Choosing the best brown rice can depend on factors such as taste, texture, nutritional content, and personal preference.
Here are some of the top-rated and widely recommended brown rice brands and types:
Top Brown Rice Brands
1. Lundberg Family Farms
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- Varieties: Organic Short Grain Brown Rice, Organic Long Grain Brown Rice, Organic Basmati Brown Rice
- Features: Known for their high quality and organic farming practices, Lundberg Family Farms offers a wide variety of brown rice options that are non-GMO and eco-friendly.
2. Nishiki
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- Varieties: Premium Brown Rice
- Features: Popular for its sticky texture, Nishiki brown rice is often used in Japanese cuisine and is a favorite for sushi and rice bowls.
3. Tamanishiki
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- Varieties: Super Premium Brown Rice
- Features: This California-grown rice is known for its premium quality and is a great choice for those looking for a high-end option.
4. Lotus Foods
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- Varieties: Organic Brown Jasmine Rice, Organic Brown Basmati Rice
- Features: Lotus Foods is known for their sustainable farming practices and offers unique varieties like Heirloom Forbidden Black Rice and Madagascar Pink Rice.
5. Planet Rice
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- Varieties: Sprouted Brown Rice
- Features: Sprouted brown rice is easier to digest and has enhanced nutritional benefits. Planet Rice is a leading brand in this category.
Types of Brown Rice
- Short Grain Brown Rice
- Texture: Sticky and chewy
- Best For: Sushi, rice balls, and dishes requiring a stickier texture
- Medium Grain Brown Rice
- Texture: Tender with a slight chew
- Best For: Risottos, pilafs, and everyday meals
- Long Grain Brown Rice
- Texture: Light and fluffy
- Best For: Salads, pilafs, and as a side dish
- Basmati Brown Rice
- Texture: Long, aromatic grains
- Best For: Indian cuisine, biryanis, and pilafs
- Jasmine Brown Rice
- Texture: Fragrant, slightly sticky
- Best For: Southeast Asian dishes, stir-fries, and curries
Factors to Consider
- Organic: Opt for organic brown rice to avoid pesticides and GMOs.
- Texture: Choose the type of brown rice that suits your cooking needs and preferences.
- Flavor: Different varieties have unique flavors. Basmati and Jasmine, for example, have distinct aromatic properties.
- Cooking Time: Some types, like sprouted brown rice, cook faster and are easier to digest.
Recommendations
- For general use, Lundberg Organic Long Grain Brown Rice is a versatile and high-quality option.
- If you enjoy aromatic rice, try Lotus Foods Organic Brown Jasmine Rice or Organic Brown Basmati Rice.
- For a premium choice with a unique texture, Tamanishiki Super Premium Brown Rice is excellent.
- For health benefits, Planet Rice Sprouted Brown Rice is a great option due to its enhanced nutritional profile and ease of digestion.