Long Grain Rice

What is long grain rice?

Long grain rice is a variety of rice characterized by its long and slender grain, which remains separate after cooking, unlike other varieties that tend to stick together.

Its origin can be traced back to Asia, where various rice varieties have been cultivated for thousands of years. Although rice is native to the Indus River basin, the long grain rice variety has been developed in different regions of the world over the centuries.

In Spain, rice was introduced by the Muslims during the Middle Ages, who brought advanced cultivation and rice processing techniques. Long grain rice began to be used in Spanish cuisine, becoming one of the essential ingredients for dishes like paella.

Over the centuries, long grain rice has evolved and adapted to different regions of Spain, increasingly valued for its versatility and ease of cooking.

Take a look at all these high-quality long grain rices.

Why choose long grain rice?

1. Super versatile in the kitchen. This rice adapts to a wide variety of preparations, from cold dishes like rice salads to hot dishes like paellas, soupy rice dishes, and soups. Thanks to its loose texture, it is ideal for accompanying meats, fish, and vegetables, and does not become a sticky mass when mixed with other ingredients.
2. Perfect texture. Long grain rice is known for its light and fluffy texture. When cooked correctly, each grain remains separate and does not clump together. This is crucial in recipes like paella, where each grain must be well separated to achieve a perfect result.
3. Absorbs flavors. Another property of long grain rice is its ability to absorb broths, sauces, and spices without losing its shape. This characteristic makes it an ideal rice for dishes like soupy rice dishes or stews, where the rice needs to absorb all the flavors of the liquids it's cooked in.
4. Easy to cook. Although each type of rice has its own trick for cooking it perfectly, long grain rice is relatively easy to prepare. Its cooking is quick, and generally, it is enough to follow the right proportions of water and rice (usually 2 parts water to 1 part rice).

Health benefits of long grain rice

Long grain rice is not usually the first food we think of when talking about health, but it has several benefits that we want to show you:

• Source of energy. Long grain rice is a good source of carbohydrates, which are essential for maintaining high energy levels throughout the day.
• Low in fat. Long grain rice is naturally low in fats, making it a light food suitable for those watching their calorie intake.
• Easy digestion. Long grain rice is easy to digest and, therefore, is a great option for people with digestive issues or on a recovery diet. Additionally, it has a low glycemic index, which helps maintain stable blood sugar levels.
• Gluten-free. Like all types of rice, long grain rice is naturally gluten-free.

How to cook long grain rice

When cooking long grain rice, it is important to follow the correct ratio of water to rice. Generally, the ratio is 2 parts water to 1 part rice.

All you have to do is bring the water to a boil, add the rice, reduce the heat, and let it cook for about 10-15 minutes, depending on the quantity.

It is important not to stir it while cooking, as this can make the rice sticky.

Once cooked, let it rest for a few minutes to allow the grains to settle.

What recipes can you use long grain rice in?

• Paella. Although bomba rice is traditionally associated with paella, long grain rice is also a good option for this dish. Being able to absorb the broth without becoming sticky, it can be used to make a lighter and looser paella.