The saying goes that black goes with everything, and we can assure you that this is absolutely true in the kitchen as well. This is proven by the widespread use of Venere rice, one of the most unique and prized varieties on the market. It is a whole-grain black rice with a dark color and a delicate flavor, sweeter than its white counterpart. Its aroma is also very distinctive, reminiscent of freshly baked bread, giving an exotic touch even to the simplest dishes. Here are 3 easy and tasty black rice recipes to bring all the nutritional properties and versatility of this precious food to your table in just a few minutes.

Black rice: here is why it is good for you

Before diving into some Venere rice recipes, it is important to understand its characteristics and nutritional benefits. Fragrant and flavorful, it is a highly prized variety of whole-grain rice rich in beneficial properties, so much so that it is often defined as a natural supplement. This ebony-colored rice is a treasure trove of wellness, providing our bodies with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and other nutrients essential for its proper functioning.

Nutritionists particularly appreciate it for the presence of "resistant starch" after cooking, which, similar to fiber, helps maintain a healthy gut flora. The total absence of gluten makes it an ideal food for those with intolerances. Additionally, thanks to its high concentration of B vitamins and minerals like magnesium and potassium, it has the ability to combat stress and fatigue, promoting general physical and mental well-being.

Venere Rice: simple and delicious recipes with Ariete

Given its unique features, black rice is primarily used to accompany fish and vegetable dishes, as its natural sweetness enhances their flavors. This type of rice is particularly suitable for summer recipes and cold dishes, adding a unique color to your table. Let's look at 3 delicious and simple black rice recipes. The process involves boiling the rice separately - perhaps using a practical Ariete rice cooker - and then sautéing it with the rest of the ingredients to allow it to fully absorb the flavors.

Black rice with vegetables

Black rice with vegetables is a practical, fast, and very tasty recipe. It becomes even better and crunchier if you use a wok to sauté the vegetables. You will need 250 grams of Venere rice, 2 carrots, 2 round zucchinis, and a shallot. Cook the black rice in your rice cooker while you wash, trim, and dice the vegetables. Mince the shallot and brown it in a pan with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a pinch of salt. After about five minutes, add the carrots, then the zucchinis, and continue cooking until the vegetables are soft but still firm. Now, sauté the cooked rice with the vegetables and, if desired, add some fresh homemade pesto.

Black rice with salmon

Among the many black rice recipes, one of the most delicious features the delicate goodness of salmon. Take 250 grams of Venere rice, 400 grams of smoked salmon, one spring onion, and 120 grams of cream cheese. Start by boiling the rice in your Ariete rice cooker. Meanwhile, coarsely chop the smoked salmon and thinly slice the spring onion. In a non-stick pan with a little extra virgin olive oil, let the onion soften over low heat for a few minutes. Add the salmon, sear it slightly, turn off the heat, and set aside. When the rice is ready, add it to the salmon and stir. Turn the heat back to low for a few minutes, mix in the cream cheese until creamy, and serve hot.

Black rice with zucchini and shrimp

250 grams of Venere rice, 300 grams of shrimp, 300 grams of zucchini, Tabasco, and lemon. These are the ingredients for a delicious, healthy, and nutritious black rice dish with zucchini and shrimp. Start cooking the rice and, in the meantime, grate the washed and trimmed zucchinis. In a pan, heat oil with a clove of garlic, add the grated zucchinis, and cook for about 5 minutes, adjusting with salt and pepper. Clean the shrimp and season them with lemon zest in a bowl, then sauté them in the pan for a few minutes, deglazing with lemon juice. Finally, mix everything together and serve for a fresh and fragrant meal.