For those who are new to cooking, figuring out the different types of rice grains can be overwhelming. Basmati, jasmine rice, broken rice, brown rice, white rice- such is the variety of rice. Two of the most talked-about varieties are Basmati rice and Brown rice. So what are these two rice varieties and what are their special features? We take a look at Basmati rice vs Brown rice in this article…
What is Basmati Rice?
Brown rice is essentially white rice with the brown husk still intact. This means more nutrients as compared to the white rice.
In an increasingly health-conscious world, brown rice has become synonymous with a high-carb, nutritious diet. The many health benefits of brown rice have come to the fore as a healthier alternative to traditional rice.
Nutrition
Brown rice and Basmati rice are both good for health, with important nutrients that are vital for a healthy diet. Let’s compare one cup of brown rice and one cup of basmati rice for the nutrients they offer.
| Nutrients | Basmati Rice | Brown Rice |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 205 | 218 |
| Total Fat | 0.4 g | 1.6 g |
| Sodium | 1.6 mg | 2 mg |
| Potassium | 55 mg | 154 mg |
| Total carbs | 45 g | 46 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.6 g | 3.6 g |
| Protein | 4.3 g | 4.6 g |
| Calcium | 19.5 mg | 19.5 mg |
| Iron | 1.9 mg | 0.8 mg |
| Magnesium | 72 mg | 83.9 mg |
| Phosphorus | 150 mg | 162 mg |
| Copper | 0.2 mg | 0.2 mg |
| Manganese | 1.9 mg | 1.8 mg |
| Selenium | 11.8 mcg | 19.1 mcg |
| Thiamin | 0.26 mg | 0.2 mg |
| Niacin | 3.2 mg | 3.0 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.4 mg | 0.3 mg |
As we can see from the above comparison, brown rice contains more potassium and fiber. As compared to Basmati Rice, brown rice is more filling- which means less cravings and less constipation. Basmati, on the other hand, is leaner and is a better source of iron.
Taste and Flavor
Both Basmati and Brown rice are popular varieties of rice sold in over a hundred countries throughout the world.
Basmati has a very well-known and distinct flavor. Its aroma is known throughout the world. It is used as a premium grain in many countries. It is used for African delicacies such as Jollof, Asian dishes such as Biryanis, and for a lot of other rice dishes.
Brown rice has a nutty, slightly bread-like flavor that slightly resembles multigrain bread. Most of the brown rice’s flavor is dependent on the taste of the grain, with texture added on from the husk.
Both varieties of rice, along with others such as jasmine rice, broken rice, and white rice have their own characteristics. As we can see above, both brown rice and basmati have their own nutritional values and taste, with each one of them having something to offer to their suitors
