What is Rice Tea, how to make it at home, and what are its benefits?

Rice tea refers to a light and transparent beverage that is prepared by infusing roasted sticky black rice or red rice. In Meghalaya, it is called Cha-Koo, where cha refers to tea and khoo is rice in the local language. In Japan, this tea is made with brown rice and is called "Genmaicha", a special blend of green tea and roasted brown rice. Delhi-based Sneha Lata Saikia, an expert in North East cuisine, says, "In Assam, we serve tea 'Saah' after a meal or as a mid-meal beverage that keeps the digestive system at ease. I learnt the art of making rice tea from a Mizo (Mizoram) lady and tasted it in Nagaland, after which I thought of introducing it to my food pop-ups." (Image: Instagram/filmychef and istock photos)

According to tea experts, Cha-koo was prevalent in a group of villages in Laskein block, 94 kms South of Shillong, until the British introduced tea. And slowly, the migration of people took the recipe of Rice Tea to urban places, where it got popularized. If social media experiences are to be believed, this refreshing drink tastes partly like tea and partly like black coffee. (Image: istock)

Sneha informs, "For 4 cups of rice tea, you need to dry roast 1 tbsp of sticky black rice or sticky red rice for 2-3 minutes on a low flame. Next, boil it with water for 3-5 minutes, strain and serve hot." "In Japan and Korea they mix rice tea with organic green tea and enjoy it as a healthy drink to keep the digestive system at ease," adds Sneha. (Image: Instagram/filmychef)

Traditionally, rice tea has no sugar in it, however, there are people who add sugar during the boiling process to add an extra kick to the beverage. "I serve it as a dessert or post-meal drink during my food pop-ups, as it helps people feel light and rejuvenated after a rich meal,” adds Sneha who loves drinking rice tea throughout winters. (Image: istock)

This tea is rich in flavonoids, antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins. According to health experts, adding some hand-rolled green tea makes it healthier. According to studies conducted by Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio, Polyphenols in green tea prohibits the reproduction of cancer cells. Also, it is rich in selenium, a vital mineral that helps maintain thyroid function and regulates hormones and metabolism. Sneha concludes, "Rice is good for skin. It keeps the skin supple and helps prevent wrinkling. And when made the traditional way, this tea has zero caffeine content, so you can drink as many cups as you want." (Image: istock)

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