Rice, red, unenriched, dry, raw
Whole food · Cereal Grains and Pasta
Photo: Wikipedia
Red rice is a whole-grain rice with a deep, nutty flavor and a pleasantly chewy texture. Its striking reddish-brown bran layer is packed with antioxidants, giving it a distinct earthy aroma. It offers a robust nutritional profile with significantly more fiber and protein than many refined white rice varieties.
💚 Why it's loved
People love its hearty, nutty taste and firm, chewy texture that holds up well in salads and pilafs. It's also celebrated for its vibrant color and cultural significance in many traditional cuisines.
⚠️ Watch-outs & how to enjoy it better
Its chewy texture and longer cooking time can be off-putting to those used to soft white rice. For individuals managing blood sugar, its carbohydrate content (76g per 100g dry) still requires portion control; pairing it with protein (like lentils or chicken) and healthy fats (like olive oil) can help moderate blood sugar response.
Key benefits
- Rich in antioxidants like anthocyanins from its red bran layer
- Good source of dietary fiber for digestive health and satiety
- Provides plant-based protein (8.56g per 100g dry)
- Contains essential minerals like iron and zinc
- Whole grain with a lower glycemic index than white rice
🍽️ Popular dishes
🌍 Where it's eaten
💡 Did you know?
The red color of red rice comes from anthocyanins, the same powerful antioxidants found in blueberries and red grapes.
Full nutrition (scales with serving)
| Water | 10.5 g |
| Energy (Atwater General Factors) | 370 kcal |
| Energy (Atwater Specific Factors) | 360 kcal |
| Nitrogen | 1.4 g |
| Protein | 8.6 g |
| Total lipid (fat) | 3.4 g |
| Ash | 1.3 g |
| Carbohydrate, by difference | 76.2 g |
| Fiber, total dietary | 4.2 g |
| Starch | 70.8 g |
| Calcium, Ca | 9.2 mg |
| Iron, Fe | 1.2 mg |
| Magnesium, Mg | 126 mg |
| Phosphorus, P | 314 mg |
| Potassium, K | 245 mg |
| Sodium, Na | 0.44 mg |
| Zinc, Zn | 2.6 mg |
| Copper, Cu | 0.27 mg |
| Manganese, Mn | 2.6 mg |
| Thiamin | 0.34 mg |
| Niacin | 6.7 mg |
| Vitamin B-6 | 0.14 mg |
| Biotin | 4.8 ug |
FAQ
Is red rice the same as brown rice?
No, red rice is a distinct variety with a red bran layer, while brown rice has a brown bran layer. Both are whole grains, but red rice has a nuttier flavor and higher antioxidant content.
How do I cook red rice?
Rinse the rice, then use a 1:2.5 water-to-rice ratio. Simmer covered for 30-40 minutes until tender but chewy. Let it rest for 10 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
Is red rice gluten-free?
Yes, red rice is naturally gluten-free, making it a safe option for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.