Basmati Rice Basmati Rice You NeedAbout Premium Rice Varieties

Rice, like wine, ages gracefully with time. And if Merlot or Chardonnay are the premium varieties of wine, then basmati would be a fitting analogous pair. Basmati rice is hands down, the crown of all rice varieties. But what makes basmati rice so special? Is it because it sounds fancy? Or is it the basmati price that makes it so rare? How does basmati rice amp up the flavour of biryanis or curries?

Basmati Rice is a variety of rice that is cultivated at the foothills of the Himalayas. Its grains are long, thin, and pointed, and come in a variety of colours. According to the Directorate of Rice Development, India is the lead exporter of basmati rice globally, with the Middle East, the UK, and the US as primary import destinations.

In Hindi, the word ‘basmati’ means ‘queen of fragrance,’ and it stands true to this name. Due to its low starch content, cooked basmati rice grains are fluffy and non-sticky, with each individual grain separate from each other. Typically, basmati variety can be categorised as white and brown rice. Brown basmati is basically unmilled basmati with its husk intact. White basmati is softer and fluffier, while brown is nuttier and possesses more intense flavours. Brown basmati can be equated to whole grains.

Types of Basmati rice from India
There are so far at least 34 varieties but here are some of the best basmati rice from India:

Pusa Basmati 1121
Also known as Muchal Basmati, this type of Basmati rice from India has a long-tipped point. These rice grains are soft, slender and are served in dishes like Biryani and Pilaf. Muchal Basmati is the most widely consumed type of Basmati rice from India.

Pusa Basmati 1
The Pusa Basmati 1 is very long rice grain with a pleasant aroma. After being cooked, the rice expands four times its raw size. In comparison with other Basmati rice from India, it is well known for its easy digestibility. Pusa Basmati is also a leading product in the basmati rice wholesale market.

Ranbir Basmati
Ranbir Basmati is an old variety of rice that is usually consumed in Jammu & Kashmir and Dehradun. The grains are distinctively long, aromatic, and tasty which is why it is preferred by the local consumers. Among many types of Basmati rice from India, this one is popular among consumers in general.

Basmati 386
These rice grains are believed to double their length when cooked. The Basmati 386 is a premium type of Basmati rice from India, quite popular in the global market.

Taraori Basmati
Also known as Karnal local, the Taraori Basmati rice variety is brown basmati rice from india and prevalent in Taraori. It is regarded as the oldest Basmati rice from India. In particular, Taraori is used to cook Pilaf, and has become a popular ingredient in weddings and events feats.

Basmati 217
Among different types of Basmati Rice from India, the Basmati 217 is the newest. It is well known for its exquisite taste and appetizing aroma. The grains of the Basmati 217 are fairly long and fine.