoying Black Rice
For those unfamiliar with black rice, its texture is naturally sticky and glutinous, rather than light and fluffy like basmati or jasmine rice. Inspired by its bold color and rich flavor, I decided to experiment by making pancakes—a delightful twist on a traditional dish.
✔ Black rice can be cooked like regular rice, but expect a more chewy, hearty texture.
✔ It’s great for pancakes, porridges, and desserts, offering a nutritious and flavorful alternative.
✔ I love making black rice pancakes for breakfast or snack time whenever I crave something unique and wholesome.
Black Rice in Ayurveda
In Ayurveda, black rice—known as Njavara—is considered one of the most powerful medicinal grains, particularly beneficial during the monsoon months of July and August. Traditionally, it has been used in Ayurvedic treatments to support:
✔ Eye health
✔ Nerve function
✔ Muscle strength
✔ Panchakarma therapy for holistic healing
Final Thoughts
There are several varieties of black rice across Asia, and in China, it remains a highly valued grain. If you’re feeling adventurous, try plain urad dal pancakes with your favorite toppings—or go for the bold and nutritious black rice version.
If you give it a try, let me know what you think!
Now, let’s dive into the recipe:
Black Rice Urad Dal Pancake
Black rice is loaded with nutrition, making it a healthier, gluten-free choice. A simple and comforting breakfast perfect for both kids and adults.
Ingredients
- 1 cup black rice soaked for 4 hours
- 1 cup urad dal soaked for 4 hours
- 1/2 cup coconut oil
- 1 cup rice syrup
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups blueberries for filling and garnish
- 1/2 cup pineapple puree for filling
Instructions
Soak urad dal and black rice separately in two bowls of water overnight.
Blend the soaked urad dal and black rice separately until smooth, then gently mix the two batters together the next morning.
Add the coconut oil and mix thoroughly.
Heat a skillet over medium heat and use a ladle to pour a small amount of batter onto the skillet.
Using a circular motion, spread the batter evenly. For this dessert, pour only half a ladle per pancake to achieve a small and fluffy texture.
For filling and garnish, use pineapple puree and blueberries.
Finish by making medium-sized pancakes, garnishing each with blueberries, and drizzling rice syrup over them.
Nutrition
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591.8 Calories
-
106.6g Carbohydrates
-
0.0mg Cholesterol
-
18.2g Fat
-
4.0g Fiber
-
8.3g Protein
-
300.0mg Sodium
-
0.0g Trans fat
Notes
You can serve the pancakes with almond or coconut milk.
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