Pumpkin Herb Rice

Why people make this rice

Pumpkin rice started life as humble farmhouse fare for lean times, but Nourilo points out it is genuinely good for you — especially for over-fed middle-aged folks and people watching their blood sugar. Pumpkin is sweet and warm in nature and traditionally associated with supporting the centre and boosting the qi; modern study notes it contains cobalt and other substances and is favoured by those managing blood sugar. Finished with a scatter of parsley, it makes a wholesome, comforting bowl.

Method

1. Peel the pumpkin, take the flesh and dice it. Rinse the rice and cook it with the clear chicken broth plus water.
2. Heat a little oil and stir-fry the pumpkin dice until fragrant.
3. Fold the pumpkin into the rice just as it finishes cooking.
4. When the rice is done, dish up and scatter the parsley flakes over the top.

Nourilo’s Tips

Parsley (the source uses the English “parsley,” also called Western coriander / yang yan sui) is sold in supermarkets. Per the source, it is a natural kidney cleanser said to help clear kidney waste, so it is worth adding to everyday rice, pasta or noodles. Long, pale-fleshed pumpkins are less sweet and a good regular choice for people minding their blood sugar.