Discover the vibrant flavors of Thailand with this mouthwatering Thai Black Rice Salad! Packed with nutritious ingredients and a zesty dressing, this salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delightful explosion of taste in every bite. Whether you're looking for a refreshing side dish or a light main course, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. With just a few simple steps, you can create a colorful and healthy dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Dive into this culinary adventure and elevate your dining experience with the exotic taste of black rice!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Thai
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup black rice
- 2 cups water
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 carrot, shredded
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 3 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Chili flakes to taste
Instructions
- Rinse the black rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear, removing excess starch.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed black rice with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes until rice is tender and water is absorbed.
- While the rice is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Dice the red bell pepper into small, uniform cubes and shred the carrot using a box grater or julienne peeler.
- In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, fish sauce, and sugar to create the dressing. Mix until the sugar is completely dissolved.
- Once the rice is cooked, remove from heat and let it cool for 10 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled black rice, diced red bell pepper, shredded carrot, and chopped cilantro.
- Pour the prepared dressing over the rice mixture and gently toss to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Sprinkle chili flakes to taste, adjusting the heat level according to preference.
- Cover and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to allow flavors to meld together before serving.
- Garnish with additional fresh cilantro leaves and serve chilled or at room temperature.
Tips
- Rinse the Rice: Make sure to rinse the black rice thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch, which helps achieve a fluffier texture.
- Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the rice while it simmers; cooking times can vary slightly depending on the brand of black rice. It should be tender but still have a slight bite.
- Chill for Flavor: Allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes after mixing in the dressing. This step enhances the flavors and makes the salad even more refreshing.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add other colorful vegetables like cucumber or cherry tomatoes for extra crunch and flavor.
- Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a spicier kick, add more chili flakes or even some sliced fresh chili peppers to the salad.
- Serving Suggestions: This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled shrimp or chicken, making it a versatile dish for any occasion.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 6g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 5mg
