Basmati

The California- and Texas-grown basmatis are good but do not expand as much in length as Indian basmatis when cooked and lack the lovely aromatic smell of the original. They are sold in natural foods stores and some supermarkets. The best basmati from South Asia is often labeled “Dehra Dun, ” since that is reputedly the best growing region. Other basmatis, from West Bengal, are labeled “Patna.” Basmatis from India and Pakistan can be found in specialty shops and South Asian groceries. Basmati rice is available white (milled) or brown (unmilled); brown basmati is usually American-grown.