admin The aroma and taste of well-cooked and finger-licking biryani is probably the fondest culinary memory for many of us. But what’s the main ingredient that does all the magic? For many, it could be spice blends, but for us, it’s the aromatic long-grained best basmati rice. While biryani from a restaurant or street-side shop tastes amazing, it can also be costly. But you can make biryani at home with just three key ingredients; all you need is the best basmati rice, spice mix, and meat or vegetables of your choice.
The taste and aroma of your biryani depend greatly on the quality of rice you choose for it. But how can you ensure that you choose the best basmati rice for your biryani as there are over 29 varieties of basmati rice? Additionally, there are plenty of best basmati rice brands that further make it more complex.
But to help you out, we have come up with this guide. It will not only help you choose the best basmati rice but also familiarize you with the types of basmati rice, its benefits, nutritional content, and the recipe to make the perfect non-sticky basmati rice. So, come on let’s get started!
What Is Basmati Rice and How Is It Different From Other Varieties?
Basmati rice is a type of rice that has long grains, a fluffy texture, and a pleasant aroma. It is mainly produced in northern India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Iran, with India being the largest producer of basmati rice in the world, accounting for about 70% of the global production.
The rice is grown in moist and fertile lands, either artificially irrigated or naturally flooded by the monsoon rains. The Punjab region in northern India is one of the most suitable areas for growing this rice variety.
Basmati rice differs from other rice varieties in several aspects, such as:
The Indian Government Agency APEDA, which regulates the export of basmati rice, has set some criteria for a rice variety to be called basmati.
One requirement is that the rice should have a minimum average precooked milled length of 6.61 mm and a maximum average precooked milled breadth of 2 mm. However, these are not the only requirements, and different countries that produce basmati rice may have their own standards.
Is Basmati Rice Healthy?
Yes, basmati rice is a healthy rice variety with low calories and high vitamins. Below is the nutritional value of the cooked basmati rice.
Nutritional Facts for Basmati Rice
| Nutrition Value (Per 163 grams of serving) | |
| Calories | 210 |
| Protein | 4.4 grams |
| Fat | 0.5 grams |
| Protein | 4.4 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 45.6 grams |
| Fiber | 0.7 grams |
| Sodium | 399 mg |
| Folate | 24% of the Daily Value (DV) |
| Thiamine | 22% of the DV |
| Selenium | 22% of the DV |
| Copper | 12% of the DV |
| Iron | 11% of the DV |
| Vitamin B6 | 9% of the DV |
| Zinc | 7% of the DV |
| Phosphorus | 6% of the DV |
| Magnesium | 5% of the DV |
What Are The Finest Varieties of the Best Basmati Rice?
While the varieties of the best basmati rice span over 29, all of them come under four broader types. So, let’s take a look at them:
Classic Basmati Rice
This is the most popular and widely available variety of basmati rice. It has slender and white grains that can grow up to twice their original size when cooked. It has a sweet and floral aroma that becomes more pronounced after cooking.
It is the best basmati rice for biryani, whether it’s Lucknowi or Hyderabadi. Classic basmati rice is also ideal for other rice dishes that require the grains to be separate and fluffy, such as pulao, fried rice, and curries.
Sella Basmati Rice
This is also known as Parboiled Basmati Rice, as it undergoes a special process of soaking, steaming, and drying the grains in their husks before removing them. This process helps to retain more nutrients and minerals in the rice, as well as to make it more durable and resistant to breaking.
Sella basmati rice has a firm and slightly hard texture, which makes it suitable for dishes that need a longer cooking time or that require the grains to hold their shape. It is often used for biryanis and pulao, which are cooked in a sealed pot or oven.
Brown Basmati Rice
This is the least processed variety of basmati rice, as it retains its bran layer, which is the outer covering of the grain. This gives it a nutty flavor and a chewy texture, as well as a light brown or tan color.
Brown basmati rice is a healthy and nutritious option, as it contains more fiber, vitamins, and minerals than white rice. It is a good choice for salads and grain bowls or as a side dish for grilled or roasted foods. It also adds a wholesome element to your meal.
Aged Basmati Rice
This is a premium variety of basmati rice that has been stored for a long period of time, usually between one and two years. As the rice ages, it develops a deeper aroma and a firmer texture. The grains also appear slightly yellow, and they are a bit longer than the fresh ones.
Aged basmati rice has a distinctive flavor and texture, which makes it a special ingredient for dishes that need a rich and aromatic touch. It pairs well with flavorful and fragrant dishes, such as pulao, biryanis, and kheer.
Besides the above-mentioned categories, other popular varieties of Indian basmati rice include –
- Basmati 217
- Basmati 370
- Type 3 (Dehraduni Basmati)
- Punjab Basmati 1 (Bauni Basmati)
- Pusa Basmati 1
- Kasturi, Haryana Basmati 1
- Mahi Sugandha
- Taraori Basmati
- Ranbir Basmati
- Basmati 386
- Improved Pusa Basmati 1 (Pusa 1460)
- Pusa Basmati 1121
- Vallabh Basmati 22
- Pusa Basmati 6 (Pusa 1401),
- Punjab Basmati 2
- Basmati CSR 30
- Malviya Basmati Dhan
- Vallabh Basmati 21
- Pusa Basmati 1509
- Basmati 564
- Vallabh Basmati 23
- Vallabh Basmati 24
- Pusa Basmati 1609
- Pant Basmati 1 (IET 21665)
- Pant Basmati 2 (IET 21953)
- Punjab Basmati 3
- Pusa Basmati 1637
- Pusa Basmati 1728
- Pusa Basmati 1718
- Punjab Basmati 4
- Punjab Basmati 5
- Haryana Basmati 2
- Pusa Basmati 1692
How to Choose the Best Basmati Rice?
