© 2020 America's Test Kitchen. Jasmine vs Basmati Rice Conclusion So, you are now aware of the differences between jasmine rice and basmati rice. … Chow Mein vs Chop Suey: Differences You Should Know. Learn real cooking skills from your favorite food experts, The iconic magazine that investigates how and why recipes work, American classics, everyday favorites, and the stories behind them, Experts teach 200+ online courses for home cooks at every skill level, Kid tested, kid approved: Welcome to America’s Test Kitchen for the next generation. Tastessence pits jasmine vs. basmati rice and looks at the differences between the two. So, the final verdict is up to you, but if the question is about health, go with brown rice. We love both of these fragrant rices, but they're a bit pricier than standard long-grain white rice. Get FREE ACCESS to every recipe and rating from this season of our TV show. Rice, in general, is classified by size into three groups long grain, medium grain and short grain. The rice will absorb the water evenly, and should then be boiled in plain or salted water. They are used for different application. For starters, they come from different geographic locations. However, because it’s so much pricier than other varieties — and because it can be hard to tell the difference between it and, say, jasmine — crossbred or otherwise inauthentic rice is sold fraudulently as basmati with shocking frequency. Keep in mind these are average values and can range higher or lower depending on the brand. To decide which rice is better for you, a good measure is to use the glycemic index. Calrose rice s a short grain rice while Jasmine rice is a long grain rice. Type of Grain: Both basmati and jasmine rice are types of long grain rice. White rice comes in short-grain (for example, Aborio), medium-grain (Japanese-style) and long-grain (Basmati, Jasmine and Doongara), and for each of these varieties, the glycemic index differs. This rice is often easier to use, which is why it is found in stews, accompanying meat, and grain bowls. When cooked, basmati rice elongates to twice its original size. Short grains produce a stickier cooked result so they are great for use as sushi rice. It's all about the two different molecules that make up starch. Basmati rice is a type of white rice commonly from the Himalayas, India, and Pakistan. While the traditional form of basmati is grown in India and Pakistan, there are a few U.S.-grown hybrids that go by names such as Texmati and Calmati. Jasmine rice is a long-grain type of rice that grows primarily in Southeast Asia, especially in Thailand. As with basmati rice, jasmine rice is not only high in calories and carbohydrates, but also in other micronutrients. If that’s the case with basmati and jasmine rice, then this article can help you clear some doubts and choose the right rice for your next meal. On the contrary, basmati rice requires some soaking before cooking, and tends to be long, dry, and fluffy. Not all rice has a high glycemic index, basmati rice for example, has a relatively low glycemic index of 59. Picking the right type of rice can seem like a difficult decision, particularly if you are not sure of the different types of rice out there, what they mean and how they are supposed to be cooked. Kalijira rice (baby basmati): These miniature rice grains are similar in flavor to basmati rice and hail from Bangladesh. Currently, about 70% of the world’s basmati rice production comes from India.Its distinctive flavor is given by 2-acetyl-1-pyrroline, an aroma compound that’s also used in Indian spices, jasmine rice, and white bread. However, Jasmine rice grains have rounded tips and are usually more translucent. Brown Basmati rice still has the husk and cereal grain attached and is a whole grain. Just like brown basmati rice, the brown type of jasmine rice is higher in fiber because it contains the whole grain. Basmati rice is typically cooked with light spices and oils then served as a side to main dishes. That's what gives jasmine its clingy texture and makes it ideal for gently piling into a rice bowl and unmolding to make an impressive mound. As basmati rice is already flavorful, and can often be more expensive than white rice. Mix up for extra taste: In fact, when I make a basmati rice pilaf, I like to start with a cup or so of basmati and then add a teaspoon or two of Jasmine rice after the rice is cooked. It can be enjoyed as brown rice or further processed to expose the white rice grain. This is due to the presence of a molecule called 2-acetyl-1-pyrroline ( 17 , 19 ). Basmati will be absorbed more slowly, creating a better effect of fullness, and raising blood sugar slowly, while jasmine will be absorbed quickly, spiking your blood sugar. This type, though, is higher in carbohydrates but lower in fiber. Jasmine rice's starch, by contrast, has less amylose and more of another molecule: amylopectin, which has bushy branches that prevent it from organizing itself tidily. Jasmine rice has glycemic index of 68-80. One cup of basmati rice is not only high in carbohydrates and calories but also has lots of micronutrients. One more obvious difference is the glycemic index of each type of rice. Both Jasmine and Basmati rice come in two colors: white and brown. Medium grains, such as arborio, are great for paella and risotto. Another key difference is the grain length. Based on this, basmati rice is a healthier option, as it has a glycemic index of 58. If a food has a high glycemic index, it is absorbed much quicker, thus, raising blood sugar much higher. Basmati is available in both white and brown varieties. This type of rice is long grain and has a nutty flavor with a floral aroma. Jasmine rice is originally from Thailand and is commonly used in Southeast Asian cooking. Specifically, 