The story
What it is
Basmati is the long-grain rice of the Punjab, grown in the plains between the Ravi and Chenab rivers, an area known as the Kalar belt. Pakistani basmati is prized for its scent and for grains that stretch long and stay separate when cooked.
Good basmati is aged before it is sold. Ageing dries the grain so it absorbs water evenly and cooks fluffy rather than sticky.
Where it comes from
Basmati has been grown in the Punjab for centuries. Pakistan registered basmati as a geographical indication in 2021, for rice grown in named districts of its Punjab.
