Best 20 Basmati Rice Brands
We love it fluffy. We love it because the grain remains straight and the texture gives the perfect bite. We love it because it’s non-sticky and the grains remain separated after cooking. We love it because it can be so versatile and aromatic.
It’s the perfect choice for biryani, pilaf, and curry. Basmati is our go-to choice when it comes to rice but not all basmatis are created equal. Which is why we give you here the top of the best basmati rice brands.
The origins of basmati rice
Rice is probably one of the most popular ingredients all over the world. And basmati rice is probably one of the most often chosen types of this grain, mainly due to its perfect texture and its fragrant aroma. After all, its name says “fragrant”! Yes, basmati means fragrant in Indian.
This type of rice has its roots in India, Nepal, and Pakistan. While basmati rice is traditionally grown at the foothills of the Himalayas, there are also brands farmed in the US.
Check out our stories on the best white rice, brown rice and Jasmine rice brands.
With a dry yet not rugged texture, with a balanced level of moisture, with a fluffiness and lightness to it, with a slender, elongated grain, with a floral and aromatic taste, basmati accounts for 70% rice production all over the globe. And it’s no wonder! It has so many benefits for your body as well, not just for your taste buds!
Extra tips: Basmati rice from the US usually has a higher level of arsenic. The best basmati rice is usually aged for one or two years, or even more. This procedure makes the grain dryer and concentrates the flavor. The same procedure is what makes its texture so fluffy and light texture.
What does basmati rice do for your health
Basmati is quite the boss of rice. Sure, we love brown rice for its nutritional value. We adore the nutty flavor and mildly sticky texture of jasmine rice. But when it comes to getting all the advantages combined, basmati is the winner! Not only do we appreciate its goodness and versatility but this type of grain also comes with a variety of health advantages. While brown whole grain rice is the most nutritious of them all, basmati rice actually comes quite close.
Compared to white rice, basmati rice is filled with fiber. Unlike white rice, basmati maintains all its layers during the milling process. The fiber content in basmati rice is about 10% in a 100-gram serving. Due to the fibers in the bran layers, basmati also has a medium glycemic index. The same fiber content is responsible for great digestion and regular bowel movement. Also, due to amylose, a carbohydrate, basmati is a great choice to keep your appetite in check.
Basmati rice is also filled with minerals, vitamins, and other nutrients. Vitamin B1 contributes to the health of red blood cells. B6 aids your metabolism. Vitamin E is a powerhouse due to its antioxidant qualities. Vitamin K in basmati rice aids with blood flow. Riboflavin and pantothenic acids boost the nervous system.
Due to its magnesium and potassium content, basmati rice also regulates blood pressure. Thiamine in this type of rice improves your brain performance and helps your memory stay sharp. And oxoacetic acid helps metabolize the fats which otherwise would turn into ketones and lead to weight-gain and diabetes. Manganese, another mineral in basmati rice, is another great reason to add this grain to your table: this mineral boosts the metabolism as well and also promotes stronger bones. Last but not least, basmati rice is gluten-free, especially if it’s organic.
We tried out 20 of the best basmati rice brands
Don’t just go to the shelf and pick one! Sure you could do that and try out various types until you’ve found your match. But wouldn’t it be such a pity? Instead, why not go for the best choice for you from the get-go. We have evaluated a lot of basmati rice brands to make sure you’re informed. We took into consideration the overall quality, the taste and aroma of the rice, the texture after cooking, the versatility, the price, the nutritional value, and the lack of preservatives and added artificial ingredients and additives.
1. Royal White Basmati Rice
This rice is probably the best buy for an authentically grown Indian rice. After all, it’s grown in local crops in India, on the foothills of the Himalayas! Another great aspect of this brand: this rice is aged for one year, which means it has extra flavor. It is deemed one of the best due to its short cooking time (20 minutes) and its versatility. It can be used in stir-fries, pilafs, curry, and delicious sides.
