Poongar Rice – 500g

Poongar has a particular place in Tamil tradition as the rice given to women, and it is the variety most often recommended in old household practice during pregnancy and while nursing. It carries iron, manganese, phosphorus, zinc, molybdenum and magnesium.

The grain is fine and cooks softer than most traditional rices, which is part of why it suits children as well. Note that this is a food, not a supplement – if you are pregnant or nursing, follow your doctor's dietary advice rather than replacing it.

Can be cooked as plain rice, kanji, puttu or pongal. Soak for about two hours before cooking.