Rice is one of the most popular foods in the world. It is a staple food for more than 3.5 billion people in the world. Rice and other food products made from rice are important sources of carbohydrates and vitamins. There are 120,000 varieties of rice available around the world. However, this article will cover the 15 most common rice grain varieties that are popular in different parts of the world.

15 Most Popular Types of Rice Grains in the World

Let’s explore some of the top rice varieties in the world based on their flavor profiles, origin, available region, and nutritional benefits. So, let’s get started and take a look at some of the best rice varieties in the world!

Arborio Rice

Arborio Rice is a short-grain Italian rice originating from the northern region of Italy. It is known for its creamy texture and its ability to absorb large amounts of liquid. The flavor of Arborio is slightly sweet and nutty and has a chewy, creamy texture when cooked.

Read: Health Benefits of Different Types of Nuts

Its available region is mainly Europe, North America, and Asia. Nutritional benefits of Arborio Rice include being low in fat and high in fiber and protein. Furthermore, it is 100% gluten-free and has low cholesterol.

Basmati

Basmati Rice is a type of long-grain rice native to the Indian subcontinent. It has a nutty flavor and fragrant aroma, making it a popular choice for many dishes. Basmati Rice is commonly found in Indian, Middle Eastern, and South Asian cuisine.

Read More: Honey Benefits: What Happens to Your Body When You Consume Honey

It is available in both white and brown varieties. The nutritional benefits of Basmati include high levels of B vitamins, including B1 (thiamine). Basmati Rice is low in calories and fat and is a good substitute for white rice in many diets. It is a great addition to any meal, providing flavor and nutrition.

Black Rice

It is an ancient grain originating in Asia. It has a mild, nutty, and earthy flavor. This kind of rice is usually used in desserts. It is available in most Asian grocery stores, as well as some health food stores. It is high in antioxidants, contains more fiber than white rice, and is a good source of iron and vitamin E.

Read more: Top 10 Most Expensive Foods in the World

Black Rice also has a lower glycemic index than other varieties, making it a good choice for diabetics. It can be used in a variety of recipes, from savory dishes to sweet desserts. Its deep purple color and unique texture make it a great addition to any meal.

Bomba Rice

Bomba rice is an aromatic short-grain rice that is especially popular in Spain and Italy. It is highly valued for its ability to absorb a great deal of liquid while still maintaining its shape, making it ideal for use in paella and other rice dishes.

Read More: Top brain foods for studying and exams

The rice can absorb stock and spices while staying separated and never becoming creamy. It is grown mainly in the Valencia region of Spain but is also available in other parts of the world. It is a good source of dietary fiber and a good source of plant-based protein.

Brown Rice

Brown Rice is an unrefined long grain that is a great source of nutrition and has been consumed for centuries. Originating in India and China, it is now available in many regions and is loved for its nutty flavor and chewy texture. Brown Rice is high in fiber, manganese, and selenium and is a great source of B vitamins and protein.

Read More: Health Benefits of Nigella Seeds (Kalijira)

It is also naturally low in fat and calories and can help regulate blood sugar levels. It can be a great addition to any diet and is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. It is a healthy, delicious, and nutritious choice that can help improve overall health.

Jasmine Rice

Jasmine rice is a fragrant long-grain rice originating from Thailand. It has a soft, sticky texture and a slightly sweet floral and nutty flavor when cooked. It is widely available throughout Southeast Asia, as well as parts of India, the Caribbean, and North America.

Read More: Green Coffee: Health Benefits, Side Effects, Recipes

It contains a good balance of dietary fiber, protein, and essential folic acids. Jasmine rice is nutritious and easy to digest, making it a great choice for those seeking a healthy variety of rice.

Carnaroli

Carnaroli Rice is an Italian variety of short-grain rice, mainly grown in the Piedmont and Lombardy regions of Italy. It is small, round, and firm, with a high starch content, making it ideal for risotto. Its flavor is slightly sweet and nutty, and it gives a creamy texture to the dish.

Read More: Dietitians Warning: Who Should Avoid Red Meat?

Carnaroli Rice is available in most supermarkets, and it is also exported to many other countries. Nutritionally, it is low in fat and high in calories and protein.

