Black Rice Mango Parfait Recipe

Black rice: A type of rice with a nutty flavor and dark color, often referred to as forbidden rice.

Water: Essential for cooking the rice.

Salt: Enhances the flavor of the rice.

Ripe mangoes: Adds a tropical sweetness and vibrant color to the parfait.

Coconut yogurt: A creamy, dairy-free alternative to traditional yogurt.

Maple syrup: Provides natural sweetness to the yogurt mixture.

Vanilla extract: Adds a rich, aromatic flavor to the yogurt mixture.

When preparing black rice, ensure you rinse it thoroughly under cold water to remove excess starch. This step helps achieve a fluffier texture. Additionally, after cooking, spread the rice on a baking sheet to cool quickly and evenly, preventing it from becoming mushy.

• black rice - Substitute with forbidden rice: Forbidden rice is another name for black rice and has a similar texture and nutritional profile.

• water - Substitute with coconut water: Coconut water adds a subtle sweetness and enhances the tropical flavor of the dish.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt has a more complex flavor and can enhance the overall taste of the parfait.

• ripe mangoes - Substitute with ripe peaches: Ripe peaches have a similar sweetness and texture, making them a good alternative if mangoes are not available.

• coconut yogurt - Substitute with almond yogurt: Almond yogurt provides a creamy texture and a slightly nutty flavor, maintaining the vegan aspect of the recipe.

• maple syrup - Substitute with agave nectar: Agave nectar is a vegan-friendly sweetener with a similar consistency and sweetness level to maple syrup.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract offers a different but complementary flavor profile that pairs well with the other ingredients.

• To keep your black rice mango parfait fresh, store it in an airtight container. This will prevent any unwanted odors from seeping in and keep the parfait tasting as delightful as when you first made it.
• Place the container in the refrigerator. The cool temperature will help maintain the freshness of the coconut yogurt and the vibrant flavor of the ripe mangoes.
• For optimal taste, consume the parfait within 2-3 days. The black rice will retain its texture, and the mangoes will stay juicy and sweet.
• If you want to prepare the parfait in advance, consider storing the components separately. Keep the black rice in one container, the coconut yogurt mixture in another, and the diced mangoes in a third. This way, you can assemble the parfait just before serving, ensuring each layer is as fresh as possible.
• To freeze the parfait, first ensure the black rice is completely cooled. Layer the parfait in a freezer-safe container, leaving a bit of space at the top to allow for expansion.
• Seal the container tightly and label it with the date. This will help you keep track of how long it has been stored.
• When you're ready to enjoy the frozen parfait, transfer it to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight. This slow thawing process will help maintain the texture of the black rice and the creaminess of the coconut yogurt.
• Once thawed, give the parfait a gentle stir to reincorporate any separated layers. If desired, add a fresh layer of diced mangoes on top to enhance the flavor and presentation.

• For a quick and gentle reheat, use the microwave. Place the black rice in a microwave-safe bowl, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes. Stir halfway through to ensure even heating. Add the coconut yogurt and mangoes fresh after reheating.

• To preserve the texture, reheat the black rice on the stovetop. Add a splash of water to a saucepan, then add the rice. Cover and heat over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Assemble the parfait with fresh coconut yogurt and mangoes after reheating.

• For an oven method, preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Spread the black rice on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and bake for about 10 minutes or until heated through. Reassemble the parfait with fresh coconut yogurt and mangoes.

• If you prefer a steam method, place the black rice in a heatproof bowl and set it over a pot of simmering water. Cover and steam for about 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through. Add the coconut yogurt and mangoes fresh after reheating.

• Pot: Used to cook the black rice by boiling and simmering it with water and salt.

• Lid: Covers the pot to allow the rice to simmer properly and cook evenly.

• Strainer: Rinses the black rice under cold water before cooking.

• Mixing bowl: Combines the coconut yogurt, maple syrup, and vanilla extract.

• Spoon: Mixes the ingredients in the mixing bowl and helps layer the parfait.

• Knife: Dices the ripe mangoes into small pieces.

• Cutting board: Provides a surface to safely dice the mangoes.

• Serving glasses: Used to layer and present the black rice, coconut yogurt mixture, and diced mangoes.

• Mint leaves: Garnishes the parfait for a fresh and appealing look.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Dice the mangoes and mix the coconut yogurt with maple syrup and vanilla extract the night before.

Use a rice cooker: Cook the black rice in a rice cooker to save time and ensure perfect texture.

Cool rice quickly: Spread the cooked black rice on a baking sheet to cool it faster.

Layer efficiently: Set up an assembly line with all ingredients ready to quickly layer the parfait.

Garnish last minute: Add fresh mint leaves just before serving to keep them vibrant.