Can you use jasmine rice for regular rice?

Table of Contents

What is Jasmine Rice?

Jasmine rice is a long grain variety of rice that originates from Thailand. It gets its name from the jasmine flower because of its pleasant floral aroma. Jasmine rice is a food staple in many Southeast Asian cuisines. Compared to other types of rice, jasmine rice has a soft, sticky texture when cooked and a unique fragrance similar to pandan leaves. The grains are long and slender, averaging about 5-6 millimeters in length when uncooked. Due to its unique properties, jasmine rice is ideal for various Asian dishes like curries and stir fries. However, it is also becoming increasingly popular in other parts of the world as well.

Some key features of jasmine rice include:

Pleasant floral aroma
Soft, sticky texture when cooked
Slender, long grains averaging 5-6 mm

Originates from Thailand
Used in many Southeast Asian dishes
Growing global popularity

Compared to other long grain rices like basmati, jasmine rice tends to be slightly stickier when cooked. The grains have a smooth, glossy appearance and cling together easily. This makes it well suited for dishes that benefit from a cohesive texture.

What is Regular Rice?

Regular rice refers to any non-aromatic, long grain white rice that does not have major textural or flavor differences from the common types of rice consumed regularly. There are many different varieties that can be considered regular rice, but some examples include:

Long grain white rice

Parboiled rice
Converted or instant rice
Japanese short grain rice

Medium grain rice

Compared to specialty rices like jasmine or basmati, regular rice tends to have more neutral aroma and flavor. The grains are typically less cohesive when cooked. Regular long grain rice also remains fluffy instead of sticky.

Some key features of regular rice varieties:

Neutral aroma and flavor
Grains do not cohere as much after cooking
Fluffy, drier texture compared to sticky rice

Lacks major fragrance or textural differences from common rice
Many non-aromatic varieties including long, medium, short grain

Regular rice makes up the bulk of rice consumption worldwide. It can be found in a wide range of cuisines from Asian to Italian dishes. The neutral taste and fluffy texture of regular rice allows it to be a versatile side dish or base for other ingredients.

Differences Between Jasmine Rice and Regular Rice

While both can be classified generally as types of long grain rice, jasmine and regular rice have several key differences:

Property	Jasmine Rice	Regular Long Grain Rice
Aroma	Pleasant floral fragrance	Neutral, non-aromatic
Flavor	Sweet, subtle jasmine taste	Mild, plain flavor
Texture	Soft, sticky when cooked	Fluffy, grains separate easily
Grain Length	Slender, averages 5-6 mm	Typically 6-7 mm
Region	Southeast Asia	Grown globally
Dishes Used In	Curries, stir fries, coconut milk dishes	Versatile side dish, pilafs, fried rice

As shown, jasmine rice is known for its distinct aroma, subtle floral flavor, and sticky texture when cooked. These properties make it ideal for absorbing spices, seasonings, and sauces in Southeast Asian cuisines. Regular long grain rice has a more neutral profile and fluffy texture suited for pilafs, fried rice, and as a simple side.

Can You Use Jasmine Rice in Place of Regular Rice?

Jasmine rice can generally be used in place of regular long grain white rice in most recipes. However, there are some important considerations:

Flavor and aroma – The floral fragrance and flavor of jasmine rice will come through in the dish. This may enhance some recipes but overpower delicate flavors.
Texture – The sticky texture of cooked jasmine rice may give a different mouthfeel compared to fluffy regular rice grains.
Proportions – Jasmine rice expands more than regular rice when cooking. Use about 10% less jasmine rice by volume compared to regular long grain rice called for in a recipe.

Cooking time – Jasmine rice takes slightly less time to cook and absorbs water faster. Reduce cooking time by 2-3 minutes compared to regular rice.
Rinsing – Rinsing jasmine rice washes away some of the excess starch for a fluffier texture. Rinsing regular rice is optional.

Here are some recipe types where using jasmine rice instead of regular rice works well:

Asian dishes – Jasmine rice’s flavor complements stir fries, curries, noodle dishes, etc.
Rice bowls and salads – Sticky texture makes it easy to eat with chopsticks or mix with other ingredients.
Rice pudding and porridge – Aromatic jasmine rice gives a pleasant flavor.

Stews and soups – Jasmine rice can soak up sauces well.

However, jasmine rice may not be ideal for these recipes calling for regular rice:

Delicate seasoned rice dishes – Jasmine rice flavor may compete with other seasonings.

Fried rice – Jasmine rice gets sticky when fried instead of separating into grains.
Risotto – Requires very starchy varieties like Arborio rice to achieve the right creaminess.
Pilafs – Jasmine rice’s texture is too sticky for pilafs.

So in summary, jasmine rice can work as a substitute for regular long grain rice in many recipes. But it is best suited for dishes that complement its aromatic, sticky properties. Adjusting cooking times and proportions can help adapt it for regular rice recipes. Consider the flavor profile and texture when deciding whether to use jasmine or regular rice.

Tips for Cooking Jasmine Rice

Follow these tips for cooking fluffy, fragrant jasmine rice perfectly every time:

Use a ratio of 1 cup jasmine rice to 1 1/4 cups water. Rinse the rice first in cold water before cooking.

For extra fluffy rice, soak rinsed jasmine rice for 30 minutes before cooking.
Bring the rice and water to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover and simmer for 15-18 minutes.
After cooking, let the rice rest, covered, for 10-15 minutes off heat to absorb excess moisture.

