The Ultimate Guide to Rice: History, Types, and Cultivation Process

In India rice connects deeply with the emotions of Indian people, representing not just a food source but a symbol of life, prosperity, and cultural identity, rice is considered the staple food in most countries in the world specially Basmati rice, in particular, is used for cooking celebratory dishes during festivals like Diwali and Eid in India, adding a special essence to these occasions.

From ancient civilizations to modern times, rice has been a vital part of Indian life, if we talk about the back times, during the Indus Valley civilization, which flourished around 2500 BC we will get to know that there are some pieces of evidence found that clearly indicate that the people of this civilization practiced sustainable rice farming and multi-cropping strategies, growing rice alongside other crops like millets and beans during the summer season.

Exploring and understanding the grain rice

Rice is considered one of the oldest cereal grains in the world and is known as Oryza sativa in scientific language, it also serves as the staple food for more than 50% of the global population. It was first addressed as a crop for cultivation by China and India in  2500 BC.

The rice plant is an annual grass that can grow up to 1.2 meters (4 feet) tall, though it can reach lengths of up to 5 meters (16 feet) in deep water. It has long, slender leaves that arise from jointed stems called nodes. A panicle that contains 350 spikelets produces rice flower Each spikelet bears male and female flower parts, and upon fertilization, the ovule develops into the edible grain.

Rice is primarily composed of carbohydrates (about 29% when cooked), providing a significant energy source. It contains small amounts of protein (approximately 2%) and is low in fat. In India, rice is cultivated in almost every state but the top 5 rice-producing states in India are West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh.

Also Read: Types of Millets in India

Different types of rice

With over 40,000 types of rice available across a vast range of shapes, sizes, and coloring,  it’s no wonder rice is a kitchen staple. Rice is categorized into three different characteristics:

• Short grain rice
• Medium grain rice
• Long grain rice

Short grain rice

This rice looks almost round and becomes soft along with a sticky texture when cooked due to it being very starchy. The stickiness of the rice makes it the perfect choice for risotto, paella, and sushi recipes. There are 4 main-styled short grains.

1. Arborio rice

This rice grain is famous for its unique creamy texture and ability to absorb flavors it is native to Italy and used for mainly Italian cuisine, especially for risotto. It is named after the town of Arborio in the Piedmont region of Italy, where it is traditionally cultivated.

2. Bomba rice

You can also name it Valencia rice which is a premium short-grain rice variety primarily used in traditional Spanish dishes, especially paella. They are short and round, typically measuring about 5 mm in length and 2.1 mm in width. Due to its pearly appearance that distinguishes them from other rice varieties.

3. Glutinous (sticky) rice

Glutinous rice is famous for the name sweet rice or sticky rice which is characterized by its high amylopectin and low amylose content. Grains are typically short, round, and opaque, appearing less transparent than other rice types before cooking. This texture makes it a popular choice in various Asian cuisines. Glutinous rice must be steamed rather than boiled, otherwise it will fall apart and form clumps that wouldn’t be suitable for dishing.

4. Sushi rice

Sushi rice has a high amylopectin content and low amylose content which is sticky and chewy, making it ideal for shaping into sushi rolls or nigiri. It also known as shari or sumeshi, is a specific type of short-grain rice that is essential for making sushi. Its unique characteristics of being sticky, subtle sweet, and ability to absorb flavors—make it distinct from other types of rice. Understanding how to select and prepare sushi rice is crucial for anyone looking to create authentic sushi at home.

Medium grain rice

As per its name, it can be easily distinguished with short grain as they are twice longer than it. It is a type of rice that falls between long-grain and short-grain varieties in terms of size, texture, and culinary applications. medium-grain rice develops a tender, slightly chewy texture. It turns out to be moist and can be somewhat sticky, making it ideal for dishes that require the grains to hold together without clumping excessively. There are two different varieties: 

1. Black rice

This rice is also known as  "forbidden rice" or "purple rice," which is known for its deep black color and numerous health benefits. This happens due to the presence of anthocyanins, which are powerful antioxidants, and when cooked, they often turn a deep purple color. It also has a mild, nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste of dishes.

2. Matta rice

This rice is known as palakkadan rice, Kerala rice which Retains its bran, giving it a reddish-brown color. Bio Basics' Matta Rice is red because it retains 30% of bran to keep the fiber and mineral content high along with it, it has a unique, earth,y and nutty flavor and a firm, slightly chewy texture.

Long grain rice

These rice are also known for their slender kernels, which are typically three to five times longer than they are wide type of rice has a high amylose content, which prevents the grains from sticking together during cooking, ensuring they remain separate and fluffy. Two main varieties of this rice are 

1. Basmati rice

This variety of rice is native to India, where more than 70 percent of the world’s basmati is produced. These are long and slender, typically measuring between 6.61 to 9 mm in length. When cooked, they can elongate to nearly double their original size without becoming sticky. It is famous for the aroma that arises from a chemical compound called 2-acetyl-1-pyrroline, which is present in significantly higher concentrations compared to non-basmati varieties.

2. Jasmine rice

this variety is primarily grown in Thailand which is why it is also known as Thai fragrant rice but is also cultivated in other Southeast Asian countries. This long-grain rice variety is renowned for its aromatic qualities and slightly sticky texture when cooked. Jasmine rice's aroma makes it distinctive from others that have a floral scent reminiscent of pandan leaves or buttered popcorn.

Also Read: Types of Millets in India

Rice cultivation process step by step

For high yield and successful rice cultivation, you should understand the following steps: 

1. Selecting the right painting material

Choose high-quality seeds by ensuring that seeds are clean and show no signs of aging.

2. Land Preparation for Paddy Farming

This process involves leveling, puddling bund construction, and making channels, to ensure uniform water distribution, create a muddy layer that helps retain moisture and nutrients, prevent water loss, and control irrigation and water distribution to different parts of the field respectively.

3. Transplanting

Flood the field with water (5-10 cm deep) before transplanting to ensure proper moisture levels. It is important to ensure even spacing between seedlings during transplantation to allow for optimal growth. After 25-55 days in the nursery, shift m to the main field.

4. Water management

Maintain standing water in the fields during critical growth stages (panicle initiation, flowering, and grain filling) to support healthy plant development. Drain the water before harvesting to allow the soil to dry out.

5. Application of fertilizers and pesticides

Apply fertilizers based on soil tests and crop requirements at different growth stages to promote healthy growth and maximize yield. Also, monitor the rice crops for removing weeds and pests by using pesticides and weedicides.

5. Harvesting

Rice crops get mature, typically 3-6 months after planting, which is a sign of harvesting. Use manual methods (sickles) or mechanical harvesters depending on farm size and resources.