- Not organic but, still, non-GMO, with high quality grain
- Vegan, gluten-free, kosher, halal, and fat-free
- As a minus: the package can easily split, so make sure to store it in a container
2. Pride of India Extra Long Indian Basmati Rice
Do you want extra-aromatic basmati rice? Ding-ding-ding! Here’s your winner! Authentically grown and aged, this rice has an exotic aroma and it goes great with curries and biryani.
- Extra thin and long grain
- Aged for two years, hence the packed flavor
- No chemicals, no pesticides, 100% natural
- High in antioxidants, manganese, and protein
- Great package, jar-type, made from BPA-free plastic
3. Daawat Traditional Basmati Rice
This one is the connoisseur’s favorite. Daawat is actually a very popular brand and their range is quite impressive. If you’re a fan of rice, you must check their variety!
- Slender, elongated grain
- Nutty and exotic flavor
4. Lundberg Family Farms California White Basmati Rice
This brand offers a great variety of rice as well. They cultivate organic options too, and they stand by sustainability and eco-positive farming practices.
- Less arsenic content than other types of rice
- Mild flavor
- Great texture; however, if you’re passionate about the slender grain of basmati, you should know this brand has a shorter grain
5. Pride of India Extra Long Brown Basmati
With a nutty flavor and a floral hint, this rice is a staple for Asian cuisine. It’s grown organically, with no GMO. It’s aged for two years, giving it a deeper, stronger flavor.
- Extra long and thing grain size
- 100% natural rice, produced in India, packed in the US
6. Tilda Legendary Rice, Pure Original Basmati
We recommend this brand because it’s another brand that sources basmati from the Indian non-GMO farms on the foothills of the Himalayas.
- Great package, keeping the rice fresh and maintaining its texture and aroma in the pantry
- Nutty flavor and a hint of flower aroma
- No artificial flavoring added
7. Lundberg Organic Rice, Brown Basmati
The Lundberg family farms have been growing the best basmati grains since 1937. That actually means something: they are dedicated to bringing you the best, most aromatic and finely textured, fluffy basmati rice.
- More vitamins and minerals than white basmati
- Certified vegan and kosher
- Non-GMO
8. Kohinoor Super Silver Basmati Rice
This is a premium basmati rice, renowned in India for its qualities. It is aged to give it its rich, deep aroma.
- Extra long grain
- Authentic taste
- Aged to develop flavorful grains
- Ideal for every dish, from Indian cuisine to western recipes
9. Daawat Ultima Extra Long Grain Basmati Rice
Another recognized name from Daawat, and another highly appreciated traditional basmati rice. Also grown in the Himalayas, this rice is extra long, has a fine texture and a nice flavor. Due to its texture and flavor this rice can be used in various recipes, from pilaf to stews, from curry to soups and sides.
- Probably the longest grain of all the different brands
- It has a deep, earthy flavor, with hints of nuts and even butter
- However, it’s accused of not being very aromatic compared to the staple basmati exotic floral flavor
- Aged for a minimum of two years
- Extra fluffiness when it comes to texture
10. Tasty Bite Organic Basmati Rice
If you’re on the lookout for convenience, this one is the right one for you! It’s already cooked and all you have to do is microwave it! It has a great scent, packs quite the flavor, and it’s ready in about 90 seconds.
- Ideal for side dishes and curry
- Although it’s already cooked, it’s quite healthy: vegan, gluten-free, no added preservatives, no fat, no sodium
- If you like traditional basmati, this option may seem a little too wet and sticky
11. Shrilalmahal Empire Basmati Rice
With a great aroma and typical basmati flavor, Shrilalmahal has that extra long grain we all seek when it comes to this type of rice. It is aged for more than two years and it shows in the texture and taste.
12. VeeTee Rice & Tasty Basmati
Another quick-to-the-table option! This is ready-steamed basmati rice but it still has freshness and its authentic taste. It’s ready to eat in less than two minutes!