For extra fragrant rice, add a few fresh or dried jasmine flowers to the cooking water.
To retain the most flavor, serve jasmine rice immediately after cooking. Refrigerate for storage.
Add a little coconut milk or coconut oil to jasmine rice for a Thai-inspired touch.

A rice cooker also makes perfectly cooked jasmine rice easy. Use the standard white rice setting with equal parts jasmine rice and water. The machine takes care of bringing it to a boil and simmering hands-free.

Whichever method you use, be sure not to stir jasmine rice too much during or after cooking. The delicate grains can easily break apart, losing their fluffy, separated texture.

How to Store Cooked Jasmine Rice

Cooked jasmine rice should be eaten immediately for the best taste and texture. But leftovers can be kept for several days by proper storage:

Allow the cooked rice to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container.
Refrigerate jasmine rice within 1 hour of cooking. Keep for 3-5 days in the fridge.
To freeze jasmine rice, portion into freezer bags or airtight containers. Freeze for 2-3 months.

Reheat leftover jasmine rice in the microwave with a splash of water to restore moisture and prevent sticking.
Fried rice is a tasty way to use up refrigerated jasmine rice. Stir fry with eggs, vegetables and soy sauce.

Improperly stored jasmine rice can dry out, lose its signature soft texture, and spoil more quickly. Storage containers or bags for cooked rice should be completely sealed to prevent air exposure and retain moisture. Avoid refrigerating for more than 5 days.

Common Jasmine Rice Dishes

Here are some popular savory dishes and desserts from around the world that feature jasmine rice:

Savory Jasmine Rice Dishes

Thai green/red/yellow curry – Fragrant jasmine rice balances the rich coconut sauce.
Pad thai – The rice noodles’ starch mimics sticky jasmine rice texture.

Pineapple fried rice – Jasmine rice sweetness complements charred pineapple.
Coconut rice – Coconut milk adds richness to aromatic Thai-style rice.
Jasmine rice salad – Chilled, cooked rice tossed with vegetables, herbs, protein.

Jambalaya – Jasmine rice soaks up the Creole sauce flavors.

Jasmine Rice Desserts

Thai sticky rice with mango – Sweetened jasmine rice with fresh ripe mango.
Rice pudding – Creamy pudding made from cooked jasmine rice, milk, sugar.

Tapioca pearls with jasmine coconut milk – Chewy tapioca and coconut jasmine rice combo.
Mango sticky rice cake – Jasmine rice plus mango puree layered in a sweet cake.
Coconut jasmine rice cake – Steamed jasmine rice cake made with coconut milk.

The pleasant aroma and subtle sweet taste of jasmine rice make it perfect for desserts. It can also be used to make gluten free cakes or rice flour.

Nutrition Facts of Jasmine Rice

Here is how the nutrients of cooked jasmine rice compare per 1 cup serving (195g):

Nutrient	Jasmine Rice
Calories	205
Carbohydrates	44.2g
Protein	4.2g
Fat	0.4g
Fiber	0.6g
Sugars	0g

Like all rice, cooked jasmine rice is high in carbohydrates and low in fat. It has slightly more carbohydrates than regular long grain white rice. Jasmine rice is not a significant source of protein or fiber.

The glycemic index of jasmine rice is relatively high at 109. This means it can cause more rapid spikes in blood sugar compared to low glycemic foods.

Jasmine rice contains small amounts of some vitamins and minerals. A 1 cup serving provides:

Thiamine (Vitamin B1): 7% RDI

Niacin (Vitamin B3): 5% RDI
Folate (Vitamin B9): 7% RDI
Magnesium: 11% RDI

Phosphorus: 4% RDI

So in moderation, jasmine rice can provide some B vitamins, magnesium, phosphorus, and antioxidant carotenoids. Brown jasmine rice contains more nutrients, fiber, and protein than white jasmine rice.

Where to Buy Jasmine Rice

It is easy to find jasmine rice at most grocery stores and supermarkets these days. Here are some places to buy jasmine rice:

Asian grocery stores – Large selection of Thai or Vietnamese jasmine rice.
International food aisles – Found in the Asian or rice section.
Whole Foods and natural grocers – Sell organic and specialty jasmine rice.

Walmart, Kroger, Publix – Widely available at big chain grocers.
Amazon and online stores – Order jasmine rice online for delivery.
Farmers markets – Artisanal and locally grown rice varieties.

The two main types of jasmine rice are Thai and Vietnamese. Thai jasmine rice tends to be more aromatic and softer in texture. Check for keywords like “Thai hom mali rice” on packaging. Gluten free or organic jasmine rice is also available.

Jasmine rice is relatively affordable, costing $1 to $3 per pound on average. Buying larger bags, like 10 to 20 pounds, can help lower the per pound price. When shopping, look for evenly sized, blemish-free whole grains. Avoid musty, stale, or moist packaging.

Conclusion

While not a perfect 1:1 substitute, jasmine rice can work well in place of regular long grain rice in many recipes. Its aromatic fragrance provides added dimension to dishes, though the sticky texture may not suit certain rice preparations. With some simple adjustments to proportions, cooking method, and expectations on flavor, jasmine rice can be an interesting alternative to regular rice. Just keep in mind the differences in texture and be mindful of cuisines that best complement jasmine rice’s properties during cooking.