RiceSelect® Premium Indian Basmati Rice

Experience Basmati rice as it’s meant to be. Authentically grown and sustainably sourced from India, RiceSelect® Premium Basmati rice is naturally aged for a signature nutty flavor, fluffy texture, and unforgettable taste.​

Benefits

  • Sustainably sourced rice from India*
  • Cooks in just 15 minutes
  • Sustainable SRP-Verified Rice, Non-GMO, Certified Gluten-Free, and Certified Kosher​
  • Low-fat and low-sodium
  • No cholesterol, additives, or preservatives

*Meets sustainability benchmarks under the SRP Standard for Sustainable Rice Cultivation. Learn more at www.sustainablerice.org.

Where Does Basmati Rice Come from?

The origins of Basmati rice can be traced back to the Himalayas mountain range of India and Pakistan. The word “Basmati” derives from the Sanskrit word for “fragrant” and it’s no wonder why. For millennia this aromatic grain has served as the base for a wide range of dishes in Asian cuisine, from rice pilafs to curries to stews and soups. Basmati rice is famous for its floral aroma, nutty taste, and fluffy and chewy texture. Alternatively, when cooked in the oven, Basmati takes on a crispiness and enhances the texture profile of baked or roasted meals. 

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Cooking Basmati Rice – Do’s and Don’ts Cooking

DO DON'T
  1. Soak or Rinse the Rice

    • If you prefer, soak the rice for 20-30 minutes or rinse before cooking. This removes excess starch and enables the grains to expand and cook more evenly.
  1. Don’t Stir While Cooking

    • Stirring disrupts the grains and can make the rice mushy.
  1. Use the Correct Water Ratio

    • For stovetop cooking, the general ratio is 1 cup of rice to 1.5–2 cups of water, depending on how firm or soft you prefer the rice.
  1. Don’t Use Too Much Water

    • Excess water can overcook the rice, making it soggy. Use the correct ratio and drain excess water if necessary.
  1. Use a Lid

    • Always cook Basmati rice with a tight-fitting lid to retain steam.
  1. Don’t Open the Lid Frequently

    • Avoid lifting the lid during cooking; this lets steam escape and affects how the grains turn out.
  1. Cook on Low Heat

    • Once the water starts boiling, reduce the heat to low to allow the rice to cook gently without scorching.
  1. Don’t Overcook

    • Overcooking Basmati can cause it to break and lose its delicate texture.
  1. Fluff with a Fork

    • Once the rice is cooked, let it rest for 5 minutes, then fluff it gently with a fork to separate the grains.
  1. Don’t Cook on High Heat

    • High heat can cause the rice to burn on the bottom before the grains are fully cooked. Once you’ve brought it to the boil, be sure to reduce the heat to a simmer.
  1. Measure Accurately

    • Measure rice and water properly for consistent results.
  1. Don’t Skip Resting

    • Letting the rice rest after cooking is crucial for steam distribution and fluffiness.
  1. Opt for Aromatic Additions

    • Add spices like cardamom, cloves, or a bay leaf to the cooking water for added flavor.
  1. Don’t Add Cold Water Midway

    • Adding cold water while cooking can shock the rice, affecting its texture and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions about Basmati Rice

Is Basmati Rice considered long grain or short grain?

Basmati rice is a long grain rice variety that retains its fluffy and singular consistency when cooked. It also has a lower starch content than short and medium grain rice varieties and therefore doesn’t become sticky when cooked.

Is Basmati Rice whole grain?

Much like other varieties of rice, this depends on the variety you’re cooking with. White Basmati is not whole grain, as the bran and germ have been removed. Brown Basmati retains the bran and germ and is as such classified as whole grain.

Is Basmati Rice gluten-free?

The simple answer is: yes, it is. Basmati rice is a great option for people who suffer from gluten intolerance, also known as Celiac disease. However, it is always important to check the package for labels to ensure that the Basmati rice you’re consuming has not been exposed to any potential cross-contact-contamination.

Is Basmati Rice good for you?

Basmati rice is a nutrient-rich option when consumed as part of a balanced diet. It provides a good source of carbohydrates, protein, and other nutrients. It also has a medium to low glycemic index.

How long does Basmati Rice keep?

When stored in a cool dry place, Basmati rice has a shelf life of up to two years. Once cooked, it can be stored for up to 7 days in the refrigerator, or up to 6 months in the freezer.

What do we mean by sustainably-sourced Basmati Rice?

Our Premium Basmati rice is sustainably sourced from India. Our SRP-Verified grains meet the world’s first voluntary sustainability standard for rice, supporting climate-smart agriculture and protecting biodiversity. When you choose RiceSelect Premium Basmati Rice, you’re helping reduce the environmental impact of rice cultivation, supporting smallholder and women farmers, and investing in a more fair and sustainable market. Learn more at www.sustainablerice.org.

What is the serving size of Basmati Rice?

The serving size of RiceSelect Premium Basmati is ¼ cup (45g) of rice. There are about 20 servings per 32 oz jar container

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