by POPSUGAR Fitness 7

I just came across Forbidden Rice from Lotus Foods. Legend tells us that this ancient grain was once eaten exclusively by the Emperors.

Today, this medium-size Chinese black rice can be enjoyed by all and is prized for its delicious nutty taste, soft and chewy texture, and beautiful rich deep purple color.

High in nutritional and medicinal value, Forbidden Rice is rich in iron and considered a blood tonifier. Unlike other black rice from Asia, it is not glutinous or rough, and cooks in only 30 minutes.

It tastes a lot like short grain brown rice, but its deep purplish black color makes it much more exciting. And it's not at all expensive - a 15oz bag costs about $4.

What else is great? It's 100% whole grain, so you know it's good for you.