Basmati rice, often called “King of Rice,” is a distinct and aromatic long-grain rice cropped in the Himalayan foothills of India and Pakistan. It’s popular for its fragrant aroma and subtle flavour. It’s commonly used in a lot of cuisines worldwide, especially in Indian, Pakistani, and Middle Eastern dishes. Here are some of the most popular Basmati rice varieties:
Traditional Basmati Rice
This is the original and most authentic type of Basmati rice. It has long grains and a rich flavour. Traditional Basmati rice is aged for 1-2 years, which improves its flavour and ensures the grain retains its elongated shape and remains fluffy even after cooking, making it perfect for biryani and pilaf.
1121 Basmati Rice
A commonly used variety, 1121 Basmati rice is renowned for its extra-long grains (reaches 8.3mm when cooked) and delicious flavour. Its fluffy and non-sticky texture is ideal for dishes like biryani, pulao, and other dishes that require long-grains.
1509 Basmati Rice
This is one of the newer varieties of rice and has gained popularity for its long-grains and non-sticky texture. Its cooking time is not very long and ideal for everyday dishes. This boasts a delightful aroma, making it a common choice for numerous dishes.
Pusa Basmati Rice
Pusa Basmati Rice is a hybrid variety, made through scientific research. It boasts a uniform grain size, great cooking qualities, and delightful aroma. It is a great choice due to its high yields and premium quality. Its grain is much shorter than traditional basmati rice, but still retains its fragrance.
Other Varieties
The varieties are some of the most commonly used rice types, but other basmati rice offers distinct traits:
- 1718 Basmati Rice: Its grain is shorter than 1121 type, but still has delightful Basmati fragrance and great taste.
- 1401 Basmati Rice: This variety is similar to the traditional basmati rice, known for its splendid aroma and long grains.
- Brown Basmati Rice: This variety retains its bran layer, giving it a chewier texture. It is higher in fiber and nutrients compared to white Basmati, making it a better choice for those looking to increase fiber content.
- Sharbati Basmati Rice: A non-Basmati variety with great flavour and popular for its sweet taste and delicate aroma.
- Sugandha Basmati Rice: Another non-Basmati variety with fragrant aroma and long-grains. It has a soft texture, subtle flavour, making it great for everyday dishes.
Basmati rice, renowned for its delightful aroma and subtle taste, really enhances any meal. Knowing the subtleties of each variety can help you pick the ideal grain for what you are making.
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