100g of basmati rice will give you (*): These nutrition facts are all based on white basmati rice, but it is possible to find whole-grain kinds, with added fiber, vitamin E, and potassium. Package: : 20 Pound. Basmati rice, like jasmine rice is a very aromatic and delicate variety of rice. The basmati grains remained distinct and maintained their long, slim shape. The flavor is also more subtle than basmati, though some consider it similar. Southern long grain and medium grain rice grown in Southern United States, including Arkansas, Mississippi, Missouri, Louisiana, and Texas, is indica rice and accounts for over 75% US rice production. For example, basmati rice is significantly higher in calories and carbs than white rice. This rice is common in rice pilaf, curry, and even Mediterranean dishes, like paella. The three main types of rice. … This very simple rice recipes will make everyone able to cook it perfectly in a pot. There are many differences between basmati and jasmine rice, despite the similar appearance and aroma. The grains are also shorter and thicker than basmati rice. Meanwhile, Basmati rice has longer, thinner grains with sharper ends. The difference between Basmati rice and Jasmine rice can be observed on different factors such as the length of the grain, nature after cooking, aroma, etc. Long-Grain Rice. The two have a high carbohydrate count, but basmati rice has more complex fibers and sugar, giving it the lower glycemic index (*). What Are The Best Substitutes for Arborio Rice? Jasmine rice is also known as Thai fragrant rice, given its pleasant popcorn-like smell. However, being softer can be a good thing in certain cases, as it can not only make the dish flavorful but also have a smoother texture. In contrast, jasmine rice has a glycemic index of 69-80, depending on how it was cooked. It also increases in size and length. All of these varieties are available in white and brown. White variants of rice are polished and are free from bran. Top 8 Rice Substitutes For All The Recipes You Want…, Top 6 Rice Vinegar Substitutes That Are Great In Any…, Top 6 Rice Wine Substitutes That Taste Delicious In…, Top 7 Dry Sherry Substitutes That Are Perfect For Cooking, 5 Baking Powder Substitutes for Your Cooking, Very long rice, twice as long after cooking, Long, but considerably shorter than basmati, Soak before steaming; great for rice pilaf, curry, paella, and coconut rice, Rinse and clean before steaming; great for soups, stir-fries, roasts, and stews, 1 ½ cup white basmati = 20 minutes2 cups brown basmati = 50 minutes, 1 ½ cup white jasmine = 20 minutes 2 cups brown jasmine = 45 minutes. Jasmine rice is relatively smaller and tends to be moist and sticky. This means it’s ideal for those trying to put on pounds, but not so good for cutting.. However, the smell that accompanies this rice during cooking is slightly different. Basmati rice is native to India and Pakistan while jasmine rice is native to Thailand. This is a long grain variety of rice that has a subtle floral aroma and a soft, sticky texture when cooked. Jasmine rice is a long-grain brown rice grown in Asia, primarily in Thailand, Cambodia, Laos and Southern Vietnam. However, cooking white jasmine rice is easy and results in a very aromatic, soft texture. For: dry, distinct grains; examples: basmati, jasmine. in Nutrition, Dietetics, and Sensory Sciences. Jasmine rice is sticky while Basmati rice is fluffy. Its strong, distinctive taste is known to enhance flavor, and can also complement the overall aroma of your dish. Jasmine rice, from Thailand, has long, translucent grains. Why the difference? Jasmine & Basmati Rice Nutrition | Livestrong.com While they may look similar, there are a number of differences between these two types of rice. When cooked, basmati rice elongates to twice its original size. In terms of nutrients, both kinds of rice have similar amounts of fiber, protein, fat, and vitamins and minerals. It is available in both white and brown forms. Both jasmine rice and basmati rice are long grain, aromatic rice varieties. In the case of cooking jasmine rice, it must be washed and rinsed first. The brown basmati rice, on the other hand, is considered to be healthier because it is high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. In terms of health, brown jasmine rice is better for you, but in terms of cooking, the white kind is tastier and results in a more appetizing flavor and texture. 9.8. Basmati has a lot of amylose: a straight molecule that organizes into a tight formation, which helps each grain stay distinct when cooked, making basmati a great choice for pilaf. This is done to remove the excess starch and dust, then the rice is ready to be steamed, or cooked in a rice cooker. Another long-grain, fragrant rice, basmati rice hails from India and Pakistan. 3. Home / Food Facts & Kitchen Tips / Jasmine Rice Vs. When you cook basmati you can feel in the kitchen a delicate scent of sandalwood, the taste of this rice variety is a bit earthy. Jasmine has a stronger taste and can be a bit overpowering. It has a very long grain that lengthens further when cooked. Although very minute variations may exist in the calorie, carb, … It doesn't need to be soaked prior to cooking. Rice cookers can be used for all types of rice, including white, brown, long-grain, short-grain, jasmine, basmati, and wild rice. She loves traveling, trying new foods, and cooking. It is not as high in fiber and micronutrients as its brown counterpart. As for basmati rice, it is usually soaked in water for about an hour or two before cooking. As you rinse rice, you'll be able to see the starch releasing into the water. All rights reserved. Characteristic of basmati rice is its long, thin grains and pandan aroma whereas jasmine rice has short, thick