The vast majority of rice types exist today, but basmati rice is by far the most ideal for the
Mediterranean diet and cuisine. It is characterized by its long, thin grains that lengthen when
cooking and is a staple food in many cultures.
Basmati rice is a popular rice variety around the world and is grown widely in India and
Pakistan. Basmati rice is probably the most important grain in the world, even if it is not as
favorite and popular in the Western world as it is in other countries. And when it comes to the
Mediterranean diet, the basmati rice crop takes center stage. We will explore the origins of
basmati rice and learn about the many benefits associated with it to help us learn why it is so
popular around the world.
What is Basmati Rice?
Basmati means "fragrant" in Hindi, referring to the smell it takes on when cooked. The fragrant
basmati rice is also called popcorn rice due to its distinctive aroma. Basmati rice comes from
the foothills of the mountain chain and is traditionally used in South Asian and Indian cuisines.
Two-thirds of the world's Basmati is grown in India. The rice may be served with curries,
cooked meats, or used as a foundation for traditional biryani. Generally, the rice is spiced with
turmeric or saffron to give it its yellow color. Having a distinctive nutty flavor and a slight floral
aroma, it offers similar qualities to jasmine rice. However, jasmine rice and basmati rice are not
the same. According to APEDA, a rice variety can be labeled Basmati if its precooked length
reaches 6.1 mm and its breadth reaches 2 mm, as the main parameters.
Varieties of Basmati Rice
In general, there are two types of basmati rice: white and brown. The most popular type of
basmati rice is white, but brown basmati may also be found at most stores. During
production, the white version is obtained by removing the bran from the germ and leaving only
its white starchy portion. Brown rice has a nuttier flavor and a stiffer texture. It is also higher in
fiber and has a stronger flavor. Compared to white rice, brown rice requires a longer cooking
time.
Basmati is one of the longest grains of rice, and its length usually increases during cooking.
Additionally, it is quite narrow with pointy ends rather than round or short.
Many hybrid varieties of this rice are available today. One such variety is Texmati,
developed in Texas. However, Pakistan and India are the only countries that sell pure basmati
rice.
History of Basmati Rice
In history, basmati rice has been the main course on the royal menus of many cultures. Rice
dishes become extraordinary meals with basmati rice. Also known as the”Queen of Rice”,
basmati is considered by Ayurveda to be sattvic or pure, healthy for body tissues, and easy
to digest.
The Indian subcontinent has produced Basmati rice for centuries. Basmati Rice first appears in
history books in 1766. Basmati was introduced to the Middle East by Indian traders, and it
has since become a staple of Persian, Arab, and other cuisines. Basmati rice is exclusively
produced in Asia by India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. Irrigation for basmati crop fields is
provided by the rivers Yamuna and Sutlej in Haryana and Punjab, respectively.
It is necessary to age Basmati rice properly to reduce its moisture content in order to achieve
its correct aroma and flavor. Long grain basmati rice is one of the most popular varieties in India
and has been grown in the Himalayan foothills. In fact, the best basmati rice dish is found in the
old Karnal district of India. Basmati is now grown in the districts of Karnal, Kaithal, Panipat, and
Kurukshetra. Additionally, it is grown in Punjab, Dehradoon in Uttaranchal, and Jammu in
Jammu and Kashmir.
Benefits of Basmati Rice
Many believe the glycemic index of rice can contribute to weight gain, high blood sugar levels,
etc. However, comparing basmati and non-basmati, the basmati variety has many health benefits. It is considered by Ayurveda to be balancing the three doshas of Pitta, Vata, and Kapha. The benefits of basmati include balancing the mind and body, as it is deemed sattvic or pure. Ayurvedically, basmati promotes the building of rasa or body tissue, as well as being a rich source of prana. While it is
highly nourishing, it is easy to digest and works as a comfort food when you are ill.
Let us explore the many benefits of Basmati.
- Low arsenic content
Those who regularly consume rice are most likely to be concerned about arsenic concentrations
because rice accumulates more arsenic than other grains. Moreover, arsenic is a heavy metal that can
harmfully affect your health and possibly increase your risk of diabetes, heart disease, and
cancer. According to research studies, it contains exceptionally low levels of arsenic
as compared to other rice varieties. However, arsenic is more prevalent in brown rice varieties
than white rice varieties, partly due to arsenic accumulating in the outer bran layer.
