The 10 Best Types of Rice for Paella

I’ve discovered the secret to the perfect paella, and it all starts with the right type of rice.

But here’s the catch: not all rice is created equal. So, if you’re ready to take your paella game to the next level, buckle up because I’m about to reveal the 10 best types of rice for this iconic dish.

Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with varieties like Bomba, Calasparra, and Arborio. Trust me, your paella will never be the same again.

Bomba Rice

If you’re making paella, you should definitely try using Bomba Rice. This short-grain variety originates from the Valencia region in Spain, where paella was born.

As a chef, I have found that Bomba Rice is the perfect choice for paella. It has a unique ability to absorb the rich flavors of the broth and spices while still maintaining its firm texture.

Bomba Rice has a high amylose content, allowing it to absorb up to three times its own weight in liquid. This means that every grain of Bomba Rice is bursting with flavor, creating a truly delicious and satisfying paella experience.

Calasparra Rice

To make the perfect paella, you should definitely consider using Calasparra rice. I’ve tried many types of rice in my paella recipes, and Calasparra rice always delivers the best results.

It has a unique ability to absorb flavors while staying firm and separate, giving the dish a delightful texture. The grains are short and plump, perfect for absorbing the rich broth and spices that make paella so delicious.

Calasparra rice also has a high starch content, which helps create that coveted creamy texture in the dish. Whether you’re making a seafood paella or a traditional Valencian paella, Calasparra rice is the perfect choice for achieving that authentic and mouthwatering taste.

Arborio Rice

When making risotto, I always opt for arborio rice due to its ability to absorb flavors and create a creamy texture. Arborio rice is a short-grain rice that originates from Italy. It has a high starch content, which makes it perfect for risotto dishes.

The grains are plump and chewy, providing a satisfying bite in every spoonful. As I cook the arborio rice, I can see it gradually absorbing the broth or stock I add to the dish, transforming into a velvety and rich mixture. The starch released from the rice creates a creamy sauce that coats each grain beautifully.

This quality of arborio rice allows me to experiment with various flavors, adding a depth and richness to my risotto creations.

Carnaroli Rice

Consider using carnaroli rice for your risotto if you want a creamier texture and a more resistant grain that holds its shape well during cooking.

I’ve always been a fan of carnaroli rice for my risotto dishes because it absorbs liquid slowly, allowing the flavors to develop fully. The result is a rich and creamy risotto that is simply irresistible.

Unlike other types of rice, carnaroli has a higher starch content, which gives it that velvety texture that we all love. Not only does it retain its shape when cooked, but it also releases just the right amount of starch to create a luscious sauce that coats each grain perfectly.

Valencia Rice

Valencia rice, with its short and round grains, is essential for achieving the perfect texture in a traditional paella dish. As a rice enthusiast, I can attest to the importance of using the right type of rice when preparing paella.

The short grains of Valencia rice have a unique ability to absorb the flavorful broth and spices, creating a rich and creamy consistency. Its round shape helps the rice cook evenly, ensuring that each grain is tender and full of flavor.

When I cook paella at home, I always reach for Valencia rice because it guarantees a delightful eating experience. The grains hold their shape well and provide a satisfying bite, making it the ideal choice for a mouthwatering paella.

Sushi Rice

Sushi rice, known for its sticky texture, is a key ingredient in creating perfectly formed and flavorful sushi rolls. I love working with sushi rice because it’s so versatile and easy to work with.

The stickiness of the rice helps hold the sushi rolls together, ensuring that each bite is a perfect combination of flavors. When making sushi at home, I always make sure to rinse the rice thoroughly before cooking it. This removes any excess starch and helps achieve that perfect stickiness.

I also like to season the rice with a mixture of rice vinegar, sugar, and salt to give it that classic sushi flavor. Sushi rice truly is the foundation of any great sushi roll, and I always make sure to have it on hand for my sushi-making adventures.

Jasmine Rice

Jasmine rice, with its fragrant aroma and fluffy texture, is a popular choice for many Asian dishes. I love cooking with jasmine rice because it adds a wonderful fragrance to my meals. It is a staple in my kitchen, especially when I’m making dishes like stir-fried vegetables or curry.

The grains of jasmine rice are long and slender, and when cooked, they become soft and separate easily. This makes it perfect for absorbing the flavors of the dish and creating a light and fluffy texture. Whether I’m serving it as a side dish or using it as a base for a main course, jasmine rice always adds a touch of elegance to my meals.

Basmati Rice

Basmati rice, known for its distinct aroma and long grains, is a popular choice for many Indian and Middle Eastern dishes. I love cooking with Basmati rice because it adds a fragrant and nutty flavor to my recipes. The grains are slender and elongated, which gives the dish a beautiful presentation.

When I cook Basmati rice, I always make sure to rinse it thoroughly to remove any excess starch and improve its texture. Then, I cook it with just the right amount of water to ensure that the grains are fluffy and separate.

Whether it’s a biryani, pilaf, or curry, Basmati rice never fails to impress with its delicate taste and delightful aroma.

Camargue Red Rice

Camargue red rice, with its distinctive nutty flavor and chewy texture, is a versatile grain that adds depth to a variety of dishes. I love using this rice in my cooking because it brings a unique taste and texture to my meals.

Whether I’m making a stir-fry, a salad, or even a paella, Camargue red rice always elevates the dish to another level. Its deep red color adds a pop of vibrancy to the plate, making it visually appealing as well.

The nutty flavor complements a range of ingredients, from vegetables to meats, and the chewy texture provides a satisfying bite. Camargue red rice is truly a gem in my pantry, and I highly recommend trying it if you want to add some depth and excitement to your meals.

Black Rice

Black rice, also known as forbidden rice, has a rich, nutty flavor and a striking deep purple color that adds a touch of elegance to any dish. I absolutely love cooking with black rice because it not only tastes amazing, but it also looks incredibly beautiful on the plate.

The flavor is so unique and it pairs well with a variety of ingredients. Whether it’s in a stir-fry, a salad, or even a dessert, black rice never fails to impress. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients like antioxidants and fiber, making it a healthier choice compared to other types of rice.

Whenever I serve black rice, it always becomes the star of the meal, and my guests can’t help but rave about its distinct flavor and stunning appearance.