-What is Basmati Rice?

The Basmati Rice, often known as the “Queen of Fragrance”, is a premium long-grain rice renowned for its rich delicate flavor, fragrant aroma and distinctive soft, tender, non-sticky texture. It has been cultivated for centuries in the northern regions of India and Pakistan. The defining qualities of Basmati rice are determined by the agro-climatic conditions of the given geographical area as well as the harvesting, processing and ripening techniques.

-What is Long-Grain Rice and how is it different from Short-Grain & Medium-Grain Rice?

Rice is one of the most versatile foods that is healthy and easy to prepare. The varieties of rice are vast but they all fall under three categories: Long-grain, Medium-grain and Short-grain rice.

• Long-grain Rice: It is long and thin with a length of four to five times its width. The popular types are Basmati and Jasmine rice. When cooked, it becomes fluffy, tender and dry. Long-grain rice is relatively low in starch content which makes it the best choice for the preparation of biryani, pilaf/pulao and salads.
• Medium-grain Rice: It is wider with a length of about two to three times its width. The most common types are Carnaroli and Bomba. It has more starch content than long-grain rice and it creates a slightly creamy texture when cooked slowly.
• Small-grain Rice: It is short, round, sticky and wide. The most common types are Arborio and Valencia. It has the most starch content and it clumps up when cooled. Due to its stickiness and starchiness, it is ideal for creamy puddings, sushi and desserts.

-Nutritional Value of Basmati Rice

Although nutritional value varies based on the variety of the rice, basmati rice in general is rich in carbohydrates and macronutrients such as selenium, folate and thiamine. It also contains essential nutrients such as Calcium, Magnesium, Potassium, Copper, Zinc and Vitamins B1, B3, B6, K, E. In comparison, brown basmati rice contains more calories and fiber due to its outer bran layer. 

-How to cook the perfect Basmati Rice

1. Rinse and Wash. The crucial step to make basmati rice that is fluffy, soft and light is thoroughly wash it first in order to get rid of the excess starch that can make the rice grains sticky and gummy. Use a fine mesh strainer or a bowl to swish the rice to release the starch. Rinse and repeat until the water runs clear. To make the rice softer, one can soak the rice, though it is optional.
2. Add Water. In a vessel, pour in the water and add the rice. The correct ratio of water to rice is 1 cup of rice to 1 ½ cups of water. Add salt to the rice if required to suit your taste, though it is not necessary. Cardamom pods or bay leaves can be added as well. Cover the vessel with a tight-fitting lid to let the steam cook the rice evenly and bring it to a boil.
3. Cook. Bring the heat down to a simmer and cook it until all the water content is absorbed and the rice is fluffy and airy. Continue cooking for a few more minutes or add a bit of water if the rice is too firm or grainy.
4. Allow the rice to rest then serve. Once the rice is cooked, remove the vessel from the heat and leave it undisturbed for a few minutes. After that, gently fluff it with a spatula. The rice is now ready!