Sogno Toscano Riso Nero is a 100% Italian whole-grain black rice cultivated in Italy's Po Valley. Naturally deep black in color, the rice releases a distinctive aroma while cooking that Sogno Toscano compares to sandalwood and freshly baked bread. Black rice has ancient roots in China, where legend associates it with the "Forbidden Rice of the Emperor," but it is now also cultivated in Italy and has become a striking ingredient in contemporary Italian cooking. Its firm whole-grain texture, aromatic character, and dramatic color make it particularly well suited to seafood, shrimp, scallops, vegetables, grain salads, rice bowls, and elegant side dishes. For preparation, Sogno Toscano recommends approximately two cups of water for every cup of rice and cooking gently, covered, for up to 40 minutes. A visually distinctive alternative to conventional white rice with plenty of character of its own.