How to Cook Forbidden (Black) Rice Perfectly Every Time

This black rice recipe makes cooking forbidden (black) rice easy and reliable. Below you’ll find clear stovetop and Instant Pot instructions plus practical rice-to-water ratios so you get perfectly cooked rice every time.

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Why this recipe works

Cooking black rice in an Instant Pot is convenient and consistently produces tender, flavorful grains. The method below works well whether you want a simple side dish or a base for more elaborate meals, such as fish, sushi-style rolls, or Korean-inspired bowls.

Black (forbidden) rice has a slightly nutty flavor and a striking deep purple-black color when cooked, which makes it an attractive and versatile choice for savory dishes. It pairs especially well with seafood, pickled vegetables, and bold sauces.

Why is it called forbidden rice?

Black rice, sometimes called forbidden or emperor’s rice, earned its name from stories that it was once reserved for royalty. Beyond the folklore, it is prized for its rich color and nutritional benefits, which include antioxidants and fiber.

Black rice nutrition facts

As a reference, 1/3 cup of dry black rice contains about 200 calories, roughly 43 g of carbohydrates, and around 3 g of dietary fiber. Exact nutrition will vary by brand and serving size.

Where to buy and recommended types

Black rice is commonly available in grocery stores, often in the Asian foods aisle, bulk bins, or natural foods sections. Two brands that are frequently recommended are Lotus Foods Organic Forbidden Rice, known for a deep dark color, and Lundberg Organic Black Pearl Rice, which can have a slightly lighter interior when cooked. Either option works well for this recipe.

Rice to water ratio

Adjust the liquid depending on your cooking method:

• Stovetop: 1 cup black rice to 2 cups water
• Instant Pot (pressure cooker): 1 cup black rice to 1 3/4 cups water

Can I cook black rice in an Instant Pot?

Yes. The Instant Pot makes black rice quick and hands-off. If using a pressure cooker or Instant Pot, the method below produces consistent results and is particularly useful when you want to plan ahead or cook other components at the same time.

If you prefer stovetop cooking, the instructions include that method as well. Both approaches produce tender, slightly chewy grains that hold up well in salads, bowls, and sushi-style preparations.

Can I make black rice for sushi?

Yes. Cook the rice using the instructions below. Once the rice is finished and still warm, season it for sushi by gently folding in about 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar per 1 cup dry rice (adjust to taste). Let the rice cool slightly before using it to make rolls or hand-formed sushi.

Sushi and sauce ideas

Black rice makes a beautiful base for vegetable and seafood sushi rolls. It also pairs nicely with rich, savory sauces like eel sauce, spicy mayo-style sauces, chili crisp, or sesame-based dressings. Use it anywhere you’d use short- to medium-grain rice for added visual impact and nuttiness.

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