Indonesian Food 
Exquisite Indulgence: Vegan Black Rice Pudding
Desserts have a unique ability to transport us to a world of sweet indulgence, where flavors dance on our taste buds, and each bite is a moment of sheer pleasure. Enter Vegan Black Rice Pudding, a luscious and comforting dessert that combines the rich and nutty flavor of black rice with the creaminess of coconut milk. In this post, we will dive into the enchanting world of Vegan Black Rice Pudding, exploring its cultural origins, the art of crafting this delightful treat, and why it has become a cherished dessert in the world of plant-based cuisine.
A Journey into the Past
Black rice, often referred to as “forbidden rice” due to its rarity in ancient China, has a long history dating back thousands of years. Traditionally reserved for royalty and nobility, this unique rice variety was believed to possess special health benefits. Today, we can all enjoy the exceptional taste and nutrition that black rice brings to our tables.
The Allure of Black Rice
The deep purple-black hue of black rice is due to its high anthocyanin content, which also gives blueberries and blackberries their vibrant color. Beyond its striking appearance, black rice offers a robust and nutty flavor that adds depth and character to dishes.
The Vegan Twist
Vegan Black Rice Pudding takes this already delightful rice variety and transforms it into a plant-based dessert that’s both satisfying and indulgent. By using coconut milk or other dairy alternatives, we achieve the creaminess traditionally associated with rice pudding, without the need for animal products.
Health Benefits of Black Rice
Vegan Black Rice Pudding doesn’t just satisfy your sweet tooth; it’s also packed with nutritional benefits:
- Rich in Antioxidants: Black rice is renowned for its high antioxidant content, which may help combat oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.
- Fiber-Rich: This rice variety is a good source of dietary fiber, promoting digestive health and keeping you feeling full and satisfied.
- Gluten-Free: Black rice is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
- Vitamins and Minerals: It contains essential nutrients like iron, vitamin E, and several B vitamins, contributing to overall well-being.
The Art of Crafting Vegan Black Rice Pudding
Creating Vegan Black Rice Pudding is a process that involves several steps to achieve the perfect balance of creaminess and flavor:
- Cook the Rice: Black rice is cooked until tender, absorbing the flavors of coconut milk, sweeteners, and spices in the process.
- Sweetening the Deal: Vegan sweeteners like coconut sugar, maple syrup, or agave nectar are used to add sweetness, while vanilla extract or pandan leaves enhance the aroma.
- Creamy Coconut Milk: Coconut milk is the star of the show, providing the rich and creamy base that makes rice pudding so indulgent.
- Spices and Flavors: Depending on regional variations and personal preferences, spices like cinnamon, cardamom, or nutmeg can be added to elevate the taste.
Variations and Garnishes
While Vegan Black Rice Pudding is delightful on its own, there are numerous ways to customize it to your liking. Some variations include:
- Fruit Additions: Consider adding fresh or dried fruits like mango, coconut, or berries for a burst of flavor and texture.
- Nuts and Seeds: A sprinkle of crushed nuts or seeds like almonds, pistachios, or chia seeds can provide a delightful crunch.
- Coconut Whipped Cream: Top your pudding with a dollop of vegan coconut whipped cream for an extra layer of richness.
Vegan Black Rice Pudding
Ingredients
- 2 cup Indonesian black rice
- 20 oz can full-fat coconut milk
- 3 cups water *reduce to 1 cup for Instant Pot
- a pinch of salt
- 4 Tbsp coconut sugar or other sweetener see notes
- diced banana coconut chips, and hemp hearts for garnish
Instructions
TO MAKE ON THE STOVE TOP
- Combine the black rice, coconut milk in a medium-sized pot (reserve a couple of Tbsp for drizzling if you like) salt, and 3 cups water.
- Bring to a boil then reduce the temperature to low and simmer covered until the rice is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Give it a good stir since this will take about an hour, and check on the cooking progress every once in a while.
- When rice is cooked, remove from the heat, then stir in one Tbsp of your chosen sweetener, and taste. You may or may not want to add another.
TO MAKE IN THE INSTANT POT
- Mix the black rice, coconut milk, coconut sugar, and 1 cup of water in the Instant Pot.
- Seal the Instant Pot, and set to Manual (High pressure for 22 minutes).
- When the pressure cooking cycle has finished, let the steam release naturally for 10 minutes, then flip to quickly release the rest of the steam.
- Remove the lid and stir the rice pudding .
- You can serve it hot, warm, or cold drizzled with a bit of extra coconut milk.
Vegan Black Rice Pudding is a testament to the creativity and versatility of plant-based cuisine. Its rich and nutty flavor, combined with the velvety creaminess of coconut milk, creates a dessert that’s both satisfying and unforgettable. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or simply looking to expand your dessert horizons, this dish offers a sweet and indulgent experience that’s perfect for any occasion. So, gather your ingredients, follow our recipe (link provided), and get ready to savor the remarkable fusion of black rice and coconut—an exquisite indulgence that truly elevates the world of vegan desserts.
Inspired by: Hey Nutrition Lady
If you need kitchen tools, visit Sur La Table
If you enjoyed this recipe or have suggestions on how we can improve it, please leave us a comment below. Also, make sure to check out other dishes I’ve created or stories I’ve written about food culture – here.
How do you make the black rice?
Black rice is a variety of rice also sometimes called forbidden rice.