Jasmine Butterfly Pea Rice

Photo above courtesy of Saeng Douangdara

What is butterfly pea?

This funny named flower originated in regions of Southeast Asia. Used as a popular dyeing method, butterfly pea (scientific name clitoria ternatea), is known for its color changing magic when it reacts with acid from lime or lemon juice. 

Rice can be colored in a variety of ways - One of our favorite ways to use butterfly pea is in a beautifully hued jasmine rice. In this recipe we will show you how to make it in 5 easy steps in the rice cooker or on the stove!

Jasmine Butterfly Pea Rice by Beatriz Aurelio-Saguin

Serves 2

Ingredients

• 1-2 butterfly pea leaves per cup of rice
• 1 cup of jasmine rice
• Pinch of salt to taste
• Water - *For jasmine rice, ratios range from 1 part rice to 1¼ - 1 ½ parts water

Instructions

Before starting: Wash your rice 3-5 times, or until the water is clear.

**This is an important step - Do not skip!**

Washing your rice won't ruin the texture of your rice, but it does get rid of impurities and any hitch hiking bugs that may have taken a trip along with your rice - From the fields, to the store, to your house! 

*If using a rice cooker:

1. Put 1 cup jasmine rice in rice cooker (you can pre-wash or wash in rice cooker bowl)
2. Add water until indicated 1 cup line (for either jasmine or white rice setting) and 1-2 butterfly pea leaves.
3. Set to jasmine rice or other appropriate setting, close, and set to cook.
4. Once your rice is done, fluff, and enjoy :) 

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*If you don't have a rice cooker:

1. Place 1 cup jasmine rice and water in a heavy bottom pot.
2. Bring to a simmer (not boil!) with the lid off.
3. Once you reach a simmer, turn down the temperature to medium low, cover with a lid, and cook undisturbed for 15-20 minutes - Check for doneness starting at the 15 min. mark.
4. Then uncover, fluff, and double check to make sure no pieces of the rice are stuck to the bottom of the pan. There should be no more bubbling water. Fluff again and serve!

We hope you enjoy this simple recipe. To learn more about this uniquely awesome plant, or more butterfly pea inspired recipes, visit our friends at Courageous Kitchen here.