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  • 10 Best Basmati Rice 2024 | UK Nutritionist Reviewed 1
  • 10 Best Basmati Rice 2024 | UK Nutritionist Reviewed 2
  • 10 Best Basmati Rice 2024 | UK Nutritionist Reviewed 3
  • 10 Best Basmati Rice 2024 | UK Nutritionist Reviewed 4
  • 10 Best Basmati Rice 2024 | UK Nutritionist Reviewed 5

10 Best Basmati Rice 2024 | UK Nutritionist Reviewed

Basmati rice originated in India and South Asia and is commonly paired with curries or used in biriyanis, but why restrict what you can serve it with? This type of rice goes well with most types of Asian cuisine as well as making for a great accompaniment to meat or veggie-based meals. In the UK, basmati rice is usually served with chilli con carne, curry or casserole, but it can act as a side for a simple chicken dinner too. 


We'll share our ranking of the top 10 best basmati rice available online, from authentic and affordable brands like Tilda, Ben's Original, and more. Whether you want a perfectly portioned packet that you can simply boil or pop in the microwave or a loose bag you can portion out yourself, ASDA, Tesco, Waitrose, and Amazon have got you covered. Let's get cooking!

Last updated 28/03/2024

Quick List - Top Basmati Rice

1

Tilda

Brown Basmati Rice
Brown Basmati Rice

Wholesome Brown Basmati Packed With Vitamins and Minerals

2

Tilda

Steamed Basmati Lemon & Herb Rice
Steamed Basmati Lemon & Herb Rice

Zesty Lemon and Herb Microwave Rice in an Instant

3

Kohinoor

Gold Basmati Rice
Gold Basmati Rice

Soft Long Grain Rice That Pairs Well With Curry

4

Laila

Brown Basmati Rice
Brown Basmati Rice

For Rice Lovers Who Want a Big Supply of Basmati

5

Tilda

Pure Original Basmati
Pure Original Basmati

Pure Basmati Flavour From a Classic Brand

Tara Corbett
Expert
Nutritionist
Tara Corbett

mybest UK specialist Tara is a nutritionist and energy coach who helps clients lose weight, improve their eating habits, and get their energy back through their nutrition. Tara specialises in helping busy parents specifically improve their eating with ease and without overwhelm, and get back on track so the whole family can benefit.

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Table of Contents

With Specialist Consultation From Nutritionist Tara Corbett

With Specialist Consultation From Nutritionist Tara Corbett

Tara is a nutritionist and energy coach who helps clients lose weight, improve their eating habits, and get their energy back through their nutrition. Tara specialises in helping busy parents specifically improve their eating with ease and without overwhelm, and get back on track so the whole family can benefit.

How to Choose a Basmati Rice in the UK

Key Points to Consider
  1. Consider Your Desired Cooking Method and Time
  2. Go for White or Brown Rice Depending on What Fits Your Diet and Tastes
  3. Opt for Basmati Rice With Less Than 150 Calories Per 100 G If You Want to Lose Weight
1

Decide Which Cooking Method You Prefer and How Much Time You Want to Spend in the Kitchen

Decide Which Cooking Method You Prefer and How Much Time You Want to Spend in the Kitchen

If Time Isn’t an Issue, Opt for Classic Dried Rice Cooked on the Hob

Boiling regular dried basmati is the most traditional way of cooking it, and perhaps the healthiest and tastiest, too. However, take into consideration the time this variety takes to simmer, as it can vary depending on the type and brand


White basmati can take as little as 10 minutes, whereas wholegrain will require around 25 minutes. You can also add less water and put a lid on the rice if you'd prefer to steam it, but this is normally a more suitable method for sushi-style rice that is meant to turn out sticky. 


Speaking of sticky rice, discover our top picks for the best Japanese rice in the UK!

Tara Corbett
Nutritionist
Tara Corbett

Boiling rice is by far the simplest and healthiest option when cooking. Boiling as a method of cooking retains more of the nutrients as opposed to other methods such as microwave, and the food itself is usually tastier. I always prefer to boil basmati rice over microwaving, as the extra few minutes of preparation time is well worth it.

Prefer to Use Pre-measured Portions? Go for Easy Boil-In-The-Bag Basmati

If you're a fan of boiling rather than microwaving your rice, but you never know exactly how much to measure out, boil-in-the-bag rice could well be the one for you. This variety of basmati comes in little pre-portioned bags of about 100 g or less – all you have to do is get some water boiling on the hob and pop the bag in


However, these packets are more wasteful and not normally as good value for money as dried rice. Plus, they usually take around the same time to cook as any other rice you boil on the hob, so don't forget to set a timer! 

