The 10 Best Types of Rice for Indian Curry

Did you know that there are over 40,000 different types of rice in the world? It’s mind-boggling!

But when it comes to choosing the perfect rice for Indian curry, there are 10 types that stand out from the rest.

In this article, I’ll be sharing the top 10 best types of rice for Indian curry, based on their flavor, texture, and ability to complement the rich and aromatic spices.

So, let’s dive in and discover the perfect rice to elevate your curry game!

Basmati Rice

You should definitely try using basmati rice for your Indian curry. It is the perfect choice to complement the rich and aromatic flavors of Indian spices.

Basmati rice has a distinct nutty aroma and a delicate, fluffy texture that adds a wonderful dimension to your curry dishes. When cooked properly, each grain of basmati rice remains separate, making it ideal for absorbing all the delicious flavors of the curry sauce.

Not only does basmati rice enhance the taste of your curry, but it also adds a beautiful presentation to your dish with its long, slender grains.

Jasmine Rice

If you’re craving a fragrant and fluffy accompaniment to your Indian curry, consider using jasmine rice.

I absolutely love using jasmine rice when I make my favorite curry dishes. Not only does it have a beautiful aroma that fills my kitchen, but it also has a delicate and soft texture that pairs perfectly with the rich and flavorful curry.

The grains of jasmine rice are slightly shorter and stickier than other types of rice, which helps it absorb the flavors of the curry sauce. It also has a subtle floral fragrance that adds an extra layer of complexity to the overall dish.

Whether I’m making a spicy curry or a creamy one, jasmine rice never fails to impress with its fragrant and fluffy qualities.

Sona Masoori Rice

When you’re looking for a lighter and less sticky rice option, consider trying sona masoori rice.

I personally love the texture and taste of this rice variety.

It is a medium-grain rice that originates from the southern regions of India.

Sona masoori rice is known for its fluffy and separate grains when cooked, making it perfect for pairing with Indian curries.

It has a subtle nutty flavor that complements the spices in the curry without overpowering them.

The grains also absorb the flavors of the curry well, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Additionally, sona masoori rice cooks relatively quickly, which is a bonus when you’re pressed for time.

Brown Rice

Brown rice is a nutritious and whole grain alternative to white rice. I love incorporating brown rice into my diet because it is packed with nutrients and offers numerous health benefits.

Unlike white rice, which has been stripped of its bran and germ layers, brown rice retains these nutritious components. It is a great source of fiber, which helps regulate digestion and keeps me feeling full for longer periods. Brown rice is also rich in essential minerals like magnesium and selenium, which contribute to overall health and well-being.

Additionally, it has a lower glycemic index compared to white rice, making it a better option for managing blood sugar levels. Overall, I find that brown rice is a delicious and nutritious choice that adds a wholesome element to my meals.

Red Rice

Red rice is a flavorful and nutritious option that adds variety to my meals. It has a beautiful reddish color that makes it visually appealing. Not only does it taste great, but it also has numerous health benefits.

This type of rice is rich in antioxidants, fiber, and minerals like iron and zinc. It is also known to have a lower glycemic index compared to white rice, which means it helps regulate blood sugar levels.

I love using red rice in my dishes, especially in Indian curries. It adds a nutty flavor and a slightly chewy texture that enhances the overall taste.

Red rice is a delicious and wholesome choice that I enjoy incorporating into my meals.

Black Rice

If you’re looking for a unique and nutritious option, black rice is a great choice. I love cooking with black rice because it adds a beautiful contrast to my dishes.

Not only does it have a distinct flavor, but it also has many health benefits. Black rice is rich in antioxidants, fiber, and iron, making it a great addition to any balanced diet.

When cooked, it turns a deep, dark purple color, which is visually appealing and adds a touch of elegance to any meal. Whether I’m making a stir-fry or a salad, black rice always adds a delicious and satisfying element to my dishes.

Gobindobhog Rice

Gobindobhog rice, a popular variety in Bengali cuisine, is known for its aromatic flavor and sticky texture. I love cooking with Gobindobhog rice because it adds a unique taste to my dishes.

The grains are short and plump, and they have a natural sweetness that enhances the flavors of the spices and curries. When I cook Gobindobhog rice, it releases a delightful aroma that fills my kitchen and makes my mouth water.

The sticky texture of this rice makes it perfect for dishes like pulao or biryani, as it helps bind all the ingredients together. Whether it’s a simple dal or a rich and flavorful curry, Gobindobhog rice always brings a delicious and satisfying element to my meals.

Ambemohar Rice

When cooking with Ambemohar rice, you’ll enjoy its fragrant aroma and delicious taste. This variety of rice is a popular choice in Maharashtra, a state in Western India. As a rice lover, I can attest to the unique qualities of Ambemohar rice.

The grains are slender and pearly white, and they cook up fluffy and separate, making it perfect for Indian curry dishes. The fragrance of this rice is truly captivating, reminiscent of the tropical mangoes that are abundant in Maharashtra. The taste is equally delightful, with a subtle sweetness that complements the spices in the curry.

Whether it’s a simple vegetable pulao or a decadent biryani, Ambemohar rice adds a touch of elegance and flavor that will keep you coming back for more.

Ponni Rice

Now let’s talk about Ponni Rice, another fantastic option for Indian curry.

I personally love using Ponni Rice because it has a unique texture and flavor that complements the rich spices in the curry. It is a medium-grain rice that is known for its softness and ability to absorb flavors well.

When cooked, Ponni Rice has a slightly sticky and fluffy texture, making it perfect for dishes like biryani or pulao. The grains are also firm and separate, adding a delightful mouthfeel to every bite.

Whether you’re making a spicy chicken curry or a creamy vegetable korma, Ponni Rice is sure to enhance the overall taste and experience of your dish.

Jeera Rice

Jeera Rice is a popular choice for many Indian dishes due to its aromatic flavor and fluffy texture.

I absolutely love using jeera rice as a base for my curries. The fragrance of cumin seeds that fills the air when I cook it is simply irresistible.

Not to mention, the fluffy and separate grains that make every bite a delight. Jeera rice pairs perfectly with a variety of curries, whether it’s a spicy chicken curry or a creamy vegetarian korma.

The subtle nutty flavor of the cumin seeds adds a wonderful depth to the overall dish. Whenever I serve jeera rice to my family and friends, they always rave about how it elevates the flavors of the curry.

It’s no wonder why jeera rice is a staple in Indian cuisine.