Basmati Rice
Grains
Nutri-ScoreC

Basmati Rice

Oryza sativa

Clinical Encyclopedia

SM
Nutri-Score & Health Summary

Basmati Rice provides 130 kcal, 2.7g of protein, 28.2g of carbohydrates, and 0.4g of fiber per 100g. With a Nutri-Score grade 'C', it is a highly recommended option for nutrient density.

Basmati rice is a long-grain aromatic rice known for its distinct fragrance and fluffy texture when cooked. It is a staple in South Asian cuisine and is often used in dishes like biryani and pilaf.

Also known as:
Aromatic RiceLong Grain Rice
Scientific NameOryza sativa
Region of OriginIndia and Pakistan

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories130 kcal
Water
12%
Fiber0.4g
Total31.2g
Protein
2.7g(9%)
Fats
0.3g(1%)
Carbohydrates
28.2g(90%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Complete Micronutrient Breakdown

Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.

Vitamins

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Vitamin b1 (thiamine)0.07 mg (6%)
Vitamin b3 (niacin)0.4 mg (2%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DVNone registered

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Magnesium12 mg (3%)
Phosphorus43 mg (4%)
Minerals with less than 2% DVNone registered

Health Benefits

Rich in carbohydrates, providing a quick source of energy.
Contains essential amino acids, promoting muscle repair and growth.
Low in fat and cholesterol-free, making it heart-healthy.
Gluten-free, suitable for individuals with gluten intolerance.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!Excessive consumption may lead to weight gain due to high carbohydrate content.
!May cause blood sugar spikes in individuals with diabetes if consumed in large quantities.

How to Prepare & Consume

Rinse the rice thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch. Soak for 30 minutes to enhance texture and reduce cooking time. Cook with a 1:1.5 rice-to-water ratio for best results.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose basmati rice with long, slender grains and a fragrant aroma. Avoid rice with broken grains or a musty smell.

How to Store

Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. For long-term storage, consider refrigeration or freezing.

Myths vs Realities

MythBasmati rice is always healthier than other rice types.
RealityWhile basmati rice has certain health benefits, moderation is key, and other rice types can also be nutritious.
MythAll basmati rice is the same.
RealityThere are different grades of basmati rice, and quality can vary significantly based on origin and processing.
MythBasmati rice is high in gluten.
RealityBasmati rice is naturally gluten-free, making it safe for those with gluten intolerance.

Healthy Recipes

Lemon Herb Basmati Rice Salad

A refreshing salad combining zesty lemon, fresh herbs, and colorful vegetables with fluffy basmati rice for a nutritious meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked basmati rice
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cucumber, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked basmati rice, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and parsley.
  2. 2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Pour the dressing over the rice mixture and toss gently to combine. Serve chilled.

Spicy Basmati Rice and Chickpea Bowl

A protein-packed bowl featuring spiced basmati rice and chickpeas, topped with creamy avocado and a tangy yogurt sauce.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked basmati rice
  • 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and add chickpeas, cumin, paprika, cayenne, and salt. Cook until heated through.
  2. 2. In a bowl, layer the cooked basmati rice, spiced chickpeas, and sliced avocado.
  3. 3. Drizzle with Greek yogurt and serve warm.

Coconut Curry Basmati Rice

A fragrant dish of basmati rice infused with coconut milk and curry spices, perfect as a side or main dish.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup basmati rice
  • 1 can coconut milk
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon curry powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
  2. 2. In a saucepan, combine coconut milk, vegetable broth, curry powder, turmeric, and salt. Bring to a boil.
  3. 3. Add the rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until rice is tender. Fluff with a fork and garnish with cilantro.

Mediterranean Basmati Rice Pilaf

A vibrant pilaf featuring basmati rice, olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese, perfect for a healthy Mediterranean-inspired meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup basmati rice
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
  • 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
  • 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a saucepan, bring vegetable broth to a boil and add basmati rice. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
  2. 2. Once cooked, fluff the rice and stir in sun-dried tomatoes, olives, feta, basil, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Serve warm as a side or main dish.