- Helps to manage diabetes
Almost all types of rice are high on the glycemic index. The rice, however, falls at the lower
end of the scale. The glycemic index of basmati ranges from 50 to 58, which makes it a
medium to low glycemic index food. Further, people with diabetes cannot consume rice
since it causes an imbalance of insulin in their system. A relatively high amount of carbs,
proteins, and fibers are found in basmati rice nutrition, making it a lower glycaemic index than
any other type of rice. Consequently, they do not raise blood sugar levels and are diabetic-
friendly.
- Rich in fiber
Fiber is present in high concentrations in basmati. High-fiber diets are recommended by
doctors to promote healthy bowel movements. As this rice is high in soluble fiber, it
increases bulk and aids the digestive process. Further, increasing dietary fiber intake can also lower
your risk of Type 2 diabetes.
- Reduces heart disease risk
Brown basmati is a whole grain. The consumption of whole grains lowers blood cholesterol
levels. Moreover, they reduce high blood pressure, a cardiovascular risk factor. It is also extremely healthy for the heart because it contains low levels of saturated fatty acids.
Furthermore, high fiber levels promote cardiovascular health.
- Assists in weight loss
Getting your weight under control is possible thanks to the unique and natural composition of basmati. After you eat basmati, you will feel full for a longer period of time since it contains fiber that breaks down slowly in the body.
- Reduces cancer risk
The fibres in this rice are 20% higher than those present in many other kinds of cereal.
Moreover, these fibres can inhibit the growth of cancerous cells. A diet rich in fibre
encourages healthy bowel functions and smooth digestion of food. Furthermore, whole-grain
brown basmati prevents breast cancer thanks to its high fibre content, which aids in
hormonal balance.
SITCO’s Premium Basmati Rice Varieties
SITCO is committed to providing you with the best selection of premium food grains. Learn
more about the different types of basmati we offer to choose the best product.
1121 STEAM (Basmati Rice, Extra Long grain)
As one of the top rice exporters in India, we provide 1121 Steam Extra Long Grain
of the highest quality. Our Basmati Rice is grown at the highest altitudes. When cooked, it has a
delicious flavor, subtle aroma, and outstanding quality. The extra-long grain basmati swells to
three times its size after cooking. The aromatic and delicious 1121 Steam Extra Long Grain
is perfect for any meal you wish to prepare. In addition to being easy to cook,
more digestible, and convenient, it is also affordable.
1121 WHITE SELLA (Basmati Rice, Extra Long grain)
White Sella has a robust flavor, aroma, and nutty taste making it ideal for cooking
all kinds of dishes. However, if you are looking for rice to make kheer or biryani, this is an excellent
choice. You can create a unique dining experience with this white rice. In terms of its
length, it is the longest rice grain in the world. This premium quality white basmati is
manufactured and exported by SITCO at an affordable price. Our White Sella Rice is the perfect
blend of flavors, aromas, and textures.
1121 GOLDEN SELLA (Basmati Rice, Extra Long grain)
Golden Sella is delicious as a side dish or as the main ingredient in a recipe. Golden
Sella rice takes on a beautiful yellow color while offering a delicious taste. Sella rice is attractive
due to its pale yellow color giving it a golden hue. With a distinct flavor and superb finish, it is a
perfect choice for cooking. Further, it absorbs flavors as it cooks. With a delicate flavor and high
nutritional content, this type of rice is perfect for everyday cooking.
1509 STEAM Sella Basmati Rice
Steam Sella is white, nutritious, and incredibly delicious rice. The best way to keep
rice's properties untouched is to steam it. Steaming ensures that the flavor and fluffy texture of
the rice are preserved. Rice that we produce is hygienically manufactured and of the highest
quality. As well as having a good flavor, it has good nutritional value since it is steamed.
