The Rice Is Right: 12 Types of Rice for All Kinds of Dishes
Around the World in Rice: These Rice Varieties Enliven Everyday Meals
There’s much more to rice than the white stuff that comes in a box. There are an array of grains and varieties that can add interesting flavor and texture to your dishes. Get to know the different types of rice with this handy guide.
White
American long-grain white rice is the kind usually found in the supermarket. After absorbing enough water, this rice forms a fluffy texture when handled with a fork.
Brown
Brown rice is a whole grain, therefore much healthier. The bran and germ layers which remain with the kernel not only nourish but add a nutty flavor that’s absent in white rice.
Long-Grain Rice
Long-grain rice is usually four to five times longer than its width. These grains tend to separate more distinctly than other types of rice.
Medium-Grain Rice
Medium-grain rice has a wide kernel and sticks together in clumps, unlike long-grain rice.
Short-Grain Rice
Short-grain rice is almost round in shape and sticks together even more so than medium-grain.
Basmati
Used in many Indian dishes basmati rice is fragrant with a nutty flavor.
Japanese-Style Rice
White and short-grained, Japanese-style rice is used in many of the country’s dishes and is the main ingredient in sushi.
Wehani
Wehani rice is the color of honey and it has a nutty flavor similar to other aromatic varieties.
Sweet Brown
Sweet brown rice is brown on the outside and white on the inside. When it cooks, the rice loses its shape and sticks together.
Jasmine
Jasmine rice hails from Thailand and has a unique floral scent when cooked.
Chinese Black
Chinese black rice has a dark colored bran with white insides. This special rice turns a shade of dark purple after you cook it.