Lal Chawal (Red Rice)

The Red Rice of Purola and Uttarkashi is legendary. This indigenous variety is rain-fed and grows in the mineral-rich terraced fields. It has a reddish-brown husk and retains its bran layer, which is where all the nutrients lie. Unlike polished white rice, Lal Chawal has a firm texture, a nutty flavor, and takes longer to chew, making you feel full with a smaller portion. It is traditionally served on special occasions and is believed to provide the physical strength needed for life in the rugged terrain.