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    Home » General

    Jan 8, 2023 by Emily · Leave a Comment

    What is Basmati Rice

    Basmati rice is such a tender and aromatic rice that is simple to make and a perfect addition to many different dishes.

    A bowl of cooked basmati rice.
    Jump to:
    • What is basmati rice?
    • Varieties of Basmati Rice
    • Difference Between Basmati Rice and Jasmine Rice
    • How to Cook Basmati Rice
    • What does basmati rice taste like?
    • How do I store basmati rice?
    • What is Basmati Rice Used For?
    • FAQ
    • Recipes Using Basmati Rice

    There are so many different types of rice to choose from when it comes to cooking. Basmati rice is one of these.

    Basmati rice is an aromatic rice that is neutral in taste. This makes it great to use in many different recipes.

    You could use basmati rice as a side dish to curries, or even use it as a main ingredient in fried rice, or biryani.

    What is basmati rice?

    There are three main classifications of rice by size, these are long grain, medium grain, and short grain.

    Basmati rice is considered a long grain rice.

    Traditionally, basmati rice is produced in India and Pakistan.  

    When cooked, basmati rice should be fluffy, soft, and have a light fragrant aroma.

    The rice grains should not stick together when cooked and should easily separate from each other.

    Uncooked basmati rice in a bowl with a small wooden scoop.

    Varieties of Basmati Rice

    The two most common types of basmati rice are brown basmati rice and white basmati rice.

    There are many varieties of brown and white basmati rice, and there is also red basmati rice.

    Brown basmati rice has a nuttier flavor, a slightly firmer texture, and has more fibre. It also takes a bit longer to cook than white basmati rice.

    The most common variety of basmati rice that is used in cooking is white basmati rice.

    Bagara rice in a black bowl.
    Bagara rice uses white basmati rice.

    Different varieties of basmati rice can vary in length and size.

    For example, Pusa Basmati – 1 has extra long grains.

    The variety of white basmati, basmati 386, can become double its length when cooked.

    Difference Between Basmati Rice and Jasmine Rice

    Jasmine rice and basmati rice both are considered long grain rice types.

    While jasmine rice is similar in fragrance to basmati rice, when cooked, jasmine rice is stickier in texture.

    Also, the grains of jasmine rice are shorter and more rounded than basmati rice.

    You will find that when you cook jasmine rice, the rice grains stick together, while with basmati rice this is not the case.

    Jasmine rice is commonly grown in Southeast Asia, including in Vietnam, Thailand, and Cambodia.

    A plate of cooked basmati rice and a plate of cooked jasmine rice.
    Left: cooked basmati rice. Right: Cooked jasmine rice.

    How to Cook Basmati Rice

    Cooking basmati rice is easy and can be cooked in many different ways.

    You could cook basmati rice on the stovetop, in a pressure cooker, in a rice cooker, or even in the microwave.

    Regardless of how you cook your basmati rice, be sure to first rinse and then drain you rice before cooking.

    Rinse basmati rice in room temperature water until the water runs clear. Then, drain all remaining liquid.

    Cooked basmati rice in a pot, with a rice spoon.

    When you cook basmati rice, add room temperature instead of using hot water.

    This way, the grains of rice will cook more evenly.

    If you add hot water to your uncooked basmati rice, the outside of the rice grains will cook quicker than the inside of the grains.

    What does basmati rice taste like?

    Basmati rice has a slight nutty flavor.

    When basmati rice is cooked properly, the texture of the rice is tender but slightly firm, and the grains of the rice are not sticky.

    How do I store basmati rice?

    Uncooked basmati rice is best stored in a cool, dry, place.

    The rice can be left in its original packaging as long as the packaging can be tightly sealed.

    You can also store uncooked basmati rice in an airtight plastic or glass container.

    To store cooked basmati rice, place it in an air tight container once cool and place it in the fridge for 2 to 3 days.

    Storing the rice any longer and the rice may become gritty and dry out, making it unpleasant to eat.

    What is Basmati Rice Used For?

    Basmati rice goes great with many different dishes. You could serve basmati rice as a side dish to curries, or even pan fried meats.

    Basmati rice can also be used as the main ingredient in a dish, such as fried rice, biryani, or pilaffs.

    Fried rice with char siu meat in a white bowl.
    Char siu fried rice.

    FAQ

    Is basmati rice a short grain?

    No, basmati rice is not a short grain rice. Basmati rice is considered a long grain rice because of the size of its grains.

    Does basmati rice have gluten?

    No, it does not.

    Where is basmati rice grown?

    Basmati rice is typically grown in Indian and Pakistan.

    Recipes Using Basmati Rice

    Below, you will find a variety of different recipes that use basmati rice which you could make any time of the year.

    Some of these recipes make a great easy weeknight meal, or even are perfect to serve to a savory breakfast.

    Char Siu Fried Rice

    Fried rice with char siu on a round white plate.
    Skip going for takeaway and enjoy this char siu fried rice at home instead. It tastes great, easy to make, and is perfect for a family meal.
    Get the recipe here!

    Jeera Rice

    Close up image of cumin rice with spices and chili.
    Fluffy, soft, and simple jeera rice. An easy one pot dish packed full of flavor. Great for an easy weeknight dinner or lunch.
    Get the recipe here!

    Chicken Pulao

    Chicken pulao in a round silver serving dish.
    Chicken pulao is a simple one-pot chicken and rice dish made with mild Indian flavors. 
    Get the recipe here!

    How To Cook Basmati Rice On The Stovetop

    Cooked basmati rice in a shallow white bowl on a woven coaster.
    Easy to make basmati rice on the stovetop. Ready in about 30 minutes, this basmati rice recipe makes fluffy basmati rice.
    Get the recipe here!

    Tuna Fried Rice

    Tuna fried rice in a black bowl garnished with spring (green) onions.
    Tuna fried rice is a simple and easy recipe which is perfect for lunch, dinner parties, or even as a side dish.
    Get the recipe here!

    Singapore Fried Rice

    Rice with spices and chicken on a plate.
    Rice with a spicy twist. Singapore fried rice, quick, easy, and absolutely delicious!
    Get the recipe here!

    Bagara Rice

    Rice in a bowl.
    Bagara rice. The right amount of spicy without the fuss. Turn ordinary basmati rice into something extraordinary.
    Get the recipe here!

    Instant Pot Basmati Rice

    A bowl of basmati rice with a wooden spoon on top of the rice.
    Instant pot basmati rice is a quick and easy way to cook rice with little cleaning up required. Simply place all ingredients in your Instant Pot, adjust the settings, and cook. It’s that easy.
    Get the recipe here!

    Spam Fried Rice Recipe

    Spam fried rice on a white plate.
    Love spam and fried rice? Well, then you are sure to love this easy spam fried rice recipe. It's family friendly and is ready in no time!
    Get the recipe here!

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    Hi, I'm Emily! There's much more to rice than just cooking it on the stove. It's so versatile and you can create so many beautiful dishes with it. From puddings and desserts to main meals and even finger foods. There is something for everyone!

    More about me →

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