Top Indian Rice Types In India

Types of Indian Rice

Several variants of long, medium, and short-grained rice are available in India. Some popular Indian rice types are listed below.

• Sona Masuri

This rice is cultivated in the state of Andhra Pradesh. The fertile plains of the state are home to the healthy, lush paddies yielding this rice, known for its distinct sweetness and subtle aroma.

• Kala Jeera Rice

This rice looks similar to kala jeera or black cumin seeds. It has an earthy flavour and adds complexity and character to various regional recipes. The rice is native to the state of West Bengal.

• Mogra Rice

This non-aromatic variety comes from the verdant paddy lands of Madhya Pradesh. The rice has a delicate texture, absorbs flavours brilliantly, and can, therefore, be paired perfectly with any Indian curry.

• Ambemohar Rice

This unique rice variety comes from the state of Maharashtra. Its distinctive aroma reminds one of ripe mangoes. The rice is slightly sticky in terms of texture. In some of the famous sweet dishes of India, such as shrikhand or puran poli, this rice is widely used to bring about a unique twist in taste.

Other popular rice varieties are mogra, jasmine, gobindo bhog, kolam, dubraj, kaikuthal arisi, ambermohar, indrayani, jeerasar, and jeera samba (also known as seeraga samba).

Basmati is the country’s most renowned rice variety, known for its long grains, fluffy texture, and rich aroma. This variant is called the ‘King of Rice’ and adds a royal touch to festive rice-based dishes like Biryani, Shahi Pulao, and Rice Pudding.

Basmati Rice Varieties

This rice is widely cultivated in the fertile plains of the Himalayan region. Basmati rice comes in two distinct varieties: brown basmati rice and white basmati rice. Brown basmati rice is minimally processed, with only the hull removed. In contrast, white basmati rice has the germ, hull, and bran all removed. Another notable variety of basmati rice is Sella basmati rice. This yellow-hued, parboiled rice is produced by steaming the paddy and then drying it before milling.

Health Benefits of Indian Rice

Following are some advantages of consuming rice —

• Supports Bodily Functions

Some rice varieties with the bran and germ intact are rich in antioxidants. Brown rice is one such example. The flavonoids in these rice types come with several health benefits supporting the day-to-day functioning of our bodies.

• High in Fibre

Certain rice types, such as parboiled rice, have high fibre and protein content while being low in calories. Hence, when you include rice in your dietary regimen, it helps you manage body weight, relieve constipation, and control blood sugar levels efficiently.

• Easily Digestible & Boosts Energy

Most Indian rice varieties are easy to digest, providing an instant source of energy required for strenuous activities.

• Gluten-Free

Some rice varieties, like white rice, are gluten-free and, therefore, can be an ideal choice for people with celiac disease.

• Treats Low Body Weight

People who are underweight can increase their rice consumption to help correct their body weight. Varieties like white rice are calorie-dense and can assist in weight gain.

• Offers Nutritional Support

Most Indian rice types have a rich nutritional profile. In addition to fibre, they contain many useful minerals and vitamins. Therefore, for individuals suffering from malnutrition, rice consumption can be beneficial.

• Comes with Anti-Allergic Properties

Indian rice varieties are mostly devoid of allergy-causing agents. Therefore, people with dietary allergies can consume rice without worrying about developing allergic reactions.

• Improves Cardiovascular Health

Many rice varieties, such as basmati rice, contain heart-protective compounds beneficial for cardiovascular health.Top of FormBottom of Form

How to Prepare Basmati Rice?

The best way to prepare basmati rice is —

Step 1

Wash the rice and drain the water.

Step 2

Take the washed rice in a cooking pot and add water.

Step 3

You must follow the 2:1 water-to-rice ratio while preparing basmati rice.

Step 4

Following the perfect ratio is important to make sure the rice is cooked the way it should be.

Step 5

Cover and cook the rice on a low flame, stirring every 5 minutes.

Step 6

Let the contents of the pot come to a boil and simmer for 10-12 minutes.

Step 7

Remove the pot’s lid. You’ll find that the extra water has all dried up without leaving the rice too dry.

Step 8

Lightly fork through the cooked rice, but make sure not to break the grains of rice when you do so.