Jasmine vs Basmati Rice: Difference and Comparison

Many of us feel a little less satiated if we do not have rice on our plate to mix and relish with an Indian curry. Despite our love for rice, not all of us are aware of its various types.

Key Takeaways

  1. Jasmine rice originates from Thailand and has a distinct floral aroma, sticky texture, and slightly sweet taste.
  2. Basmati rice comes from India and Pakistan, featuring a nutty flavor, slender grains, and a non-sticky texture.
  3. Both rice types are popular in Asian cuisine but differ in flavor, aroma, and texture.

Jasmine vs Basmati Rice

Jasmine rice is a long-grain rice with an aromatic jasmine fragrance produced in Thailand. After it is cooked, the rice turns sticky and clumpy, which makes it easy to eat with chopsticks. The flavour is sweet and nutty. Basmati rice is a long, slender grain that is produced in India and Pakistan. It becomes dry and fluffy after it is cooked. This variant of rice is aromatic with a chewy texture.

Jasmine vs Basmati Rice

However, that is not the only country where it is consumed. In addition, it is also cultivated and consumed in Taiwan, Cambodia, and Vietnam.

Its sharp and pointy edges, slender look, and length make it the best rice to prepare soulful plates of Biriyani and pulao.

Comparison Table

Parameters of ComparisonJasmine RiceBasmati Rice
OriginRecords suggest that it was first cultivated in ThailandIt was first cultivated in India and Pakistan
AppearanceIt is curved at both the ends and translucentIt is sharp and pointy at the edges, with a long and slender-look
TextureAfter being cooked, it is clumpy and sticky, thereby making it quite easy to be eaten with chopsticks.It is dry after being cooked, and each grain is distinct yet fluffy
FlavorIt is relatively a little sweeter than other kinds of rice and has a hint of nuttiness.The flavor is distinct, and so is the aroma. Its name translates to “fragrant” in Hindi.
Iron ContentWhen in the form of white rice, it has no iron content, but brown rice has about 2% of iron.While the white rice contains about 2%, the brown rice contains around 4% of iron.

What is Jasmine Rice?

This is a kind of rice that is immensely popular in South-East Asia. Records dictate that its origin can be traced back to Thailand.

Also Read:  Raisins vs Black Raisins: Difference and Comparison

If this element is found in a type of rice in large amounts, then the grains cannot retain their distinct structure and become moist and sticky.

Do not be fooled by its name. No, it does not smell like jasmine before or after being cooked.

It is available in the form of both white rice and brown rice. It also has several health benefits, but for someone who is keeping a check on calorie intake, brown Jasmine rice will always prove to be much more beneficial.

jasmine rice

What is Basmati Rice?

If you fancy a plate of Biriyani, you have already been introduced to this rice. This is avidly used to prepare dishes in India and Pakistan.

It is dry after being cooked, and each grain is distinct yet fluffy.

The moment the rice is almost cooked, you can be assured that the aroma will travel from your kitchen to your neighbour’s house and trouble them with the inviting fragrance of your dish.

Interestingly, white Basmati rice is not rich in fibre content at all, but its brown version will make up for the loss.

basmati rice

Main Differences Between Jasmine and Basmati Rice

  1. On the other hand, Basmati rice has a flavorful, spiced taste with a high aromatic quotient. 
  2. While the aromatic value of Jasmine rice depreciates with time, Basmati rice becomes better with time and sees a spike in its price as well.
Difference Between Jasmine and Basmati Rice
References
  1. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0308814605002621
  2. https://ifst.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1046/j.1365-2621.2002.00541.x

Last Updated : 06 September, 2023

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11 thoughts on “Jasmine vs Basmati Rice: Difference and Comparison”

  1. This article seems overly focused on the technical aspects of the rice varieties, and the information about their culinary uses could be more comprehensive.

    Reply
  2. This article provides valuable information about two types of rice that are commonly consumed, ultimately helping to expand the reader’s knowledge on the topic.

    Reply
    • I completely agree with you. The detailed information about the origin, appearance, texture, and flavor of Jasmine and Basmati rice is fascinating.

      Reply
  3. The scientific references provided in the article add credibility to the information presented, making it a reliable source of knowledge.

    Reply
  4. The article showcases the distinct qualities of Jasmine and Basmati rice in a compelling manner, making it a captivating educational piece.

    Reply
    • I appreciate the insightful analysis of the culinary significance and nutritional value of Jasmine and Basmati rice, making it a valuable educational resource.

      Reply
    • I couldn’t agree more! The inclusion of scientific research references further enhances the depth of this informative article.

      Reply
  5. The health benefits and culinary applications of both rice types are well-articulated in this article, making it an enriching read for food enthusiasts.

    Reply
  6. I find it amusing that Jasmine rice doesn’t actually smell like jasmine, despite its name. It’s a whimsical aspect of this aromatic rice variety.

    Reply
  7. The comparison table is a great addition to this article, allowing readers to quickly understand the key differences between Jasmine and Basmati rice.

    Reply
  8. The detailed descriptions of the characteristics and cultural significance of Jasmine and Basmati rice are both enlightening and engaging.

    Reply

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