Chefs, cookbook authors, and Lundberg Family Farms weigh in.
Heres what I learned.
They are different in many ways, including their origin, texture, aroma, and flavor.
Simply Recipes / Lori Rice
True basmati rice comes exclusively from certain regions of India and Pakistan, Johnson adds.
Different Textures: While both jasmine and basmati rice are long-grain rice, they have different textures.
As a rule of thumb, length and texture are related, Lundberg explains.
John Robinson / Simply Recipes
Jasmine rice has a softer, stickier texture than basmati, which tends to be firmer and chewier.
Jasmine rice tends to have a light, floral fragrance while basmati rice has a nutty, popcorn-like aroma.
Jasmine is just one of many long-grain rice varieties used in Thai cooking.
While some people exclusively link jasmine rice to Thai food, it isnt only served in Thai cooking.
As an example, jasmine rice is one of many types of rice traditionally eaten with Vietnamese food.
However, basmati rice is a go-to in Pakistani, other South Asian, and many Middle Eastern cuisines.
John Robinson / Simply Recipes
Can You Substitute Jasmine for Basmati and Vice Versa?
Likewise, using jasmine to make Indian biryani will turn the dish stickier than usual."
Usmani is also hesitant to suggest substituting jasmine for basmati.
The Takeaway
Jasmine and basmati rice are two types of aromatic long-grain rice.
Jasmine has a more floral fragrance and slightly sweet flavor, while basmati has a nutty flavor and aroma.
Jasmine is also slightly softer and stickier than basmati rice.
