Vedagiri Herbals – Bamboo Rice

Rice has always been one of Kerala’s favorite staple foods. In the past, when agriculture was the main occupation, rice was cultivated extensively across the state. However, as society shifted into a consumer-driven lifestyle, the dependence on store-bought food items increased, often compromising on quality. Choosing the right type of rice is crucial, as it directly impacts health and overall well-being.

Among the different varieties available, Bamboo Rice stands out for its unique origin, rare availability, and rich nutritional profile.

What is Bamboo Rice?

Bamboo rice is produced from the seeds of mature bamboo plants. Unlike regular rice, it is not cultivated every season; instead, it is harvested when bamboo flowers – an event that occurs only once in the plant’s long life cycle, after which the bamboo dies. This rarity makes bamboo rice a precious food source and a vital income for tribal communities who gather it from forests.

Bamboo rice is prized for its nutritive and medicinal qualities, making it a healthy addition to modern diets.

Health Benefits of Bamboo Rice

• Rich in carbohydrates: A cup contains around 34 g of carbs, making it an excellent energy booster, especially for athletes.

• Contains antioxidants: Helps slow down signs of ageing and supports overall cell health.

• Controls blood sugar: Regular consumption may help lower blood sugar levels naturally.

• Fat-free food: A great option for people on weight management or dietary control.

• Relieves cough, cold & asthma: Powdered bamboo rice mixed with honey is a traditional remedy for respiratory issues.

• Good source of Vitamin B: Supports energy metabolism and nervous system health.

Culinary Uses

Bamboo rice can be cooked just like regular rice, with a taste similar to unpolished rice. It is versatile and can be used to prepare:

• Steamed rice / porridge

• Pongal

• Kheer (Payasam)

• Nutritious powders for children and adults

Recipe – Bamboo Rice Porridge

Ingredients:

• Bamboo rice – 3 to 4 tbsp

• Water – as required

• Salt – to taste

Method:

1. Wash and soak bamboo rice in water for 6–7 hours.

2. Drain and transfer to a pressure cooker.

3. Add 2 glasses of water and salt. Close the lid.

4. Cook on medium flame. After vapor release, place the weight and wait for 3 whistles.

5. Allow pressure to settle, then transfer to a bowl and serve warm.

Recipe – Bamboo Rice Kheer (Payasam)

Ingredients:

• Bamboo rice – 200 g

• Jaggery (crushed) – 500 g

• Thick coconut milk (first milk) – 1 cup

• Medium coconut milk (second milk) – 4 cups

• Thin coconut milk (third milk) – 8 cups

• Cashew nuts – ½ cup

• Coconut slices – ½ cup

• Dried ginger powder – 1 tsp

• Cumin powder – ½ tsp

• Cardamom powder – 1 tsp

• Ghee – ¼ cup + 2 tbsp

Method:

1. Wash bamboo rice 3–4 times in cold water.

2. Dissolve jaggery in water, strain, and keep aside.

3. Heat 2 tbsp ghee, fry coconut slices until golden, set aside. Repeat with cashews.

4. In a heavy-bottomed pan, boil third coconut milk (8 cups).

5. Add washed rice and cook until ¾ done. Add more water if needed.

6. Mix in jaggery syrup and second coconut milk. Stir until thickened.

7. Add dried ginger, cumin, and cardamom powders.

8. Stir in first coconut milk, fried cashews, coconut slices, and remaining ghee.

9. Simmer for 5–8 minutes until semi-thick. Serve warm.

Storage Tips

• Store in an airtight container.

• Keep in a cool, dry place away from moisture.

Vedagiri Herbals Bamboo Rice is a wholesome, natural superfood with both nutritional and medicinal benefits. Adding it to your diet is a step toward healthy living while supporting traditional forest communities who harvest this rare grain.