Have you heard of red yeast rice or 红糟 before? This unique ingredient has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine and cooking. Red Yeast Rice is commonly used to ferment rice wine. You might have heard of it as red rice lees or red glutinous rice. But what exactly is this and what benefits does it offer? Let's dive in and explore the wonders of this natural remedy, which is also a very popular product here at Ye Traditions

What is Red Yeast Rice 红糟?

Red yeast rice is a type of fermented rice that is cultivated with a specific type of yeast called Monascus purpureus. This fermentation process gives the rice its distinctive red color and unique flavor. It has been used in Chinese cuisine for centuries to add color and flavor to dishes. 

As you can imagine, with the yeast that is used, this already makes it a wonderful probiotic even before we put it into red rice wine! 

What is it Used For?

In Asian cooking, it is most popular to be used in red rice wine chicken soup 红糟鸡汤, or even in Peranakan dishes. Alternatively, because of its bold flavours, we also use it as a protein marinade for chicken or for fish, before we grill it. It gives the dish a naturally red vibrant colour.

Apart from culinary uses, red yeast rice is also known for its potential health benefits. It contains compounds called monacolins, which are similar to the active ingredient found in statin medications. This has led to red yeast rice being used as a natural alternative for managing cholesterol levels. In Asia, especially in Japan, this is a very popular health supplement. 

What Benefits are There?

One of the main benefits of red yeast rice is its ability to help lower LDL cholesterol levels, also known as "bad" cholesterol. This can help reduce the risk of heart disease and improve overall heart health. Additionally, red yeast rice has antioxidant properties that can help protect cells from damage and reduce inflammation in the body.

Some studies have also suggested that red yeast rice may have potential benefits for improving blood circulation, reducing inflammation, and even supporting bone health. However, more research is needed to fully understand the extent of these benefits.

Overall, red yeast rice is a versatile ingredient that offers both culinary and potential health benefits. Whether you're looking to add a pop of color to your dishes or support your heart health naturally, red yeast rice may be worth exploring.