The 10 Best Types of Rice for Rice Water

I absolutely love rice water, and let me tell you, there are so many amazing types of rice to use for it!

In this article, I’ll be sharing with you the 10 best types of rice for rice water.

From the fragrant Basmati Rice to the sticky and delicious Glutinous Rice, there’s a rice out there for everyone’s taste.

So, let’s dive in and explore the world of rice water together!

Basmati Rice

If you’re looking for a fragrant and long-grain rice, basmati rice is the perfect choice for making rice water. I love using basmati rice because it adds a wonderful aroma to the rice water, making it even more enjoyable to use in my beauty routine.

The long grains of basmati rice release starch easily, creating a thick and nourishing rice water that is great for my hair and skin.

It’s also worth mentioning that basmati rice is known for its low glycemic index, which means it won’t cause a sudden spike in blood sugar levels. This makes it a healthier option for those watching their sugar intake.

Overall, basmati rice offers a delightful fragrance and numerous benefits, making it an excellent choice for rice water.

Jasmine Rice

When cooking jasmine rice, you’ll notice its delicate floral aroma that adds a delightful fragrance to your dishes. It’s one of my favorite types of rice because it has a unique taste and texture. The grains are long, slender, and slightly sticky when cooked, making it perfect for Asian-inspired dishes like stir-fries and curries.

The fragrance of jasmine rice is reminiscent of jasmine flowers, giving it a pleasant and exotic flavor. It pairs well with various ingredients, absorbing their flavors and enhancing the overall taste of the dish. Whether you’re making a simple bowl of rice or a complex Thai curry, jasmine rice is a versatile and delicious option that will elevate your meals to the next level.

Arborio Rice

For a creamy and velvety risotto, use arborio rice. Arborio rice is a short-grain rice that is native to Italy. It absorbs flavors and releases starch, creating a rich and satisfying dish. It is known for its high starch content, which gives risotto its signature creamy texture. When cooked, the grains of arborio rice become plump and tender, while still maintaining a slight bite in the center. This texture allows the rice to perfectly absorb the flavors of the broth or sauce it is cooked in. The starch released during cooking also helps to thicken the dish, giving it a luscious consistency. Arborio rice is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, but it truly shines in a classic risotto.

Sushi Rice

Sushi rice, also known as sticky rice, is a short-grain rice commonly used in Japanese cuisine. I love cooking with sushi rice because of its unique sticky texture and subtle flavor.

It is the perfect rice for making sushi rolls, nigiri, and even rice bowls. The grains of sushi rice stick together when cooked, allowing you to easily shape it into various forms. The stickiness also helps to hold the ingredients together, making each bite of sushi a delightful experience.

Sushi rice is also versatile and can be used in other dishes like onigiri, rice balls, and even stir-fries. Its ability to absorb flavors makes it a favorite in my kitchen. I always keep a bag of sushi rice on hand for my Japanese-inspired meals.

Brown Rice

To cook brown rice, you’ll need to use a ratio of 2 cups of water to 1 cup of rice.

I prefer brown rice because it is a healthier option compared to white rice. It is a whole grain that retains its bran and germ, which are packed with nutrients and fiber.

Brown rice has a nutty flavor and a slightly chewy texture that adds a delicious element to any dish.

When cooking brown rice, I start by rinsing it in cold water to remove any excess starch. Then, I bring the water to a boil and add the rice. I cover it and simmer for about 45 minutes until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed.

The result is a hearty and nutritious grain that pairs well with many meals.

Black Rice

Black rice, also known as forbidden rice, has a deep purple color and a rich, nutty flavor that sets it apart from other varieties. Not only does it look striking on the plate, but it also has a unique taste that adds depth to any dish. It has a slightly chewy texture and a subtle sweetness that I find truly satisfying.

Plus, black rice is packed with antioxidants and nutrients like iron and fiber. It’s a great option for anyone looking to add more variety and nutrition to their meals. Whether I’m enjoying it in a stir-fry or as a side dish, black rice never fails to impress.

Wild Rice

Moving on from discussing black rice, let’s dive into the next type of rice that is perfect for making rice water: wild rice.

I have to say, wild rice is one of my personal favorites when it comes to its unique flavor and texture. It has a slightly nutty taste and a chewy texture that adds a delightful twist to any dish.

Not only does wild rice make a fantastic side dish or a base for salads, but it also works wonders in creating a nourishing rice water. Its high protein and fiber content make it an excellent choice for promoting healthy hair growth and adding shine to your locks.

Red Rice

Have you ever tried red rice? It has a rich, nutty flavor and a beautiful reddish hue that can add a pop of color to your meals.

I first discovered red rice when I was looking for healthier alternatives to white rice. I was instantly drawn to its vibrant color and unique taste.

Red rice is whole grain rice that is packed with nutrients and antioxidants. It has a slightly chewy texture and a subtle earthy flavor that pairs well with a variety of dishes.

Whether I’m making a stir-fry, a salad, or a pilaf, adding red rice not only enhances the flavor but also makes the dish visually appealing.

Trust me, once you try red rice, you’ll never go back to plain white rice again.

Forbidden Rice

After exploring the benefits of red rice, let’s dive into another fascinating type of rice called Forbidden Rice.

I’ve always been intrigued by its deep purple color and nutty flavor. This ancient grain, also known as black rice, has a rich history and is packed with nutrients.

Not only is it a great source of antioxidants, but it also contains high levels of fiber and iron. The unique color of Forbidden Rice comes from the pigments called anthocyanins, which have been linked to various health benefits.

It’s a versatile rice that can be used in both sweet and savory dishes, making it a delightful addition to any recipe.

I can’t wait to try this exotic rice and explore its distinct culinary possibilities.

Glutinous Rice

Glutinous rice, also known as sticky rice, is a popular ingredient in many Asian cuisines. I absolutely love using glutinous rice in my cooking because of its unique texture and flavor.

Unlike regular rice, glutinous rice becomes sticky and chewy when cooked, making it perfect for dishes like sushi, rice cakes, and dumplings. The stickiness of this rice also allows it to easily bind ingredients together, making it a versatile ingredient in both sweet and savory recipes.

One of my favorite ways to enjoy glutinous rice is in mango sticky rice, a popular Thai dessert. The combination of the sweet and creamy mango with the sticky rice is simply heavenly.

Glutinous rice truly adds a delightful touch to any dish it is used in.