Basmati Rice and Vegetable Stir-Fry

A quick and colorful stir-fry with basmati rice, seasonal vegetables, and a savory soy sauce glaze.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked basmati rice
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
  • Green onions for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large skillet, heat sesame oil over medium heat. Add garlic and ginger, sauté for 1 minute.
  2. 2. Add mixed vegetables and stir-fry until tender-crisp, about 5 minutes.
  3. 3. Stir in the cooked basmati rice and soy sauce, mixing well. Garnish with green onions before serving.

Basmati Rice Stuffed Bell Peppers

Colorful bell peppers stuffed with a savory mixture of basmati rice, black beans, corn, and spices, baked to perfection.

Ingredients
  • 4 bell peppers, halved and seeded
  • 1 cup cooked basmati rice
  • 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt to taste
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. 2. In a bowl, mix cooked basmati rice, black beans, corn, cumin, chili powder, and salt.
  3. 3. Stuff each bell pepper half with the rice mixture, top with cheese if desired, and place in a baking dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes until peppers are tender.

Basmati Rice Sushi Rolls

Healthy sushi rolls made with basmati rice, fresh vegetables, and avocado, perfect for a fun and nutritious meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked basmati rice
  • 4 sheets nori
  • 1 cucumber, julienned
  • 1 carrot, julienned
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • Soy sauce for dipping
  • Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. Lay a sheet of nori on a bamboo sushi mat. Spread a thin layer of cooked basmati rice over the nori, leaving a border.
  2. 2. Arrange cucumber, carrot, and avocado along the edge of the rice. Roll tightly using the mat.
  3. 3. Slice into pieces, sprinkle with sesame seeds, and serve with soy sauce.

Herbed Basmati Rice with Grilled Chicken

Juicy grilled chicken served over a bed of herbed basmati rice, making for a wholesome and satisfying meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked basmati rice
  • 2 chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon mixed herbs (thyme, rosemary, parsley)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
  1. 1. Marinate chicken breasts in olive oil, mixed herbs, salt, and pepper for at least 30 minutes.
  2. 2. Grill chicken over medium heat for 6-7 minutes on each side until cooked through.
  3. 3. Serve grilled chicken over herbed basmati rice with lemon wedges.

Basmati Rice Pudding with Almonds

A creamy and comforting dessert made with basmati rice, almond milk, and topped with crunchy almonds and a hint of cinnamon.

Ingredients
  • 1/2 cup basmati rice
  • 2 cups almond milk
  • 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup sliced almonds
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
  1. 1. In a saucepan, combine basmati rice, almond milk, honey, cinnamon, and vanilla. Bring to a simmer.
  2. 2. Cook on low heat, stirring occasionally, until rice is tender and pudding thickens, about 20 minutes.
  3. 3. Serve warm or chilled, topped with sliced almonds.

Basmati Rice and Lentil Curry

A hearty and nutritious curry made with basmati rice and lentils simmered in aromatic spices and coconut milk.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup basmati rice
  • 1 cup lentils, rinsed
  • 1 can coconut milk
  • 1 tablespoon curry powder
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a pot, sauté onion and garlic until translucent. Add lentils, coconut milk, vegetable broth, curry powder, and salt.
  2. 2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until lentils are tender, about 25 minutes.
  3. 3. Serve over cooked basmati rice.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is basmati rice?

Basmati rice is a long-grain rice variety known for its aromatic fragrance and fluffy texture.

How is basmati rice different from regular rice?

Basmati rice has a unique aroma and longer grains compared to regular rice, which makes it fluffier when cooked.

Is basmati rice healthy?

Yes, basmati rice is low in fat, gluten-free, and provides essential nutrients, making it a healthy choice.

How should I store basmati rice?

Store basmati rice in an airtight container in a cool, dry place to maintain its freshness.

Can I use basmati rice for sushi?

No, basmati rice is not suitable for sushi as it does not have the sticky texture required for sushi preparation.

How long does cooked basmati rice last in the fridge?

Cooked basmati rice can last up to 4-6 days in the refrigerator when stored properly.

What dishes can I make with basmati rice?

Basmati rice is versatile and can be used in biryani, pilaf, fried rice, and as a side dish.

Is basmati rice good for diabetics?

Basmati rice has a lower glycemic index compared to other rice varieties, making it a better option for diabetics when consumed in moderation.