List of 10 Types of Rice in India for Different Recipes

Table of Contents

1. Basmati Rice

In India, there are about 6000 varieties that are extensively used currently, of which about 80 odd varieties bring out the best out of the dishes made throughout the country. Being the largest consuming grain in India, it also accounts to being exported by India majorly, with around 53 million tons exported in 2023.

While rice is among the most diverse staple foods used throughout the world, it is crucial for you to identify the most versatile, yet tasty variety among the types of Indian rice, best fit for preparing local delicacies and festive specialties with equal fervor. In this blog, let us learn how to choose the best variety of rice for your recipes, through the list of some of the preferred varieties and brands throughout India.

List of Well-Known Rice Varieties Used in India

Morethan 85% of this variety rice is exported by India throughout the world and is one of the most popular rices used globally. Whether it is for a treat of a pot full of smoked Biryani or a delicacy like a kheer, Basmati is one of the best choices among rice varieties in India.

This is Wada Kolam rice, which falls under the aromatic non-basmati types of Indian rice. Known for its unique texture, light color, and pleasant natural aroma, it features medium-slender grains. Wada Kolam is widely used in dishes like Pongal, Chitranna, Puliyogare, Khichdi, Pulao, and Biryani. Its subtle fragrance and soft texture after cooking make it a preferred choice in many households. It is also noted for being easy to digest, with relatively higher fiber and a lower glycemic index compared to polished white rice.

This is a naturally scented premium rice that has got the reputation of sometimes being an alternative to Basmati rice for its texture and flavor. It is extensively used in cooking Thai cuisine and other exotic dishes.

This is a fluffy yet elongated rice, which is the most economical choice among different types of rice in India. It is mainly used in making Pulao, Biryani and plain rice, ideal for everyday cooking at home.

For those who are health conscious, and is widely famous among people with heart problems, brown rice is one of the ideal staple food options for daily consumption, as it is rich in nutrients and has high dietary fiber content.

This is a classic Kolam rice with thin, long grains gives a refreshing flavor and a spongy texture, rich are micro-nutrients is non-sticky and ideal for rice dishes. It is ideal for daily cooking and has a lower glycemic index, making it ideal for those with diabetes.

This is a popular type of rice in India which is medium sized that can be used in special dishes like coconut rice, idli, dosa, Pongal etc. It is lightweight and deemed as a comfort meal among the other types of Indian rice.

This is a type of rice which is medium sized stout grains that are sticky in nature with a high fiber content. It appears as the median between white and brown rice and needs more water to cook into a nice, sticky consistency. It is widely used in Asian and African continents. The idlis and dosas come fluffy and crisp respectively, enhancing the taste and retaining the authenticity of the dishes.

The origin of this type of rice in India is from the Southern part is known best for its nutty flavor and dietary fiber content. The presence of anthocyanins in the rice gives it a bright red tinge on the grains and is mainly used in the coastal side of Karnataka and in Kerala.

This is one of the famously known among the rice varieties in India and originates from the lands of Maharashtra. It requires proper cooking and if not, it becomes sticky, however it has a quicker cooking time than the other varieties. It spreads a sweet aroma while being cooked and is easy to digest.

Conclusion

Nowadays, many are resorting to healthy options, and with rice having the necessary micronutrients, it is important to follow a balanced diet to benefit the most from the food you consume. Combining lots of fruits and vegetables at an optimum proportion with rice can be healthy, nutritious and tasty at the same time.

Kesar Kali is the largest producer of organically grown types of rice in India, with different varieties like Wada Kolam, premium scented rice, brown rice, Basmati rice and many more that are sourced directly from the tribal farmlands of Maharashtra. Opt for our rice products for maximum benefits, available in different quantities and premium packaging to suit your convenience.