Indian Basmati Rice is famous the world over for its long, slender-grained aromatic rice. The term, ‘Basmati’ is derived from the Sanskrit word ‘basmati, which literally means ‘fragrant. For several centuries this variety is cultivated in the Indian subcontinent and is an integral part of various cuisines of the Indian subcontinent. It is widely used in Central Asian, Persian, Arab, and other Middle Eastern cuisines as well. Sulson Overseas is a leading Basmati Rice supplier of India with the presence of their products in more than 50 countries. India has been exporting 44 lakh tonnes of Basmati annually. Punjab and Haryana states are the major Basmati growers and exporters and both the states are the largest Indian Basmati Rice supplier in the world, around 80 percent of the total exports. Punjab alone grows over 20 lakh tonnes of Basmati every year out of which a major portion is exported. EU, USA, Middle East, Russia, Ukraine, Turkey, Azerbaijan, Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) countries are the major importers.
Interesting facts about Basmati Rice:
- A cocktail of 100 different compounds like hydrocarbons, alcohols, aldehydes and esters gives aroma to Basmati Rice.
- Basmati rice has a lower glycemic index than any other rice. This makes it a healthy food option for people with diabetes as it does not increase the blood sugar.
- The highly Aromatic Basmati Rice grows only in the Northern Indian states of Punjab, Delhi, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, Uttarakhand, and parts of western Uttar Pradesh and J&K.
- Basmati rice prevents the deposition of cholesterol inside arteries and reduces the chances of heart and vascular disease.
- Basmati rice is rich in vitamin B and antioxidant elements. It contains magnesium, which contributes to the support functions of the nervous system.