Skip to content

Out of basmati rice?

Basmati Rice substitutes

Basmati Rice is Long-grain aromatic rice with a distinctive nutty flavor and fragrance.

Use this

Jasmine Rice

Use the same amount as the basmati rice you are replacing

Close matchBest for Asian dishes

The best substitutes for basmati rice are jasmine rice, long-grain white rice, or brown basmati rice, depending on the use.

At a glance

Every basmati rice substitute on one screen. Tap a name for detail.

Basmati Rice substitutes compared
#SubstituteInstead of basmati rice, use
1Jasmine RiceSame amount
2Long-Grain White RiceSame amount
3Brown Basmati RiceSame amount
4Wild RiceSame amount

Every basmati rice substitute

Ranked, with the exact amount and what changes

Substitutes for Basmati Rice with ratios

  1. 1. Jasmine Rice

    Close match

    Use the same amount

    Aromatic long-grain rice with similar texture and fragrance

    What changes
    Best for
    Asian dishes, rice bowls, fried rice, curries

    Slightly stickier than basmati, very fragrant

  2. 2. Long-Grain White Rice

    Different taste

    Use the same amount

    Standard long-grain rice without the aromatic quality

    What changes
    Best for
    general cooking, rice dishes, budget-friendly option, everyday meals

    Less fragrant but similar texture and cooking method

  3. 3. Brown Basmati Rice

    Different texture

    Use the same amount

    Whole grain version of basmati with nuttier flavor

    What changes
    Best for
    healthier option, rice dishes, grain bowls, nutritious meals

    Takes longer to cook, more fiber and nutrients

  4. 4. Wild Rice

    Taste and texture differ

    Use the same amount

    Nutty, chewy grain with distinct flavor

    What changes
    Best for
    pilafs, stuffing, grain salads, mixed rice dishes

    Very different texture, takes much longer to cook

Tips for substituting basmati rice

  • Rinse basmati rice before cooking to remove excess starch
  • Soak basmati rice for 30 minutes for fluffier results
  • Use a 1:1.5 ratio of rice to water for perfect texture
  • Let rice rest for 5 minutes after cooking before fluffing

Questions about basmati rice substitutes

What makes basmati rice different from regular rice?

Basmati rice has a distinctive aroma and nutty flavor, plus it elongates when cooked while remaining separate and fluffy.

Can I use basmati rice for sushi?

No, basmati rice is too dry and separate for sushi. Use short-grain sushi rice for proper sticky texture.

Is brown basmati rice healthier than white basmati?

Yes, brown basmati retains the bran and germ, providing more fiber, vitamins, and minerals than white basmati.

Need a different ingredient?

Browse the full index, or the rest of this category.