Description

ABOUT

Mapillai Samba, also known as “Bride Groom Rice,” is a red-native rice variety that is mostly grown in Tamil Nadu. Because it is hardy and requires little to no fertilisers or pesticides, it is well suited to organic farming. It is a 160-day crop. Mapillai samba has sadly vanished from our farms and markets, along with other traditional varieties of rice, to be replaced with highly processed, nutritionally inferior white rice.

HISTORY OF MAPILA SAMPA RICE

Its name’s etymology can be traced back to Tamil folklore. In the past, it was crucial for a man to display his bravery in a variety of traditional activities. Both their physical and mental toughness are put to the test in these activities. One such game required the newlywed bridegroom to lift a heavy rock in front of everyone in order to demonstrate his physical strength. The mother-in-law intended to prepare and serve rice with a high nutritional value in order to provide her son-in-law with the extra energy and strength he needed to lift the rock successfully. One such native rice with a high nutritional value that can help him focus while lifting the rock and provide him the strength to lift is called “mappillai samba.” Thus, “Mappillai Samba,” a crimson, thick rice dish, gained its name. It was frequently prepared and offered to wedded bridegrooms. This dish is intended for everyone who wishes to feel energised. In addition to decreasing obesity and hunger, it also offers numerous other benefits for a healthy heart.

HOW TO COOK MAPILA SAMPA RICE/ BRIDEGROOM RICE

Wash and soak the rice for 6-8 hours. Soaking helps to shorten the cooking time and also helps in the better absorption of nutrients in the body.

For 1 cup of rice, add 3.5 cups of water and cook till done.

You can experiment with a variety of recipes to create healthy and yet delicious foods like mapila sampa curd rice, kanji, or idli dosas by using white rice instead of brown rice.

BENEFITS OF MAPILA SAMPA RICE/ BRIDEGROOM RICE

• They are rich in iron and vitamins, which aid in the synthesis of red blood cells, also known as RBCs, which are necessary for breathing and circulation in the body. Myoglobin and haemoglobin are produced in part by iron. Hemoglobin and myoglobin carry oxygen to the body’s muscles and tissues, keeping the body’s energy levels high. Mapila sampa rice is also known as “Energy Rice”, and the name is just apt as it is high in manganese content, which quickly energises the body.

• This rice is rich in antioxidants, which protect our cells and tissues from damage and also help in slowing down aging.

• The zinc content in Mappillai Samba rice is also significant. This speeds the healing process and keeps the body’s defences in good working order. Iron and zinc content help increase haemoglobin content in the body.