Vietnamese purple rice is a traditional ingredient enjoyed for its nutty flavor and natural purple hue. What makes it unique is not only its taste but also its rich nutritional value, long cherished in local cuisine. Let’s explore how this rustic staple is elevated into a fine dining experience at Chapter.
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The untold origin of Vietnamese Purple Rice
Purple rice originating from China is used to be reserved for only emperors. Since it represents good fortune and longevity. As aforementioned, common people are forced from eating it, which is why it’s called “emperor’s rice” or “forbidden rice”.
Unfolding the historic story of purple rice
Day by day, purple rice spread to other countries in Asia, including Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam and Philippines. Due to its special appearance and taste, purple rice has become a staple in Vietnamese culture.
Tây Bắc – Where Vietnamese Purple Rice Was Grown
Purple rice, also known as H’Mong rice or “Meo” plain rice, is a treasured specialty of the Northwestern mountains. Grown organically on high terraced fields without fertilizers or pesticides, the grains are harvested and milled by hand. This manual process helps preserve their natural pale purple color and the authentic flavor of the mountains.
A defining feature of Northwest upland rice is its tender, sticky texture with firm grains and a lingering sweetness. When cooked, the rice releases a subtle, natural aroma, free from additives, preservatives, or artificial scents. During the new harvest season, the grains are sticky to the touch with a fresh paddy fragrance. By mid-season, they become drier yet still cook into soft, fragrant rice. Purple upland rice from the Northwest carries a rich, distinctive chewiness unlike any other plain rice grown elsewhere.
What Are Purple Rice’s Nutritional Benefits?
In addition to tasteful flavor, it brings you unforgettable culinary experiences with rich nutritious ingredients.
Rich In Antioxidants
This kind of rice has dark purple or black due to the rich anthocyanins and powerful antioxidant outer layer. These antioxidants not only prevent cancer but also reduce the risk of obesity, heart disease and diabetes.
Rich In Protein, Fiber And Iron
Firstly, Vietnamese purple rice is rich in protein, with 8.89 grams of protein included in 100 grams of rice. Strengthening bones and reducing muscle loss are two notable benefits. Moreover, the rich amount of fiber in purple rice can reduce blood pressure, lower cholesterol, help lose weight and promote digestive health. Last but not least, purple rice is a rich source of iron. This is a necessary mineral which plays an integral part in red blood cells production and oxygen transportation.
Diverse Recipes With Vietnamese Purple Rice
Purple Rice Mixed With Coconut Milk And Mango
What makes this dish special is the sweet combination of coconut milk, mango and purple rice. Purple rice is fully cooked. As a result, it can preserve a unique purple color from anthocyanin, bringing an irresistible and flavorful taste.
The mild tangy flavor from fresh mango can soften the whole sweetness of total ingredients. Creamy texture lies in coconut milk, which contributes to the harmonious mixture of delicious and nutritious ingredients.
Purple Rice With Stir-Fried Pork
Pork is stir-fried with herbs, which creates a delightful flavor and balance. Due to the subtle fragrance, herbs can not soften the rich flavor of purple rice. The combination of natural ingredients in moderation create unforgettable culinary experiences. The convenience allows Vietnamese purple rice with stir-fired pork to appear in daily meals, Tet holiday, festivals in the mountainous region named Tây Bắc.
Vietnamese Purple Rice Yogurt
Purple Rice Yogurt is a wholesome dessert that brings together creamy yogurt and tender purple rice. The yogurt has a refreshing tang that balances the natural sweetness of the rice. Each grain remains slightly chewy, adding an enjoyable texture to the smooth base.
Its purple color comes from anthocyanins, antioxidants that give both beauty and health value. The taste feels light yet rich, with a gentle sweetness that lingers. Served chilled, this dish works well as breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a healthy dessert. Purple Rice Yogurt offers both indulgence and nourishment in every spoonful.
Purple Rice Smoothie
Vietnamese purple rice smoothie is a unique drink that highlights the gentle sweetness of purple rice. First, the rice is cooked until soft, then blended with milk or yogurt to create a smooth and creamy base. As a result, the drink takes on a natural purple shade that feels both eye-catching and inviting. In terms of flavor, it is mildly nutty, while the creamy texture adds a comforting richness.
To enhance the taste, a drizzle of honey or some fresh fruit brings brightness and balance. When served cold, the smoothie is refreshing yet satisfying. Therefore, it works perfectly as a quick breakfast, a healthy afternoon snack, or a light dessert with a modern twist.
Savoring Purple Rice in Fine Dining Style At Chapter
This season’s flourish highlights black sticky rice in Duck with Black Sticky Rice and Plums. Wild duck is marinated, air-dried, then grilled over charcoal. The smoke locks in juiciness while enriching the flavor. Sticky rice is fermented with handmade wine yeast for 3 – 5 days. The result is fragrant, spiced warmth, sweetness, and moist texture.
Pickled plum and plum purée create a harmony of salty, sweet, and sour notes. A bowl of hot vegetable soup completes the story, drawing guests deeper into our harvest journey. This autumn – winter menu is available until November’s end. Reserve now to experience the full “Flourish” story.
Conclusion
Vietnamese purple rice stands as both a rustic staple and a versatile ingredient in traditional cuisine. There is a sense of wonder in seeing this humble grain elevated into refined fine dining. Let’s visit Chapter to discover how purple rice becomes an unforgettable culinary experience.
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Chapter Dining
12C Chan Cam, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
Mon – Sat from 18:00 – 23:00
Tel: +84 333 201 221 – Reserve a table
Email: reservation@chapter.vn