- Aromatic scent and fluffy, light texture
- Gluten-free
- No artificial flavors, preservatives or coloring added
- While it’s ready in a couple of minutes and doesn’t contain artificial ingredients, it does pack large amounts of salt
13. Seeds of Change Organic Brown Basmati Rice
Organic, high-quality, BPA-free package and it cooks in less than two minutes. Must be Seeds of Change! This is the perfect choice for people who always run out of time to cook!
- Although it’s ready-made, it contains no artificial flavors, coloring or added preservatives
- Nutty flavor, specific for basmati rice
- A little chewy when it comes to texture
14. Aahu Barah Basmati Rice
This rice is a top-choice for renowned chefs and award-winning restaurants in India. It has the typical long grain and we recommend it if you want to stay in shape and maintain your health.
- Non-GMO
- Very flavorful
- No sodium, no sugar, no fats, no cholesterol
- Rich in protein and iron
15. Food to Live Organic Basmati Rice
If you’re all about healthy living, this is the best option for you! Not only is this brown, organic rice a high-quality grain but it’s also vegan-friendly and environment-friendly. It’s minimally processed and it packs quite the flavor.
- One of the best basmati rice brands since it contains more minerals and vitamins
- It has a nutty, earthy flavor with a deep aroma that lingers
16. Dunar Elonga Basmati Rice
Dunar is a premium basmati supplier and they invest in good, high-tech, modern equipment to process the grains. They aim to always provide non-GMO crops and a consistently high-quality.
- Fluffy, soft textured grains, authentic deep, nutty flavor
- High in protein
- Kosher certified
- It can have a creamy or slightly sticky texture that might not appeal to lovers of traditional basmati
17. Banyan Botanicals Basmati Rice
Unlike most of the brands listed above, Banyan Botanicals is produced in California, not in the Himalayas. However, it maintains its nutty aroma specific to the grains grown in India. This is a certified organic product, sourced in a sustainable manner.
- Easy to digest
- It has a light, rather moist texture and a sweet taste
- Ideal for all types of foods, from side dishes to curry, stir-fry, pilafs, and desserts
- USDA certified organic
18. Crown Premium Quality White Basmati Rice
Grown in the Pakistani Himalayas, this rice packs a fragrant aroma and has a strong, nutty taste. It provides the airy, fluffy texture we seek in basmati rice.
- USDA organic
- Non-GMO
- Versatile, can be cooked in all types of recipes
- Might be a little stickier and starchier than one would expect
19. Zafarani Reserve GMO-Free Long Grain Basmati Rice
This rice packs a rich flavor and a deep aroma. It is aged for one year and it shows in its non-sticky texture, its fluffiness, and its pleasant aroma.
- GMO-free
- Gluten-free
- Extra long grain
20. My Skinny Rice Low GI Basmati Rice
Although placed last, My Skinny is one of the best basmati rice brands. It’s a great choice for a healthy diet, since it does not contain pesticides, chemicals, sodium, or fat. It’s also kosher and gluten-free and it packs a lot of protein.
- Ideal for diabetics since it contains slow-release carbs
- No artificial colors or added flavors
- Why did we choose to place it last? Well, when it comes to basmati we look for aroma and texture. This brand has a mild flavor and the texture rather resembles parboiled rice.
What can you do with basmati rice
Entrees, side dishes, desserts, main courses: you name it, basmati rice can be a part of it! A great pair for meats, curry (both meat and vegetarian), and biryani, basmati is so versatile!
Extra tips: most recipes you’ll find online recommend you soak the basmati rice. This will only make it rather sticky and it will lose its fluffy, light consistency. Soaking is not needed, in fact it will make the rice clump together. Make sure to rinse it after cooking though!
