From Basmati to Black Rice: India’s Top 10 Rice Varieties You Need to Try!

Rice is the staple food of India, and it is home to a wide variety of rice, each with its unique flavor. India is one of the largest producers of rice after China. This article will explore the top ten rice varieties in India.

Basmati rice

Basmati rice, A globally popular long-grained rice variety from India, has a distinct aroma with a subtle nutty and spicy flavor. The word basmati translates to ‘fragrance’ in Hindi. It is primarily grown in northern India, such as Haryana, Punjab, and Jammu & Kashmir.

Jasmine Rice

Jasmine rice originated from Thailand and other Eastern Asian countries and has a fragrance of flowers and buttered popcorn with a nutty flavor. It is high in fiber, which can help regulate blood sugar levels and manage weight.

Brown Rice

Brown rice, which originated mainly from China and India, is a whole grain with the bran, germ, and endosperm in its original form, which is removed by processing it into white rice. By which it retains all the fibre, vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy option.Wide varieties of brown rice are now available in India from different regions, such as Chitti Mutyalu rice from Andhra Pradesh, Matta rice, or Palakkadan Matta from Kerala.

Black Rice

Black rice, also known as purple or forbidden rice, is widely consumed in Asian countries like China, Sri Lanka, and India. Black rice tends to have a nutty flavor and chewy texture. The dark pigment in black rice contains anthocyanins, which are said to reduce the risk of heart diseases and have anti-inflammatory properties.

It is rich in protein and contains a boost of nutrients, such as vitamin E, calcium and potassium, making it an excellent choice for weight loss. 

Sona Masuri

Sona Masuri is a widespread variety of rice primarily grown in the southern states of India. Its name is derived from the Hindi word Sona, meaning gold, and Masoori, referring to its origin in the Masuri region in Andhra Pradesh. It is rich in carbohydrates, which provide energy for daily activities.

Bamboo Rice

Bamboo rice, or ‘Mulayari’, is grown from dried bamboo shoots rich in carbohydrates, fiber, protein, antioxidants, and palmitic and linoleic acids. 

It is beneficial for joint pain, back pain, and rheumatic pain. Regular consumption of bamboo rice also helps lower cholesterol levels. Also, it has anti-diabetic properties.

White Rice

White Rice, originating in Asia, particularly in countries like China and India, is a polished rice grain with the husk, bran, and germ removed. This widely consumed staple food is a primary component of many diets around the world. While it is lower in protein and fiber compared to whole grain varieties, white rice is a good source of carbohydrates for quick energy.

Mogra Rice

Mogra Rice, also known as “Jeerakasala” or “Kaima Rice,” originates from the southern regions of India, particularly Kerala and parts of Tamil Nadu. It known for its unique taste and aroma.Mogra Rice is relatively low in protein compared to other types of rice, with around 6-8 grams of protein per 100 grams. However, it is rich in carbohydrates, providing a good source of energy. It also contains essential nutrients like iron and dietary fiber, beneficial for overall health.

Kala Jeera Rice

Originating from the Indian subcontinent, Kaala Jeera Rice, also known as “Black Cumin Rice,” is a distinctive rice variety valued for its nutty flavor and aroma reminiscent of cumin seeds. This rice is popular in North Indian cuisine, especially in Punjab and Haryana, where it is used to create flavorful dishes such as jeera rice, biryanis, and pilafs. While it contains less protein compared to some other grains, Kaala Jeera Rice offers a good source of carbohydrates, making it a staple for energy-rich meals.

Red Rice

Red Rice, originating in Asia, particularly in countries like India, Sri Lanka, and Bhutan, is a whole grain rice with a reddish husk and a nutty flavor. This nutritious rice variety is widely consumed across these regions, prized for its health benefits. It contains more protein and fiber compared to white rice, making it a healthier option.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. How many types of rice are there in India?

There are approximately 6000 varieties of different rice in India.

2. What is the most popular rice in India?

Basmati is one of the most popular variety of rice in India.

3. What color is rice naturally?

Rice naturally comes in shades of white, ranging from translucent to opaque. When the bran layer is retained, as in brown rice, it has a light tan or brown color. The exact hue can differ depending on the variety of rice.

4. What rice has the lowest carbs?

Wild rice has fewer carbs than regular rice. In one cup (164 grams) of cooked wild rice, there are 32 grams of net carbs. Also, wild rice is packed with healthy antioxidants.

5. Does rice make your belly fat?

Consuming rice by itself doesn’t lead to belly fat. However, eating excessive amounts of rice, especially refined white rice in large portions, can contribute to weight gain, including fat accumulation around the belly. It’s important to maintain moderation and balance rice consumption with other healthy foods in your diet.