Brown rice has become a staple for health-conscious eaters, valued for its high nutritional content and rich, nutty flavor. But with so many varieties available, it can be challenging to determine which is the best tasting brown rice to pick for your meal.
We’ll explore different brown rice varieties and help you discover which one is the best for you!
Why Is Brown Rice Different?
Unlike white rice, brown rice retains its natural bran layer during the milling process, which gives it the distinct texture and taste of brown rice.
This bran layer is packed with nutrients, making it a healthier option compared to white rice.
Brown Rice Milling Process
One thing that brown rice varieties have in common is how the rice is milled. There are three key steps in the milling process: cleaning, husking, and separation.
Learn more about these three steps in our blog, “From Farm to Table - Identifying the Healthiest Brown Rice.”
These three steps conclude the milling process for brown rice but white rice will continue on to polisher and whitener stages that grind the bran layer off, taking away the majority of rice nutrients.
Exploring Brown Rice Varieties
There are many varieties of brown rice to choose from, each offering unique characteristics.
Your preference for the best tasting brown rice may vary based on your personal taste and the dish you’re preparing.
Check out these different brown rice varieties and choose which one will be the best tasting brown rice for your dish!
Basmati Brown Rice
Basmati brown rice is a long-grain variety that has a lighter nuttier flavor than other brown rice varieties, and the brown rice texture is firmer when cooked.
It’s a staple in Indian and Middle Eastern cuisine, appreciated for its ability to keep its shape and not get mushy when paired with sauce dishes.
Jasmine Brown Rice
Jasmine brown rice is another long-grain variety, celebrated for its sweeter aroma, nutty flavor, and slightly sticky brown rice texture.
Commonly used in Southeast Asian cuisine, this rice is versatile and can complement a wide range of flavors, making it one of the best tasting brown rice for a variety of meals.
Short Grain Brown Rice
Short grain brown rice is characterized by its short, plump grains and chewy texture.
This variety is often used in sushi and other Asian dishes, where its ability to hold together well is highly valued.
The firm brown rice texture and rich flavor of short grain brown rice make it a favorite for those who enjoy a heartier grain.
Red and Black Rice Varieties
Though not traditional brown rice, red and black rice varieties are often grouped with brown rice due to their similar milling process.
These varieties offer unique tastes and higher nutritional value, adding a colorful and nutritious twist to meals.
Their rich flavors and antioxidant properties make them an intriguing option for those looking to expand beyond brown rice.
Chico Rice Brown Japonica Rice
Chico Rice’s Brown Japonica rice is one of the best tasting brown rice because of its unique small batch milling process.
Instead of milling the rice and then storing it for extended periods, Chico Rice mills the rice in small batches, ensuring it’s always as fresh as possible when it reaches customers.
This small batch milling approach contributes significantly to the texture and delicious taste of brown rice.
By milling, packaging, and delivering the rice promptly, the fresh, nutty taste of brown rice that the customers love is preserved, making Chico Rice a top choice for the best tasting brown rice.
Cooking Tips for Brown Rice
To fully enjoy the best tasting brown rice, it’s essential to cook it properly. Here are some helpful tips:
Rinse the Rice: Rinse brown rice under cold water to remove excess starch and prevent it from becoming too sticky.
Use the Right Water Ratio: Generally, use a 2:1 water-to-rice ratio. Adjust based on the specific variety.
Let it Rest: After cooking, let the rice sit covered for 5-10 minutes to allow the grains to firm up.
Experiment with Seasoning: Enhance the flavor with spices, herbs, or use broth instead of rice when cooking.
Brown Rice Recipe Suggestions
Here are a few recipes that pair well with the best tasting brown rice:
Brown Rice Sushi
Using brown rice instead of the traditional white rice adds a richer, nuttier flavor to the rolls while making it healthier.
The natural bran layer in brown rice provides additional fiber, making this sushi option not only delicious but also more filling.
Whether you’re rolling up your favorite veggies, fish, or tofu, brown rice sushi is a great way to enjoy a nutritious meal while still enjoying your favorite sushi recipe.
Brown Rice Onigiri
These delicious brown rice onigiri are a great nutritious meal or snack to make with the best tasting brown rice of your choice.
The chewy texture and nutty flavor of brown rice give these onigiri an added depth that pairs well with a variety of fillings.
Easy to prepare and perfect for on-the-go eating, these rice balls offer a satisfying and healthy way to enjoy brown rice in a fun, portable form.
Try Your Favorite Brown Rice
Brown rice offers a world of flavor and nutrition, with each variety bringing something unique to the table.
From the hearty and bold taste of Brown Japonica Rice to the aromatic qualities of Basmati and Jasmine Brown Rice, there’s a type of brown rice to suit every palate.
Exploring these different varieties can enhance your culinary experiences and introduce you to new, delicious ways to enjoy this wholesome grain.
No matter which variety you choose, the key to enjoying the best tasting brown rice lies in selecting high-quality, fresh grains and preparing them with care.
At Chico Rice, our commitment to small-batch milling ensures that each grain retains its peak freshness and flavor, allowing you to savor the full potential of brown rice in your meals.
So, whether you’re a seasoned brown rice enthusiast or new to the grain, there’s always something new to discover and enjoy in the world of brown rice.
