Last Updated on January 6, 2024

Have you ever stood in the supermarket aisle entirely overwhelmed by the different types of rice options? Rice, an adaptable crop grown on every continent except Antarctica, is more than just a side dish.

In this blog post, we’ll guide you through different kinds of rice, their unique characteristics, and cooking methods to help you choose the perfect grain for your culinary adventure.

Common Rice Varieties

1. Basmati Rice

Basmati Rice is a popular long-grain rice that holds a prestigious position in the culinary world. It hails from India and Pakistan.

This unique grain is soaked before cooking to maximize length, achieving grains often twice their original size!

Basmati grains are long and perfect for dishes that demand separate fluffy grains or those swimming in flavorful sauces used in Indian cuisines, like Biryani.

The brown – which is classed as whole grain rice, offers better nutritional values, including aiding digestion due to its rich fiber content.

2. Jasmine Rice

Jasmine rice is a fragrant long-grain rice that originates from Thailand.

This Asian rice gets its name from being a sweet rice with a floral aroma reminiscent of jasmine flowers. It has a slightly buttery flavor that complements a wide range of cuisines.

3. Long-Grain White Rice

Long-grain white rice is one of the most popular and widely consumed in America. It is characterized by its long, slender grains that stay separate and fluffy when cooked.

It has a mild flavor and a slightly chewy texture, making it versatile for various dishes.

This rice grain variety provides an excellent base for any meal, such as rice pilaf. Not only is it easy to cook, but it also pairs well with different flavors and seasonings.

4. Long-Grain Brown Rice

Brown rice is a wholesome medium grain rice option that many health-conscious individuals.

Unlike some rice that has been partially stripped of its bran and germ, It is nutty-flavored and has a chewy texture that adds depth to any dish.

With its high fiber content, brown rice keeps you feeling full for longer periods. 

5. Black Rice or Forbidden Rice

Black Rice, or Forbidden Rice, is a unique and exotic rice that has gained popularity in recent years.

It gets its striking dark color from the pigmentation in the bran layers called anthocyanins, which are also found in purple grapes, blueberries, and blackberries.

Black rice can be used in various dishes, including stir-fries, salads, porridges, and even desserts like puddings or cakes. 

6. Bomba, Calasparra or Valencia Rice

Bomba, Calasparra, and Valencia rice are all short-grained rice varieties known for their ability to absorb flavors and remain firm during cooking.

Bomba rice is native to Spain and is often used in traditional paella recipes due to its high absorption capacity. It has a slightly nutty flavor and a firm texture that holds up well with other ingredients.

Calasparra rice also hails from Spain, specifically the region of Murcia. Similar to Bomba rice.

It is commonly used in paellas and other Spanish dishes. Calasparra rice has a shorter grain size than Bomba but still maintains its sturdiness when cooked.

Valencia rice, as the name suggests, comes from the province of Valencia in Spain. It is known for its ability to soak up liquids while retaining its shape and texture.

These varieties have become popular because they provide a delightful textural element that pairs perfectly with various cuisines, such as Mediterranean and Asian stir-fries, and are even used to make risottos.

7. Arborio Rice and Carnaroli Rice

Arborio and Carnaroli rice are two popular types of short-grain rice that originated in Italy.

Arborio rice is named after the town of Arborio, while Carnaroli takes its name from the town of Vercelli.

These rice are known for their unique characteristics and are commonly used in Italian cuisine, particularly for making risotto and rice pudding.

They are perfect for dishes where the starch is released during cooking, creating a rich and velvety sauce.

Both are also great absorbers of flavors, meaning they can easily take on the taste of whatever ingredients they are cooked with. This versatility allows you to create many different flavor combinations with this rice.

The subtle differences between Arborio and Carnaroli lie in their texture and ability to absorb liquid. While both produce creamy results, Arborio tends to have a slightly creamier texture.

8. Short-Grain Rice 

Short-grain rice is a popular variety that has a round and plump grain.

It is known for its sticky and chewy texture, making it perfect for dishes like sushi or risotto.

Short-grain rice can absorb more liquid than other types, resulting in a creamy and flavorful dish. This is the rice that is most commonly used in Asian cuisine, especially Japanese dishes like sushi rolls or onigiri.

It also works well as a side dish or in desserts like rice pudding. Short-grain rice is versatile and easy to cook, providing a satisfying meal every time.

9. Sticky Rice or Glutinous Rice

Sticky rice or glutinous rice is a popular variety known for its sticky and chewy texture. It is used in a variety of Asian dishes like sushi, rice puddings, and sticky rice cakes. 

The grains are short and plump, with a pearly white color when cooked. Sticky rice is often soaked before cooking to achieve the desired texture.

It pairs well with savory sauces and toppings, making it perfect for creating delicious and satisfying meals.