Vegetarian recipes with basmati rice
Veggie Curry
- 2 cups of basmati rice (Daawat, Banyan, Tasty Bites, Royal)
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp hot paprika
- 3 tsp yellow curry
- 50 5 ghee or butter or oil (CHECK THE QUANTITY)
- 1 finely chopped shallot
- 2 garlic cloves
- 2 tsp grated or finely chopped ginger
- 2 carrots
- 600 gr veggie stock
- 2 cups frozen peas
- Salt and pepper to a taste
- Yogurt
- Coriander leaves
- Nuts
Heat the cooking fat in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the garlic and ginger and cook for less than a minute. Add the onion and cook until it’s soft. Add the carrots and cook for 3-4 minutes so they become al dente and sweet. Add the rice and then the spices, the broth, the salt and pepper and bring to a boil. Stir once, turn the heat to low, and place a lid on top. It takes about 15 minutes for the rice to cook. After 14-15 minutes there should be no liquid left and you can remove the rice from the heat source. Let it rest for 10 minutes and then fluff it with a fork or wooden spatula. Add the nuts, coriander, and yogurt and serve.
Saffron rice
- 1.5 cups of basmati rice (Daawat and Royal are great for this recipe)
- Saffron
- 2 green cardamom
- 2 cloves
- Pinch of turmeric
- ½ caraway seeds
- 1.5 tbsp unsalted butter/coconut oil
Heat the butter or oil in a deep pot. Add all the spices and fry them until they release all the flavors. Add the rice after soaking it for just a couple of minutes (don’t soak it for more since the texture will become rather sticky). Stir and add the saffron (crush it with your fingers). Add the turmeric and stir again. Add water and salt. Cover the pan and let it cook until the rice has absorbed all the water. Make sure to check on it so it doesn’t stick to the pan. At the end, fluff it with a fork. You can garnish it with parsley, coriander, mint, and even yogurt.
Non-vegetarian recipes with basmati rice
Fried rice with eggs and veggies (Banyan, Royal, Food to live, Daawat)
- 1 ½ cups of rice, soaked for less than 10 minutes
- 1 carrot finely chopped
- ½ cup of green beans finely chopped
- ¼ cup of peas
- 1 hot chili pepper
- ¼ a medium cabbage or kale
- Salt and pepper
- 1 teaspoon oil or butter or ghee
- 4 garlic cloves finely chopped
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- Chopped spring onion, sesame seeds, and fried eggs for garnishing
Boil the indicated amount of water for your chosen rice. Use a non-stick deep pan. Add salt and the rice. Cover and cook until the rice is fluffy. Strain and leave aside to rest. In another pan, heat the fat. Add the garlic and saute for less than one minute. Add the veggies and saute for 2-3 minutes. Mix in the cooked rice and soy sauce and toss well. Cook together for one minute. If needed, add a little water so that the texture remains non-sticky and airy. Transfer to a serving plate and add garnish.
Chicken Biryani (Pride of India, Crown, Royal are the best basmati rice brands for this recipe)
- 700 g chicken (keep the bones for a richer taste), cut in about 15 pieces
- 1.5 cups of basmati rice
- Salt and pepper
- 2 black cardamoms
- A pinch of cinnamon
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 green cardamoms
- 4 cloves
- ½ tsp turmeric powder
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 1 tsp biryani masala
- 1 tsp caraway seeds
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 3 tsp ghee
- 2 onions
- 1 cup of full fat yogurt
Boil the water. Add the salt, pepper, cinnamon, bay leaves, all the cardamoms, the cloves, and the rice. Cook until the rice absorbs all the water and leave it aside. Heat the ghee and add the caraway seeds and cook the onions. Add the ginger, turmeric, chili powder, and coriander powder and saute for a couple of minutes, stirring well. Add the chicken pieces, salt, and biryani masala and mix well. When the chicken is cooked, mix in the yogurt and then add the mixture to the rice. You can sprinkle green leaves (mint or coriander), fried onions, and some more ghee on top.
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