Tara Corbett
Nutritionist
Tara Corbett

The boil in the bag option of basmati rice is a great choice if you are looking for a simplified way to control your portion and prefer the tastier option of boiling the rice. The standard portion size of rice should be 1 cup or roughly the size of a closed fist. 


When boiling rice regularly, it is very easy to cook an abundance and then over-serve yourself past the recommended serving size, and so the boil-in-the-bag option of basmati rice ensures you eat just the right amount.

For a Super Speedy Meal, Purchase a Microwavable Rice Packet

Microwaving rice is the fastest way of cooking it and there are lots of packets on the market which only take a few minutes to blast. Another advantage of microwaveable basmati rice is the availability of different flavours. From lemon and herb to spicy chilli, these can make for an effortless addition to an Asian curry or can add a bit more excitement to a simple fish dish. 


If you want to enjoy your rice at work or somewhere away from home, this variety has got your back – it's portable and makes a great quick lunch. Just make sure you have access to a microwave! 


For a quick and tasty meal, you can't go wrong with instant noodles and ramen. Check out our favourites!

Tara Corbett
Nutritionist
Tara Corbett

There is a large selection of microwavable basmati rice currently on the market, which makes spicing up your dishes even more exciting. All basmati rice is gluten-free, making it an excellent choice for those looking to eliminate or minimise their gluten intake.


Here are our 10 best gluten-free pastas.

2

Simple White or Wholegrain Brown Basmati? Select a Variety That Suits Your Diet and Taste

Simple White or Wholegrain Brown Basmati? Select a Variety That Suits Your Diet and Taste

White Basmati Is Ideal if You’re Looking for Something Inexpensive, Filling and Quick to Cook

White basmati rice is the most traditional option to go for, and you will find hundreds of options available in the UK supermarkets and online. This rice is known for having a soft, fluffy texture and pairs brilliantly with chicken or fish, or any meat and veg, really! It's also ideal for making traditional dishes such as biriyani or jollof rice. 


It also tends to be cheaper than brown basmati, as well as having a higher calorie and carb content than other white rice varieties. So, not only will this type save you money, but you don't have to eat as big of a portion to feel full! On the downside, this may not suit those on certain diets. 

Tara Corbett
Nutritionist
Tara Corbett

White basmati rice does have a lot of benefits. It’s a simple and easy pairing to many meals and will easily accompany many sauces and spices with the dish. But ultimately, the white basmati rice does not come packed with many nutrients or minerals and is relatively high in calories. If your health goals are weight loss or weight management, I recommend choosing brown basmati rice and steering clear of the white version.

Choose Brown Basmati Rice for a More Nutritious Grain Should as It Is Packed With Vitamins and a Great Source of Fibre

The brown or wholegrain varieties of bread, pasta, and rice always tend to be less processed, and with brown basmati, this is no different. Seeing as it has not been milled to remove its husk, bran, and germ, brown rice retains its high vitamin and mineral content


As well as being high in antioxidants, it also has a lot more fibre than white rice, so it will keep you fuller for much longer. All in all, if you're health-conscious and looking for the most nutritious option, it would be beneficial to go for brown basmati rice. 


However, you should bear in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook and can cost more than white basmati, but for all its draws, as well as its slightly nuttier taste and firmer texture after cooking, many people do prefer it. 

Tara Corbett
Nutritionist
Tara Corbett

I always recommend that wherever possible, opt for whole wheat and brown versions of grains and so this is no different with basmati rice. Brown basmati rice has higher levels of fibre, and a diet rich in fibre helps regulate your digestion, feeds the good gut bacteria, fights inflammation, and can even help you lose weight. 

3

Look For Basmati Rice With Less Than 150 Calories per 100 g if You’re Trying to Lose Weight

Look For Basmati Rice With Less Than 150 Calories per 100 g if You’re Trying to Lose Weight

While it won't be everyone's priority, for some, the calories and carbohydrate content might play a part when deciding on a basmati rice. If you are watching what you eat for various reasons, you can check the packet for exact details on calories (this will usually be stated per 100 g). 


White rice is commonly known to have more carbohydrates than brown rice, though this does vary depending on the brand and, of course, the portion size you serve yourself. It is usually what you serve your rice with that adds the extra calories and carbohydrates, so just be mindful if this is something you are conscious about. 

Tara Corbett
Nutritionist
Tara Corbett

Rice of any sort can be very easy to overindulge in as it is used as a side or to accompany many meals, without much thought put into how many calories and carbohydrates are in it. White basmati rice is especially high in calories and carbohydrates compared to brown and whole-grain versions. 