Carolino

Carolino rice, a medium-grain variety grown in Portugal, is renowned for its firm yet tender texture when cooked. This type of rice is known for its ability to absorb colors and flavors, making it ideal for tomato-based and seafood dishes that are typical of Portuguese cuisine.

Read More: Natural Collagen-Rich Foods for Healthy Joints, Skin, Hair

Parboiled

Parboiled rice is beloved in certain countries due to its unique properties. It is cooked while still brown, enabling some vitamins, such as thiamine, to penetrate the grain. This process also causes gelatinization of the starch, which makes the rice less brittle and gives it a more yellowish hue.

The parboiled rice can either be dried and milled or used as is or even as brown rice. The best part of parboiling is that the grains will not stick to the pot when cooked.

Kalijira

Kalijira Rice is a rare, aromatic, and small-grained variety of rice that is grown mainly in Bangladesh. It has a unique flavor and aroma with a hint of sweetness. It is also known as Baby Basmati and is very popular in Bangladesh and India.

It is an excellent source of complex carbohydrates but contains fat and cholesterol. Kalijira Rice is a great choice for a variety of dishes, including curries, pilafs, and salads.

Read More: Cold Remedies: Best, worst drinks to boost immune, fight sickness

Red Cargo

It is a type of long-grain rice native to Thailand. It has a strong nutty flavor with a hint of sweetness. The grains do not get sticky when cooked and hold their shape well. Red Cargo Rice is most commonly found in Asian markets.

It is high in fiber and protein, as well as iron. Red cargo rice is especially important due to its high antioxidant content. These substances help the body combat the effects of free radicals, which are unstable atoms that have been connected to aging and numerous health issues.

Rosematta or Matta Rice

Rosematta is a specialty variety of rice from the Indian state of Kerala. It has a distinctly earthy and nutty flavor and a reddish-brown color. It is a rich source of carbohydrates and has a low glycemic index. Rosematta Rice is high in minerals, iron, and vitamins. It is also rich in dietary fiber and antioxidants, making it a nutritious staple of any diet.

Read More: Superfood Moringa Powder: Know Its Health Benefits, Side Effects.

Glutinous or Sticky Rice

Sticky Rice is a type of rice that has a sticky texture when cooked. This type of rice is also called Glutinous rice, Sweet Rice, or Waxy rice. It originates from East and Southeast Asia and is commonly used in their cuisine.

Read More: Soybean Oil Substitutes: Some Healthier Options for Cooking, Baking

The flavor of sticky rice is somewhat sweet and nutty and pairs well with savory dishes. It is readily available in many Asian countries, as well as specialty stores in the West. Sticky rice is high in carbohydrates and starch, helping to provide energy and fuel to the body.

Vialone Nano

Vialone Nano Rice is an Italian variety of medium-grain rice originating from the Veneto and Mantua regions of Italy. It has a sweet, nutty flavor and is the perfect addition to risotto and other Italian dishes.

Read More: 7 Yummy Coffee Recipes to Try at Home without Coffee Maker

It is available in specialty stores throughout Europe, North America, and Australia. Nutritionally, it is a good source of carbohydrates, fiber, iron, magnesium, and potassium and is low in fat. It is a great source of calories and protein and has low fat.

Sushi Rice

Short-grain white or brown rice is typically used to make sushi, as it has a soft, tender, and very sticky texture. To achieve this characteristic, the rice is typically combined with sugar, salt, and vinegar. Many packages of short-grain white or brown rice are labeled as “sushi rice” to indicate that it is suitable for rolling sushi.

Read More: Cooking Without Oil: How and Why?

Final Words

In conclusion, the different kinds of rice grains that are grown around the world offer a wide variety of tastes and textures. From the aromatic Basmati to the nutty-flavored jasmine, there are many flavors to choose from.

Additionally, each variety has its own unique nutritional benefits and health advantages. Whether you are looking for a gluten-free alternative or a high-fiber source of carbohydrates, there is a type of rice that can meet your dietary needs. No matter what your individual preferences are, there is sure to be a rice variety that is perfect for you.