How Important Is Rice In Indian Cuisine

 How Important Is Rice In Indian Cuisine

The importance of rice in Indian culture can be seen when it appears in important life events and festive occasions, regardless of faith. The first bite of solid food given to a baby is usually boiled rice or kheer, rice pudding. Raw rice grains are often mixed with roli or sandalwood paste and then applied to the forehead as a red patch or tilak to help focus a person's energy and act as a cooling medium. In Hindu tradition, rice refers to a symbol of prosperity and well-being; At weddings and prayers, it is an offering to religious deities for protection and blessings. Muslim families will prepare an aromatic pot of seasoned meats with rice to make biryani, which is a feat in itself.

Rice used in Indian cuisine comes in many shapes, forms, and colours, but is generally classified according to the length of the grain. Among long-grain rice, the prized basmati stands out, which is considered the king of Indian rice. Available in white, brown, and red varieties, its name literally translates to "fragrance." (Before basmati rice gained popularity in the United States, long-grain Carolina rice served as a stand-in for many Indian home cooks. But, fortunately, these days Indian basmati is available in almost every store.)