grains and a jasmine-like aroma. When cooked, basmati rice turns dry and fluffy compared to the moist and sticky texture of jasmine rice. Before cooking it’s important to wash the rice to remove any dust and excess starch. In the case of cooking jasmine rice, it must be washed and rinsed first. And when it comes to storing it, the shelf life of the white ver… 2. Dimensions: : 18.5 x 8 x 2 inches. When comparing the nutrition in jasmine rice and basmati rice, you will notice they have a similar number of calories. If we are looking at flavor, basmati is a better choice because it has a stronger aroma and a more intense nutty taste. Because of its tiny grains, this rice cooks relatively quickly. The jasmine rice had a plush, moist texture; its grains collected in delicate clumps, perfect for … The cooking technique is also different for each type of rice. We'll save basmati for a refined pilaf and serve jasmine alongside our favorite Thai curries. Jasmine rice: This long-grain rice has a soft texture and is similar in flavor to basmati rice. Jasmine rice has a floral aroma while Basmati rice has a nutty aroma. Given the choice, go with basmati, unless you want a fluffier and starchier meal, which sometimes is ideal when you want a side dish that mixes well with sauces and meats. *Photo by AndreySt and DONOT6 /depositphotos. And when you rinse long-grain rice, like basmati or jasmine, you’ll actually come away with individual, discrete grains. However, the fluffy long-grained texture of basmati rice is the classic companion of a South Asian curry. Basmati vs Jasmine Rice for Curry. Here are the main differences. Basmati rice is comparable to other types of brown or white rice in terms of nutrients. When we talk about aromatic varieties of rice around the world, Basmati rice comes first to mind. The cooking technique is also different for each type of rice. When she isn’t busy working, you can find her running with her dog Milo or reading a book in the sun. If you want a tasty and decadent dish, go with white basmati rice. While they are both long-grain, jasmine rice is shorter and round, while basmati rice is considered to be one of the longest kinds. This is also aromatic, but it gets its name from the color it has which resembles the jasmine flower. Both basmati and jasmine rice are especially aromatic, sharing the 2-Acetyl-1-pyrroline compound that gives them both a pandan-like or popcorn-esque aroma, but basmati has a nuttier quality, while jasmine rice is more faintly floral. [15] Foods with a glycemic index of 70 or lower are preferred in the diet due to their slower absorption which prevents large spikes in blood sugar after consumption. It makes it highly appetizing for mixing with sauces and stews. Explore food stories big & small in our Webby-Winning Podcast, Proof. Jasmine rice, however, is originally from Thailand, but can also be found in Vietnam and Cambodia. Basmati comes from the Himalayan foothills of India and Pakistan. Jasmine rice, in contrast, becomes very moist and sticky. It's easy to confuse raw jasmine and basmati rices: They're both long-grain varieties, and both contain a compound that can give them a popcorn-like aroma. Specifically, 100g of jasmine rice will give you (*): The white and brown kinds of jasmine rice may vary in terms of rice, but these also contain thiamine, niacin, and phytonutrients in minimal amounts. The aroma is not noticeable, and the flavor is somewhat inexistent, which is why it is often used to accompany sauces and meats, as it absorbs their taste. The basmati grains remained distinct and maintained their long, slim shape. Jasmine rice has a sweet aroma. While they are both long-grain, jasmine rice is shorter and round, while basmati rice is considered to be one of the longest kinds. Finally, the texture, smell, and flavor vary between these kinds of rice. Also, brown jasmine rice isn’t as common as its white counterpart and may be hard to find (*). The total aromatic rice, primarily jasmine and basmati, accounts for about 12% global trade. Basmati is originally from the hills of the Himalayas in northern India and Pakistan but now is grown across the world. When cooked, it has a seductive, slightly floral aroma and a soft, clingy texture. Dynasty Jasmine Rice – Editor’s Pick. calrose is a specific cultivar of rice developed from the Japanese rice. We prepared a batch each of basmati rice and jasmine rice and, once they were cooked, their differences became apparent. I prefer Jasmine over basmati in many recipes, especially in soups and stews. However, since it contains the entire grain, including the bran and germ, it is harder in texture. Their brown versions also contain fiber. White basmati rice is easier to cook and use, as it is more fluffy and glutinous. Pinot Noir vs Merlot Comparisons - What Are The Differences? Jasmine is higher at 68-80 versus basmati having a 52 GI. Whether you opt for the traditional variety or one of the hybrids, all types of brown rice take longer to cook. Nevertheless, the jasmine rice is marginally shorter and rounder relative to the very long, thin, and needle-shaped basmati. It also has a higher content of micronutrients, like beta-carotene, but the texture is firmer and harder to cook. As for health, basmati wins too, so in the end, this rice may be the superior choice. While basmati rice is also considered long-grain rice, it could be called extra-long, as the grains are longer, slimmer, and sharper ends. Basmati is a long, skinny rice and shares the long grain group with jasmine and American long grain. They have similar amounts of protein, fat and carbohydrates. We prepared a batch each of basmati rice and jasmine rice and, once they were cooked, their differences became apparent. 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