Jasmine Rice

What Is Jasmine Rice?

Jasmine rice is a long-grain, aromatic rice (Oryza sativa) variety native to Thailand. It takes its name from the jasmine-like, faintly floral scent it gives off when cooked.

It has a softer, slightly stickier texture than basmati; it is the pilaf and side-dish rice of Far Eastern and Southeast Asian cuisines.

Nutritional Values of Jasmine Rice

White rice contains approximately 365 kcal of energy per 100 g of raw grain and is predominantly carbohydrate; its fiber content is low. Values are approximate according to the USDA white rice profile and may vary slightly by variety.

What Are the Benefits of Jasmine Rice?

As an easily digestible carbohydrate source, rice can be considered part of a balanced diet and is gluten-free. Jasmine rice stands out for its aroma and texture.

This information is general; jasmine rice is a food, not a substitute for medical treatment.

How Is Jasmine Rice Selected?

Quality jasmine rice has long, whole grains and a distinct floral scent; products with a weakened scent and broken grains have lost their freshness.

• The grains should be long, whole, and evenly sized
• It should give off a light floral scent when the package is opened
• Broken grain ratio should be low, and the package should be sealed and dry

How Is Jasmine Rice Stored?

Jasmine rice can be stored for 1–2 years in a dry, sealed container in a cool place; keeping it in an airtight jar is recommended to preserve its scent.

Using Jasmine Rice in the Kitchen

Jasmine rice is used as plain pilaf alongside Far Eastern dishes, as well as fried rice and as a side dish for curry dishes.

How Is Jasmine Rice Cooked?

The rice is washed a few times and drained; it is cooked with about 1.25–1.5 times its volume in water, over low heat with the lid on, until the liquid is absorbed, then rested. Less water than basmati is used for its slightly sticky texture.

What Is the Difference Between Jasmine and Basmati?

Jasmine is softer, slightly sticky, and floral-scented; basmati elongates when cooked and is drier and fluffier. Both are long-grain, aromatic varieties.

What Recipes Is Jasmine Rice Used In?

Alongside Thai and Chinese dishes, plain jasmine pilaf, fried rice, curry chicken side dish, and coconut-milk rice are its best-known uses.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is jasmine rice fragrant?

The variety's natural aroma compounds (especially 2-acetyl-1-pyrroline) are released when cooked and give off a jasmine-like, mildly floral scent.

Should jasmine rice be washed?

Yes; washing it a few times removes excess surface starch and prevents the pilaf from becoming too sticky, though excessive washing can slightly reduce its aroma.

What dishes does jasmine rice go with?

It pairs especially well with the curry, saucy, and vegetable dishes of Thai and Chinese cuisine; its light scent complements the spices in these dishes.

Is jasmine rice gluten-free?

Yes; like all rice, jasmine rice is naturally gluten-free.

How is jasmine rice stored?

Storing it in a sealed, airtight jar in a cool, dry place is recommended to preserve its scent.