1509 WHITE SELLA Basmati Rice
This rice variety is produced in India and is rich in nutrients with a light flavor. White Sella Rice is
a great choice for diabetics concerned about carbohydrates. Further, this light and fresh rice are great for
a meal, as it is both filling and perfect for Indian and Chinese cuisines. Low-glycemic index
White Sella Rice is a good choice for diabetes patients and is rich in nutrition. This means it
doesn't spike blood sugar levels as high as other kinds of rice. We use well-defined production
and packaging methods to ensure that our rice variety is pure and free from pesticides and
preservatives.
1509 GOLDEN SELLA Basmati Rice
The 1509 GOLDEN SELLA rice is the best option for those who want both fragrant and delicious
rice. Unlike other grains, rice has a long shelf life and you can store it for a long time. The rice
we produce is in accordance with the highest cultivation standards. Moreover, we do not
compromise on quality or taste and deliver rice of the highest quality for all to enjoy.
PUSA STEAM Basmati Rice
With a distinctive flavor, the new Pusa steam rice has become a popular choice. Besides being
healthy and nutritious, this rice also has a pleasant aroma. There are many advantages to using
this rice besides its unmatched quality. There are long grains in it and it does not stick to the
pan after cooking. Further, the steaming process retains nutrition and ensures good health.
PUSA WHITE SELLA Basmati Rice
Our Pusa White Sella rice has a distinctive flavor, and is nutritionally superior. A high level of
nutrition ensures that it is beneficial to human health. It has a long shelf life, a great taste, and
flavor, and is easy to prepare. Moreover, it is fat-free, easy to digest, and healthy.
PUSA GOLDEN SELLA Basmati Rice
Pusa Golden Sella Rice is a Hybrid Basmati variety that is a great combination of taste and value.
It has long grains and an enticing aroma. Whole grain products that contain high fiber content
are beneficial for weight loss and provide good energy. This satisfies the desire for carbohydrates and controls calories.
PUSA RAW Basmati Rice
Pusa Raw is one of our most popular products. We provide the finest range of
Pusa Raw Basmati at the best prices. The rice we offer is rich in fragrance, nutrition, and
taste.
SUGANDHA STEAM Basmati Rice
SITCO exports Sugandha Steam rice, a popular variety of rice in the world. There is a robust
demand for it all over the world. We cultivate Sugandha Steamed Rice carefully to maintain its
nutritional goodness and nice aroma. Our products use only premium ingredients
and processes, and we never compromise on quality.
SUGANDHA WHITE SELLA Basmati Rice
Sugandha Basmati has a distinct flavor and soft texture. The length of this rice makes it ideal for
long-grain rice dishes. You can eat the delicately flavored white rice every day and goes well
with all your favorite dishes.
Conclusion
Basmati Rice is perfect for all occasions. There are a number of reasons why you include
basmati in your diet. You will experience a variety of health benefits when you consume this
super grain. It consists primarily of carbohydrates and proteins, with a lower fat content
than other types of grains. Our Basmati rice export division offers products of the highest
quality that does not contain any artificial chemicals or pesticides to supply the best basmati
rice in India. Browse our catalog for the latest basmati rice price and order your basmati rice
online.
So go ahead and start using basmati for healthy living.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Which is better white rice or basmati rice?
In comparison with white rice, basmati has a higher caloric and carb content. Likewise,
there is a slight increase in protein content. It has higher fiber content and is often
preferred by individuals with Type 2 diabetes.
- What is so special about basmati rice?
Basmati is a type of rice that grows primarily on the Indian subcontinent. Traditionally, it's used for Indian
dishes such as biryani and pulao because it has a nutty and floral flavor. Its uniqueness lies in its
ability to expand more than twice its dry length when cooked. It also has many health benefits
when compared to white rice.
- Should I wash basmati rice?
Yes, this will aid in removing the starch.
- Should basmati be soaked before cooking?
Even though it is not essential to soak the rice, we recommend you to soak it for 30 minutes
to relax the grains.
- Is basmati anti inflammatory?
It is rich in fiber and hence aids digestion while reducing inflammation.
- Is basmati the healthiest rice?
In addition to its high fiber content, basmati rice has a lower glycemic index than other varieties
of rice. Including fiber in your diet will help with digestion and will reduce constipation. The low
glycemic index makes it ideal to fight insulin resistance.
