1. Variety and Origin
1121 Sella Basmati Rice is a derivative of the hybrid Pusa 1121 Basmati variety, developed by the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI). It is one of the longest grain rice varieties in the world, with grains that elongate significantly when cooked.
The term "Sella" refers to the parboiling process that the rice undergoes before it is milled. This process preserves the nutrition and enhances the texture of the rice.
2. Characteristics
Length: The grains of 1121 Sella Basmati Rice are famous for their extra-long size, which can extend up to 8.30-8.40 mm when uncooked, and even longer after cooking.
Color: 1121 Sella is pale yellow or golden in color, which comes from the parboiling process. This distinctive color is retained even after cooking.
Texture: The grains are non-sticky and remain separate after cooking, which gives them a light and fluffy texture.
Aroma: Like other Basmati varieties, 1121 Sella Basmati has a distinctive, mildly nutty aroma, though it may not be as strong as traditional Basmati rice.
3. Nutritional Benefits
High Nutritional Value: The parboiling process transfers nutrients from the bran into the rice kernel, retaining a significant portion of the rice's natural vitamins and minerals, including thiamine, niacin, and magnesium.
Low Glycemic Index (GI): 1121 Sella Basmati Rice has a relatively low GI, making it suitable for people with diabetes or those looking to maintain stable blood sugar levels.
Rich in Carbohydrates: Like most rice varieties, 1121 Sella Basmati is a rich source of carbohydrates, which makes it an excellent energy source.
4. Cooking Qualities
Elongation: 1121 Sella Basmati Rice is known for its remarkable elongation when cooked, making it a preferred choice for dishes like biryani and pulao, where long and separate grains are crucial.
Non-Sticky Texture: The grains do not stick together after cooking, which enhances the overall eating experience. It remains firm yet fluffy, making it an excellent base for curries and stews.
Easy to Cook: Due to the parboiling process, 1121 Sella Basmati cooks faster than traditional white Basmati rice, and it also absorbs more water.
5. Culinary Uses
1121 Sella Basmati Rice is versatile and used in a wide range of dishes, particularly in South Asian and Middle Eastern cuisines. Some common uses include:
Biryani: Its long, non-sticky grains are perfect for preparing biryani, as they can withstand the cooking process without breaking.
Pulao: It’s commonly used in pulao dishes, where the rice needs to remain separate and fluffy.
Fried Rice: Due to its non-sticky nature, it is also ideal for making fried rice dishes, where separate grains are essential.
Steamed Rice: For everyday meals, 1121 Sella can be served as a side dish to complement curries, grilled meats, or vegetable stews.
Commercial Catering: Due to its high yield and quality, 1121 Sella Basmati is often used by restaurants and hotels in bulk for large-scale meal preparation.
6. Packaging and Availability
Packaging: 1121 Sella Basmati Rice is commonly available in various packaging sizes ranging from 1 kg to 50 kg, depending on consumer needs and market demands. Many exporters package it in moisture-resistant bags to maintain its quality during transportation.
Shelf Life: Thanks to the parboiling process, this rice has a longer shelf life than traditional white Basmati rice, making it an ideal choice for long-term storage.
1121 Sella Basmati Rice is a highly prized variety for its extra-long grains, nutritional benefits, and versatility in cooking. Its parboiled nature allows it to retain more nutrients than regular white rice, making it a healthier option. Whether for everyday meals or special dishes like biryani, its non-sticky, fluffy texture and elongated grains make it a favorite among chefs and home cooks alike. Its strong global demand is a testament to its high quality and culinary appeal, particularly in regions that value aromatic and long-grain rice varieties.
