Long Grain vs Short Grain Rice: Differences Explained
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By now we’re all familiar with the different varieties of rice. Size is the easiest way to distinguish one type of grain from another. However, size isn’t the only attribute that makes each type of rice distinct. Here’s a short explainer on the difference between short-grain rice and long-grain rice.
What Is Short-Grain Rice?
As implied in its name, short-grain rice can be easily identified by its short length, usually under 5.5 millimeters. Short-grain rice often has a creamy texture, is sticky, and is a lot chewier than long-grain when cooked. Some popular short-grain white rice varieties include glutinous rice, sushi rice, and arborio rice.
What Is Short-Grain Rice Used For?
Short-grain is typically used to cook creamy recipes like rice pudding, breakfast porridge, risotto, and sushi.
What Is Long Grain Rice?
In order to be classified as long-grain rice, the grains must be around 6.5 millimeters or longer. Compared to short-grain rice, long-grain turns dry and remains separated when cooked. These qualities make long-grain perfect for food such as stir-fries or rice pilaf. Some famous examples of long-grain rice include basmati rice, which has a distinct aroma and taste, and jasmine rice.
Why Is Long Grain Rice Healthier?
This variety of rice is viewed as the healthier one because it has a lower glycemic index (GI) and lower carbohydrate content in contrast to its shorter counterpart. If you really want to eat healthy though, brown rice, which can be typically found in a long or medium form, is what you should look into as it is one of the healthiest rice types around.
Which Is Better, Short or Long Grain Rice?
There isn’t an exact answer to which one is better as both types of grain have their distinct qualities and are used in various dishes. If you’re cooking a creamy dish or dessert to finish off your meal, go for shorter types. If you’re making a stir-fry or pilaf, go for longer types.
Final Note
Knowing the difference between long and short types lets you make your favorite recipes without a hitch. Always remember to use the right type indicated in the recipe.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is jasmine rice long or short grain?
Jasmine rice is a long-grain type of rice.
