Red Cargo rice is a Product of Thailand. It is a type of non-glutinous long grain rice that is similar to brown rice, in that it is unpolished. The color of the bran is red, purple, or maroon. The husks of the rice grains are removed during the milling process, retaining all the nutrients, vitamins, and minerals intact in the bran layer and in the germ.

Red rice is a good source of thiamin (vitamin B₁), riboflavin (vitamin B₂), fiber, iron and calcium. The flavor of cooked red cargo rice is generally more sweet and nutty, and the texture is more chewy than standard white polished rice. Red rice takes longer to cook than white rice, but not as long as brown rice. Soaking the rice in water for at least 30 minutes before cooking produces a softer texture.

Its color ranges from red to purple and its texture is chewier compared to white rice. The name “red cargo rice” comes from the fact that it used to be exported in bulk. This marked a difference from white rice, which was pre-packaged before exportation.

Published Date: August 26, 2023