Here is the list of different rice varieties in India for you to satisfy your taste buds and give your body the daily nutrients it requires
1. The King of Rice: Basmati
It is one of the most popular and sought-after rice varieties in India. Basmati rice is native to the subcontinent of India. The production of basmati rice varieties in India accounts for 75% of the total global production. Whether you want to have a plate full of biryani for lunch or want to make kheer as a dessert after dinner, basmati rice is a good pick for you!
2. The Common Taste of Indian Households: Regular White or Polished Rice
Alongside basmati, the most common type of rice that people prefer eating is regular white rice. Almost every household in India has a stock of this rice, which is rich in carbs. It is true that health experts often ask you to cut off this rice from your diet plan to ensure good health. But it is undeniable how delicious this white rice served with hot dal tastes!
3. The Fragrant Rice: Jasmine
The jasmine rice replicates the basmati rice quality in terms of taste and texture. People often use them as alternatives to get a slight change of taste. Both basmati and jasmine rice are praised for their aroma. In India, people are somehow inclined towards Thai cuisine, and no other rice variety than jasmine goes with those dishes.
4. The Affordable Rice: Mogra
Mogra is among the cheapest rice varieties in the market. Upon seeing these rice grains in their raw form, you will find them smaller, just like regular white rice. But once you cook them, you will see they become longer and fluffier, giving you the look of basmati. Pulaos or veg biryanis are spoiled with the use of mogra rice. And it tastes amazing!
5. The Hand Pounded Rice: Indrayani
Maharashtra’s western region dominates the production of Indrayani rice. It comes with medium-sized grains that turn out to be sticky if not cooked properly. The cooking time for this variety of rice is very low, which demands you to be pretty quick in turning off the stove, in comparison to other rice varieties. Moreover, you get a very sweet aroma upon cooking Indian rice.
6. The South Indian’s Favorite Rice: Kolam
The kolam rice variety has very small grains that are spongy in texture and emits a floral aroma upon being cooked. The people in the South of India are fond of sweet Pongal, which is made mostly using kolam rice. Moreover, it is also used in the daily cooking routine as well! What’s best about this rice variety is the glycaemic index is lower, making it suitable for patients with diabetes or high blood sugar problems.