So, now that you know the different varieties of basmati rice, choosing the best one for your kitchen has become easier than ever. Here are some tips if you still need help selecting the best basmati rice.
#Tip 1 Smell the Rice before Buying It
Good basmati rice has a distinctive aroma that is pleasant and nutty. If the rice has no smell or a bad smell, avoid it. Some dealers may sell fake basmati rice in the name of real ones.
#Tip 2 Check the Color of the Rice
Good basmati rice has a light golden color, which indicates that it has aged properly. It should not have any grey or dull tones, which may indicate poor quality or adulteration.
#Tip 3 Look at the Length and Shape of the Rice Grains
Good basmati rice has long and slender grains that are tapered at the ends. The longer the grain, the higher the quality and price of the rice. The Indian government recommends a minimum grain length of 3.5mm for basmati rice.
#Tip 4 Find Out the Age of the Rice
Good basmati rice is aged for at least a year, which enhances its flavor and aroma. Aged rice also cooks better and does not stick together. The older the rice, the better it is.
#Tip 5 Check the Purity Percentage of the Rice
Good basmati rice has a high purity percentage, which means that it has very few impurities, dirt, or foreign matter. The Indian government specifies that the foreign matter should not exceed 6% of the total weight of the rice.
How to Cook The Best Basmati Rice?
Cooking basmati rice is the easiest and the most difficult task at the same time. Perfectly cooked basmati rice refers to the ones that are fluffy and non-sticking. If you also want to cook the perfect basmati rice, here’s a quick and step-wise instructions to get started.
Ingredients
- 3 cups long-grain white Basmati rice
- Salt as per taste
- 12 cups of water
- 1 tbsp butter or ghee
- 3 tbsp vegetable oil
Cooking Instructions for Basmati Rice
- Start by filling the pot with water and bringing it to a boil over high heat. Then, add the salt to the water and stir well.
- Next, add the rice and gently mix it with a spoon to prevent clumping. Cook the rice for about 15 minutes or until it is soft on the outside and firm on the inside. You can check the doneness by squeezing a grain of rice between your fingers.
- When the rice is done, drain it in a colander and rinse it with cold water to stop the cooking process. Let the rice drain completely before returning it to the pot. Meanwhile, wash and dry the pot.
- If you have a heat diffuser, place it over the burner on your stove. Then, add the oil and butter to the pot and lower the heat to medium-low.
- Cover the pot with a towel-wrapped lid and let it steam for 45 minutes to an hour.
- Enjoy your delicious basmati rice dish!
A List of the 5 Best Basmati Rice Brands
There are many of the best basmati rice brands in India with different prices and qualities. Some may have higher quality, lower arsenic levels, or better aroma than others. Here is a list of the five best basmati rice brands that you can buy online or in stores.
Daawat Rozana
This is the best basmati rice brand in India because it has the lowest arsenic levels and is non-GMO. It is also organic and gluten-free, making it suitable for people with dietary restrictions. The rice is grown in North India and has a fluffy and light texture. It is also easy to cook and comes in a resealable pouch.
India Gate Basmati Rice
This is the best brown basmati rice brand because it is aged for two years, which enhances its flavor and aroma. It is also organic and non-GMO and has a nutty and earthy taste. The rice is sourced from the foothills of the Himalayas and has a long and slender grain. It is also rich in fiber and antioxidants, making it a healthy choice.
Lal Qilla
This is the best basmati rice brand for aroma because it has a floral and fragrant smell that fills the kitchen. It is also organic and has a soft and fluffy texture. The rice is grown in India and has a pearl white color. It is also easy to prepare and comes in 1 kg, 5 kg, and 10 kg packing.
Kohinoor
This is the best basmati rice brand for biryani because it has a long and extra-long grain that does not stick together. It is also aged for more than a year, which gives it a rich and authentic flavor. The rice is sourced from India and Pakistan and has a golden hue. It is also hygienically packed and comes in a vacuum-sealed pouch.
Tilda
This is the best basmati rice brand for convenience because it has a ready-made variety that can be microwaved in 2 minutes. It is also gluten-free and vegetarian and has a lemon and herb flavor. The rice is grown in India and has a delicate and fluffy texture.
Conclusion
If you ever had basmati rice, you surely know how delicious and mouth-watering it is with its distinct aroma and flavor. However, choosing the best basmati rice brand can be tricky, as there are many factors to consider, such as quality, origin, grain size, color, texture, and taste.
To help you make the right decision, we have provided you with the ultimate guide to choosing the best basmati rice brand. We have reviewed the top 5 basmati rice brands based on their features, benefits, and drawbacks.
We have also given you some tips on how to cook and store basmati rice properly. We hope that this guide will help you find the best basmati rice brand.
