Rice is considered a staple in cuisines around the world, with over 500 million metric tons consumed annually. While rice may seem like a basic ingredient, there are actually about 120,000 different types. Most markets don’t carry quite that many, but with all of the varieties that are available, it can still be a challenge to know which one to use for your dish. If you enjoy cooking with rice, read on to learn more about the unique characteristics of some popular types of rice.
Jasmine Rice
Jasmine rice is a long-grain rice that is commonly used in Southeast Asian cuisine, particularly Thai and Vietnamese. It has a delicate floral aroma reminiscent of, well, jasmine, and a slightly sweet flavor that adds a lovely balance to spicy dishes. Try it in stir-fries, curries, and rice-based salads.
Basmati Rice
Basmati rice is another type of long-grain rice, and it’s most often used in Indian and Middle Eastern cuisine. After it’s harvested, basmati rice is aged for about a year, which creates a distinctive nutty flavor that pairs well with savory and highly spiced dishes. Use it for biryanis, pilafs, and alongside curry dishes.
Brown Rice
Brown rice is a whole-grain rice that retains its outer germ and bran, making it heartier and more nutritious than white rice. It has a slightly earthy flavor and a slightly chewy texture that works well in grain bowls or as a side dish to some veggies and protein.