10. Parboiled Rice

Parboiled rice is rice that undergoes a special steam-pressure process before it is milled. This process helps to retain more nutrients in the grain.

One interesting fact about this rice is that it actually contains more fiber than white, which can aid in digestion and promote feelings of fullness.

11. Wild Rice

Wild rice is a type of unique and versatile variety that adds a nutty flavor and chewy texture to any dish.

Unlike other types, wild rice is actually not rice at all but rather the seed of an aquatic grass native to North America. It has long grains that range in color from black to dark brown.

This nutritious grain can be used in wild rice soups, salads, stir-fries, or even as a side dish on its own.

12. Red Rice 

Red rice refers to types that have a reddish or deep red or bran color. These rice are often considered to be more nutritious than white or brown rice.

Some popular red varieties include Bhutanese, Thai, Camargue, and Himalayan red rice.

These varieties are often used in traditional cuisines and are known for their distinct flavor and textures.

13. Japonica Rice

Japonica rice is a type of rice that originates from Japan. It is one of the major rice varieties cultivated and consumed globally.

It is known for its short and round grain shape, sticky texture, and slightly sweet flavor.

It is often used to make sushi and other traditional Japanese dishes, but it is also popular in other Asian cuisines.

There are different sub-varieties of this rice, such as Koshihikari, which is highly prized for its quality and taste.

14. Indica Rice

Indica rice varieties are a group of rice cultivars that originated in India and are commonly grown in South and Southeast Asia.

They are characterized by their long and slender grains and tend to have a lower amylose content, which makes them stickier when cooked.

Different Rice Recipes and the Characteristics of Each Type of Rice 

Rice comes in a wide variety of types, each with its own unique characteristics and uses.

Basmati rice grains are perfect for dishes like Biryani or pilaf.

Jasmine rice has a delicate floral fragrance that pairs well with Asian cuisines, such as stir-fries or curries.

If you prefer a fluffier texture, long-grain rice is your go-to choice. It’s versatile and pairs well with almost any dish, whether it’s a hearty stew or a light salad.

Brown rice’s nutty flavor works well in grain bowls or alongside roasted vegetables.

For something visually striking, black rice is perfect with its deep purple hue that adds an elegant touch to salads or sushi rolls.

Bomba, Calasparra, or Valencia rice are ideal options for paella due to their ability to absorb flavors while retaining their shape.

Arborio and Carnaroli are two popular choices for risotto due to their high starch content that creates that creamy consistency we all love.

Short-grain rice is stickier when cooked and perfect for sushi rolls or desserts like rice pudding.

Sticky or glutinous rice makes it great for traditional dishes like Thai mango sticky rice dessert. 

How to Cook Varied Types of Rice

Cooking rice may seem like a simple task, but each type requires slightly different cooking methods to achieve the perfect texture and flavor.

Let’s take a look at how to cook some popular varieties of rice.

For basmati or jasmine rice, start by rinsing the grains under cold water until the water runs clear.

This helps remove excess starch for fluffier results. Then, combine one cup of rice with one and a half cups of water in a saucepan.

Bring it to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover with a tight-fitting lid.

Cook for about 15-20 minutes until all the liquid is absorbed and the grains are tender.

Brown rice requires a longer cooking time due to its outer bran layer that contains essential nutrients.

Start by rinsing one cup of brown rice under cold water. Next, combine two cups of water or broth with the rinsed rice in a pot. Bring it to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover tightly with a lid.

Simmer for around 45-50 minutes until all the liquid is absorbed and the grains are chewy yet tender.

If you’re cooking wild rice, rinse half of it thoroughly before combining it with one-and-a-half cups of boiling water in a saucepan. Reduce heat to low, cover tightly, and let simmer for about 40-45 minutes until each grain pops open.

Tips for Buying and Storing the Common Types of Rice

When buying rice, it’s important to consider a few factors to ensure you’re getting the best quality.

First, check the packaging for any signs of damage or holes that could allow moisture and pests to enter.

It’s also a good idea to look for rice in opaque bags or containers, as exposure to light can affect its freshness and quality.

Another tip is to read the label carefully and choose varieties that suit your preferences, dietary needs, your cooking style and complement your dishes.

Store your rice in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and strong odors.

Consider transferring it into an airtight container to protect against moisture and pests. Remember that each type of rice has a varying shelf life.

While white rice can last up to 4-5 years when stored properly, brown rice has a shorter shelf life due to its higher oil content.

In A Nutshell

The world of rice is vast and diverse, offering a wide range of options for every taste and preference.

Whether you enjoy the fragrant aroma of Basmati rice or the sticky texture of glutinous rice, there is a type of rice to suit everyone’s needs.

Experiment with different varieties to discover your favorite and elevate your culinary creations to new heights.

So go ahead, and embrace the versatility and richness that each type of rice brings to your meals.