Basmati Rice Benefits

If you think rice is just rice, here are just a few of the reasons why Basmati is best and why to choose Basmati over ordinary rice.

What is a basmati rice?

Basmati rice is an aromatic variety of rice that originated in the Indian subcontinent. Known for its distinct nutty flavour, delicate floral aroma and fluffy texture, it’s a staple in many Indian, Pakistani and Middle Eastern cuisines. Due to its versatility, basmati rice is the perfect base for soaking up rich, flavourful sauces like curry and is the traditional base for Indian biryani.

Is basmati long-grain rice?

Yes! Basmati rice is one of many varieties of long-grain rice. Due to the large number of regional variations, hybrid variations and processing methods, it’s hard to pinpoint the exact number of long-grain rice variations but other than basmati, other primary types are Jasmine, regular and brown.

Difference between basmati and long-grain rice

While both basmati and regular long-grain rice share some similarities, there are distinct differences that set them apart:

• Grain length & texture: Basmati rice is known for being exceptionally long and slender grains that cook to be separate and fluffy. Alternatively, regular long-grain rice is generally thicker and tends to be slightly stickier when cooked.
• Aroma and flavour: Basmati rice is renowned for its distinctive nutty flavour and delicate floral aroma. In comparison, regular long-grain rice has a generally milder flavour and aroma.
• Cooking characteristics: Basmati rice is known for its ability to expand significantly during cooking, resulting in light and airy rice. On the other hand, regular long-grain rice tends to cook to a firmer texture compared to basmati.

In essence, basmati rice is a superior quality long-grain rice that offers a unique combination of aroma, flavour and texture, making it a preferred choice for many culinary applications.

Is basmati rice healthy?

Yes, basmati rice can be considered a healthy option when compared to other foods and grains. It is a good source of carbohydrates, protein, and other nutrients, and it is low in fat and calories. For these reasons, basmati rice is a healthy choice for people of all ages.

But, like other grains, it’s essential that you consume basmati rice in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Also, consider how you cook it; steaming or boiling is generally a healthier option than deep-frying. Finally, when choosing basmati rice, remember that wholegrain brown basmati rice is considered healthier than white basmati rice due to its higher fibre content and nutrient profile.

Top 10 Basmati rice benefits

Basmati rice offers a delightful combination of taste and potential health benefits. Here are 10 reasons to consider adding it to your diet:

Basmati Is Gluten-Free

Basmati rice is naturally gluten-free, making it an excellent choice for people with celiac disease, gluten sensitivity or those following a gluten-free diet. It provides a safe and nutritious alternative to gluten-containing grains. It offers a versatile base for various dishes and is a valuable component of a balanced gluten-free meal plan.

Basmati Is A “Super Grain”

Basmati is low in fat, very low in sodium, has little to no cholesterol, and contains all eight essential amino acids and folic acid.

Basmati also has a low glycaemic index compared to other rice types, meaning that energy is released at a slower, steadier rate leading to a more balanced level of energy and that it helps to regulate blood sugar levels; a crucial part of diabetes management.

Is rice good for you? Learn more in our dedicated guide.

Basmati Is a Taste Sensation

Tilda Basmati tastes like no other rice on earth. Unlike ordinary long-grain rice, the light, fluffy texture of Basmati’s long, slender grains offers the palate a totally different experience in terms of mouth-feel and taste – distinctive, unique and slightly ‘nutty’.

Basmati Has a Wonderful Aroma

Literally translated as ‘the fragrant one’, Basmati has been described as having the aroma of sun-baked wood and flowers. If you want to sell your house, just cook Tilda Basmati rice instead of baking bread!

Tilda Basmati Is the Crown Jewel Of Rice

Tilda Pure Basmati is steeped in centuries of legendary tradition and heritage. Basmati improves with age and relies entirely on nature for its very special characteristics. We store our Basmati for months in order for it to mature, before carefully milling, resulting in a deeper and richer flavour.

Basmati Requires Constant Love and Affection

There is only one Basmati harvest a year and the plant requires specific weather conditions to mature and flourish. It is much taller than other rice, and so is prone to wind damage. Its delicate make-up explains the constant need for vigilance and care by the farmer, yet allows the plant to develop its complex and unique flavour and characteristics. This constant love and affection is reflected in its premium price compared to ordinary long-grain rice.

Tilda Basmati Is a Dream To Cook

Cooking with Tilda Basmati means light, delicate and separate grains.

That’s because we carefully mill our grains, rejecting broken grains that would otherwise release starch and cause the rice to become sticky. Uniquely, the Basmati grain expands more than twice its dry length during cooking. Unlike other types of rice, the grains only expand lengthways resulting in the grains retaining their long slender characteristic when cooked.

Basmati Is Extremely Versatility

The open texture of Tilda Basmati allows the grain to absorb other flavours, making it a sociable partner to a whole host of recipes such as Jackfruit Buddha bowl, Herby Stuffed Tomatoes and even sweet Basmati Cake!

Tilda Is Accountable

We consider ourselves ‘Guardians’ of Basmati and from the very beginning have worked tirelessly to ensure that the legend of Pure Basmati continues to flourish. We adopt a ‘fair play’ policy, working with the farming communities of the Basmati growing region. It is a unique relationship. We support traditional farming with free growing advice via FACE our Farmers Advisory Cell and we provide Basmati seed to farmers at no profit.

Basmati—The Legend Lives On

For over 50 years, we have been committed to preserving this legendary rice. Today the farmers still grow Basmati using the methods of nurturing this precious grain that have been passed down from generation to generation. Our experienced buyers have only one brief – to buy the best Basmati, regardless of price. It’s as valuable to those who grow it, as it is for those who cook with it.