Lesser-known Facts About Basmati Rice You Probably Didn’t Know
Did you know the word ‘Basmati’ originates from Sanskrit, literally translating to ‘fragrant’?
You have probably heard about this aromatic rice known as Basmati. People around the world are going crazy for Basmati’s fragrance, memorizing taste and delicate flavor. This rice grain is grown in the Himalayan foothills of the Indian subcontinent. The specialty of Basmati lies in its elongated grain size — it is twice the size of the normal grain size of rice. Therefore, this unique and superior variety of rice gives a fluffy and soft texture after it is cooked. Below are some lesser-known facts about Basmati rice you probably didn’t know.Basmati is a healthier alternative to conventional rice.
Basmati rice is the ideal choice of rice for people who are health conscious. The 1401 basmati is chock full of minerals and micronutrients — it is more nutritious with lower calories — making it a healthy choice. It is essential to note that researchers have suggested that Basmati rice, as opposed to other varieties of rice, contains the least amount of arsenic
Promotes weight loss
If you want to lose weight, allow Basmati to rescue you. The two primary factors that promote weight loss are the high amylose content and low GI (glycemic index) of basmati. A glycemic index of 50 to 58 provides energy to the body. On the other hand, amylose takes time to digest, keeping you full for long.
Basmati is allergy and diabetes-friendly
Owing to Basmati’s low GI, this variety of rice promotes better regulation of blood sugar, making it a good option for diabetic people. However, it is essential to consult a dietician before incorporating Basmati rice into your diet. Similarly, people who are allergic to gluten or are lactose intolerant, can also switch to products made of Basmati rice like milk, flour, and more.
Different varieties of Basmati.
Typically, the varieties of basmati can further be categorized as brown and white rice. Brown Basmati refers to the unmilled rice that contains husk. While white Basmati is fluffier and softer, the brown tastes nuttier and exudes intense flavors. In addition, a publication by the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority reported that there are 29 varieties of Indian Basmati including Pusa Basmati, Karnal Local Basmati, Dehraduni Basmati, and many more.
In India, the state of Haryana is the largest producer of Basmati rice, cultivating over 60 percent of the aggregate production.
