Lip-smacking Haleem Served At Pista House With Special Ingredient   

Hyderabad: The Ramzan season has begun, and with the celebration comes the sumptuous meal of Haleem, eaten mostly to beak the day-long fast during Ramadan known as Roza. Made from ground wheat and meat (usually lamb), garnished with nuts and rich in ghee, Haleem is considered a meal in itself.

In Hyderabad, one restaurant that is famous for its GI tagged Hyderabadi Haleem is Pista House. The Hyderabadi biryani joint is now switching to black rice instead of the traditional basmati rice and it is definitely going to have a lot of takers because of the exotic rice’s nutritional properties.

The rice is sourced from Manipur, locally known as Chakhao. It is a collaborative effort between Pista House and the North East Foundation.

The black rice "Chakhao" Haleem will be available in varying quantities with the single plate Haleem for Rs 170 weighing 350 grams; this is Rs 10 more than the last year’s price.

A family pack for Rs 690 and jumbo packs of 5 kg and 10 kg are also available.

Black rice, known for its high nutritional benefits and anti-carcinogenic properties, has a rich history dating back to the Chinese royalty. In ancient China, the rice was only grown by royalty in small amounts and it was done under strict supervision. Only the emperors were allowed to enjoy the delicacy and others were forbidden to have it. Hence, the name 'forbidden rice'.

In India, the rice is grown in Odisha, Jharkhand, and West Bengal. It is also grown in parts of Tamil Nadu locally called Kavuni. A kilogram of the rice costs Rs 300.

Also Read: Why Muslims Eat Dates In Ramadan