Rice is a staple in India, and much like the diversity of Indian culture, there are several rice varieties, each with unique flavors, textures, aromas, and nutritional profiles shaped by regional climates, soils, and traditions. From aromatic long grains perfect for biryanis to short, sticky types ideal for desserts, these rices are staples in daily meals, festivals, and healing diets. Here are 10 types of rice varieties from different parts of the country.Basmati riceBasmati rice, grown primarily in the northern plains of Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh, is renowned for its long, slender grains that elongate upon cooking without becoming sticky. Its nutty aroma and delicate flavor make it ideal for biryanis, pulaos, and jeera rice. Rich in fiber and low glycemic index, it supports digestion and blood sugar control.
Sona MasooriSona Masoori, a popular South Indian variety from Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, features medium-length grains that stay fluffy and separate when cooked. It’s lighter than Basmati, perfect for everyday meals like sambar rice or curd rice. This polished white rice provides quick energy with moderate protein and is easy to digest.Ponni ricePonni rice, originating from Tamil Nadu, is a short-grain variety known for its soft, moist texture after cooking. Parboiled versions retain more nutrients like B vitamins and minerals. It’s favored for idlis, dosas, and pongal, offering sustained energy and better mineral absorption compared to raw rice.Red RiceRed rice, such as Kerala Matta or Himalayan red rice, gets its hue from the intact bran layer rich in anthocyanins and iron. Grown in Kerala and Northeast India, it has a chewy texture and nutty taste, ideal for kanji or pulaos. High in fiber (3-4g per 100g cooked), it aids heart health and diabetes management.Black riceBlack rice, also called Chakhao from Manipur or Burma Black, is an heirloom variety with deep purple-black grains due to antioxidants. Nutritious with high iron, zinc, and anthocyanins similar to blueberries, it’s used in desserts or fermented drinks. Its chewy texture and mild sweetness support anti-aging and immunity.Ambemohar riceAmbemohar rice from Maharashtra’s Sahyadri hills is prized for its mango-like fragrance and soft, non-sticky grains. Aromatic and semi-long, it’s perfect for khichdi or poha-like dishes. Rich in antioxidants, it promotes digestion and is considered medicinal for respiratory health.JeerakasalaJeerakasala, a Kerala GI-tagged short-grain rice, resembles cumin seeds in aroma and is key in sadhya feasts. Tiny grains yield fluffy rice for fish curries. High in protein and fiber, it enhances gut health and is low-calorie for weight control.Kolam riceKolam rice from Maharashtra and Gujarat is a short-grain, polished variety that cooks quickly into soft, fragrant rice. Affordable and versatile for daily dal-chawal or khichdi, it offers balanced carbs with good digestibility.Samba riceSamba rice, a Tamil Nadu specialty like White Samba or Seeraga Samba, has bold grains that absorb flavors well for biryanis. Parboiled types retain thiamine and niacin. It provides sustained energy and is favored for its volume expansion.Navara riceNavara rice from Kerala is a medicinal red variety used in Ayurveda for Panchakarma therapies. Short-grained and nutrient-dense with high antioxidants and proteins, it’s cooked into porridge for recovery from illnesses, boosting vitality and immunity.
