Rice is a staple in many countries and a common addition to many dishes and cuisines. Rice is cultivated in every continent except Antarctica due to its adaptability and high yield, and has about 40,000 variations across the globe. Here is a compilation of the famous and healthiest rice types around the world.
Jasmine rice: is claimed to be one of the best in the world by many rice experts. Named such due to its subtle floral aroma. When cooked it has a slightly sweet flavour, and is very sought after. It is low in calories and contains calcium, iron and potassium.
Basmati: traditionally grown in the Indian subcontinent, it is a long and slender variety of rice and is propulary used in biryani. It is lower in calories compared to whte rice, gluten-free and low in sodium.
Black rice: famously known as forbidden rice, since it was only eaten by royalty in ancient China. It gets its colour from a pigment – anthocyanin – which has very strong antioxidant properties. It is high in carbs, calories and gluten free, and is claimed to decrease heart-diseases and is an anti-cancer agent.
Brown rice: this is a type of whole grain rice that has a bran layer. It is very healthy and has loads of antioxidants, is high in fiber and protein and is very popular among the health enthusiasts as it is very filling. It also regulates insulin and blood sugar, making it a better option for those who have diabetes.
White Rice: is the same as brown rice without the outer bran layer which is polished out in processing. However it lacks in antioxidants and vitamins that the bran layer contributes. It is one of the most popular types of rice. It is considered as ‘empty carbs’ as it offers no real nutritional value and is just carbs.
Arborio Rice: it’s an italian short-grain type of rice, named after a small town in the Po Valley. It has a starchy taste and blends well with other flavours. It is often used to make risotto and rice pudding. It is a good source of crabs, fiber and protein.
And as always, we keep the best for the last.
Kinmemai Premium: this is by far the most expensive rice type in the world and only found in one place, Japan. One kilogram costing a whooping US$109, and is considered to be the caviar of the rice industry. The rice grains undergo a very complex development process and are aged for half a year to further develop the texture and flavor. It has a high level of lipopolysaccharide, which improves the immune system and stabilizes and strengthens the cell structure