Pokkali Rice

Pokkali tells the story of a grain that traveled through the waters of time into the bowls of the hungry and weary and then continued her journey through time to provide nourishment and healing.

Pokkali is a naturally organic rice farming technology used in Kerala's waterlogged coastal areas of Alappuzha, Ernakulam, and Thrissur. Pokkali stands out among the world's heirloom rice types not just for its high nutritional content and antiquity but also for its ability to withstand the effects of climate change and other human-made interventions. It exhibits remarkable salinity resistance. This is an integrated farming system in which rice cultivation and aquaculture go hand in hand. Both are completely organic systems of cultivation and no fertilizers or plant protection chemicals are applied. It is believed that Pokkali rice gave fishermen the astounding energy to be at sea all day and catch fish. 

The Pokkali system mainly depends on traditional Pokkali cultivars and high yielding varieties derived from these cultivars. Pokkali, Churuttu Pokkali, Chettyviruppu,Anakkondan and Cheruviruppu are the traditional cultivars prevalent in this tract. Improved varieties developed from the Rice research Station. Vyttila (VTL-1 to VTL-8) Kerala Agricultural University, is now popular mainly with respect to high yield.

• Geographical Indication Tagged
• Natural organic cultivation
• Sustainable cultivation and saline resistant
• High protein content
• Good for diabetic patients. 

Rice has the lowest concentration of carbohydrates and can be well consumed  by diabetic patients.

Pokkali products like the rice powder and flakes allow a gastronome to experiment with Pokkali in many other recipes. The flour can be used for traditional favorites like, puttu, idiyappam, appams, murukku and many others.

Other products in which rice is used are breakfast cereals, noodles, and such alcoholic beverages as Japanese sake.

Pokkali Rice: A Nutritional Powerhouse

• Convalescence Aid: Pokkali rice gruel (Kanji vellam) is traditionally used for recovery from diseases like cholera and typhoid.
• Antioxidant Rich: Contains antioxidants like oryzanol, tocopherol, and tocotrienol to combat oxidative stress.
• Digestive Support: Fiber content aids digestion and prevents constipation.
• Special Diets: Gluten-free, low-glycemic index, making it suitable for diabetics and those with gluten sensitivities.
• Nutrient-Packed: Rich in vitamins (B complex), minerals (iron, boron, sulfur, vitamin E, selenium, manganese, phosphorus), and amylase (good for digestion).
• Health Benefits: Supports immune function, bone health, and may help with heart diseases and cancer (due to antioxidant content).

Siddha medicine suggests that Pokkali should be consumed with the water it is cooked in. Cooking a kanji with Pokkali or cooking down the water, where the water is completely absorbed in the rice are two recommended methods to cooking Pokkali rice.

Pokkali Rice: From Paddy to Plate

• Cultivation: Grown in saline coastal areas with specific water management practices.
• Sowing: Seeds directly sown in flooded fields during monsoon.
• Growth: Thrives in saline conditions with minimal inputs.
• Harvest: Manually or mechanically harvested with care.
• Threshing: Separate grains from straw through traditional or mechanical methods.
• Drying: Reduce moisture content to prevent spoilage.
• Milling: Remove husk to produce polished rice.
• Packaging: Prepare rice for distribution and sale.

Proper storage is crucial for extending the shelf life of Pokkali rice. Store rice in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Using airtight containers or packaging that prevents exposure to air and humidity helps maintain the quality of the rice.

The shelf life of processed Pokkali rice, such as white rice, is typically shorter than that of brown rice due to the removal of the outer bran layer. White rice can last anywhere from 4 months to 1-2 years, depending on storage conditions.

Pokkali Rice: Nutritional Breakdown

• Energy Source: Rich in carbohydrates for sustained energy.
• Protein Content: Contains protein, though in lower amounts compared to other protein sources.
• Dietary Fiber: Promotes digestive health and regularity.
• Essential Vitamins: Provides B vitamins for metabolism and overall health.
• Key Minerals: Offers magnesium, phosphorus, and selenium for bone health and antioxidant defense.
• Low Fat: Heart-healthy option with low fat content.
• Gluten-Free: Suitable for individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

Rice allergy is rare, but it can develop in anyone. Similar to wheat or gluten allergies, you may also have a rice intolerance instead of an allergy. Rice intolerance symptoms include systemic inflammation.