9 Popular Rice Varieties in India

Rice is the staple food of India and an integral part of its culinary traditions. With a diverse range of climates and terrains, India is blessed with a variety of rice cultivars, each offering unique flavours, textures, and aromas.

Here are the nine popular rice varieties in India:

1. Basmati Rice

Known for its extraordinary fragrance, Basmati rice is long-grain rice that hails from the Himalayan foothills. It has a delicate, nutty aroma and a light, fluffy texture, making it perfect for biryani, pulao, and pilaf.

2. Sona Masuri Rice

Sona Masuri rice is a medium-grain, aromatic variety primarily grown in Southern India. It is prized for its soft and slightly sticky texture, making it a preferred choice for everyday meals.

3. Jasmine Rice

Jasmine rice, often referred to as Thai fragrant rice, is cultivated in parts of India, particularly in the northeastern states. It has a subtle floral aroma and a tender, moist texture, ideal for pairing with curries and stir-fried dishes.

4. Kolam Rice

Kolam rice, predominantly grown in Tamil Nadu, is a small-grain variety with excellent cooking properties. This rice is cherished for its sticky nature, making it the preferred choice for making South Indian delicacies like idlis and dosas.

5. Ponni Rice

Ponni rice is another South Indian favourite, known for its light and fluffy texture. It is versatile and can be used for various dishes, including steam-cooked idlis, crispy dosas, and fluffy rice-based sweets.

6. Jeera Samba Rice

Jeera Samba rice, as the name suggests, has a natural aroma reminiscent of cumin (jeera). Grown in Tamil Nadu, it's a medium-grain rice often used in making pulav, biryani, and other flavourful dishes.

7. Biryani Rice

Biryani rice is a specially cultivated, long-grain variety for making the famous Indian dish, biryani. It remains separate and fluffy after cooking, absorbing the spices and flavours of the biryani ingredients.

8. Red Rice

Red rice is less polished and more nutritious than white rice, featuring a reddish-brown bran layer. It's a healthier option used in traditional recipes, especially in regions like Kerala and the Northeast.

9. Ambemohar Rice

Ambemohar rice is a fragrant, short-grain rice grown primarily in the state of Maharashtra. It has a unique mango-like aroma and is preferred for making traditional sweets like "puran poli" and "kheer."

These are just a few examples of India’s rich rice variety. Each rice variety brings its own distinct qualities, ensuring a wide array of options for Indian cuisine enthusiasts. Whether you're cooking a fragrant biryani, enjoying a simple plate of steamed rice, or experimenting with regional specialties, the diversity of Indian rice varieties caters to every palate and culinary need.