So I always recommend opting for brown over white rice. If weight loss is one of your health goals, you should undoubtedly be picking brown rice, as the high fibre count will help you feel full longer.

Was the Buying Guide helpful?

10 Best Basmati Rice in the UK

This ranking has been compiled by the writing team at mybest UK via careful evaluation of the points made in the buying guide and thorough research of each product and comparing multiple verified customer reviews across the EC sites used.
Popularity
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Key features
1

Tilda

Brown Basmati Rice

Tilda  Brown Basmati Rice 1

Wholesome Brown Basmati Packed With Vitamins and Minerals

2

Tilda

Steamed Basmati Lemon & Herb Rice

Tilda  Steamed Basmati Lemon & Herb Rice 1

Zesty Lemon and Herb Microwave Rice in an Instant

3

Kohinoor

Gold Basmati Rice

Kohinoor Gold Basmati Rice 1

Soft Long Grain Rice That Pairs Well With Curry

4

Laila

Brown Basmati Rice

Laila Brown Basmati Rice 1

For Rice Lovers Who Want a Big Supply of Basmati

5

Tilda

Pure Original Basmati

Tilda Pure Original Basmati  1

Pure Basmati Flavour From a Classic Brand

6

ASDA

Boil in the Bag Basmati Rice4 Pack

ASDA Boil in the Bag Basmati Rice 1

No More Weighing Out Rice With These Perfectly-Portioned Bags

7

Salaam

Basmati Rice

Salaam  Basmati Rice 1

The Finest Aromatic Rice From the Punjab Region

8

Badshah

Superior Aged Basmati Rice

Badshah  Superior Aged Basmati Rice 1

Superior Aged Basmati Rice Offering a Taste Sensation

9

Ben's Original

Basmati Microwave Rice

Ben's Original Basmati Microwave Rice 1

A Speedy Option That's Ready in 2 Minutes

10

VeeTee

Himalayan Basmati

VeeTee Himalayan Basmati 1

Aromatic Fluffy Basmati That's Low in Calories

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

Tilda
Brown Basmati Rice

Brown Basmati Rice 1
Source:groceries.asda.com
Reference price
£2.89
Mid
Reference price
£2.89
Mid

Wholesome Brown Basmati Packed With Vitamins and Minerals

Tilda's brown basmati might take longer to boil than some of the other rice options on the market, but trust us, it's worth that 25 minute wait! The golden brown grains produce a nutty taste and are full of nutritious vitamins and minerals


Brown rice also has much more fibre than white rice, so if you're considering your digestion and health, this is definitely one of the most wholesome options. A 500 g pack size means you will have more than enough portions to last you a few weeks, and even though it's from a leading brand, the price is good, too. 

Was this Ranking helpful?
No.2

Tilda
Steamed Basmati Lemon & Herb Rice

Zesty Lemon and Herb Microwave Rice in an Instant

If convenience is top of your list, you'll love Tilda's instant rice. Probably one of the fastest options you could go for, all you need is a microwave. And even if you don't have one, you can fry it! It's ideal to take to work or to pair with your evening meal, and the subtle lemon and herb flavouring makes it appropriate to eat with simple accompaniments. 


There are 2 portions in this 250 g pouch so it's perfect for dinner for two – why not have it with salmon to complement the zingy lemon? Another perk of this basmati is that even though it's flavoured, it's low in calories, with only 137 per 100 g. How can you say no?

No.3

Kohinoor
Gold Basmati Rice

Reference price
£13.50
High Mid

Soft Long Grain Rice That Pairs Well With Curry

For those who love rice and regularly cook it, here's another economical 10 kg bag of basmati. In the long run, it's cost-effective to buy rice in bulk, especially if you're ordering online and getting it delivered to your door. This bag might be quite tricky to carry home from the supermarket or transfer to your car! 


Kohinoor offer basmati rice at an excellent price: this option works out at to be more economical per portion if you're purchasing the bigger bag. This classic basmati is a good quality, hand selected long grain with a soft texture, and would be the perfect side for chicken or an Indian curry. 

No.4

Laila
Brown Basmati Rice

Reference price
£9.09
High Mid

For Rice Lovers Who Want a Big Supply of Basmati

With an average boiling time of 14 minutes, you can't go wrong with this brown basmati rice. Laila age their rice to intensify its flavour and taste, resulting in a delicious basmati and an excellent source of carbohydrates to keep energy levels up. 


We recommend buying this rice if you're a regular rice eater as 5 kg is rather a lot, however, it does last for years so maybe you wouldn't end up wasting any! There are also smaller bags of 1 kg available if you'd like to try it out before committing. 

No.5

Tilda
Pure Original Basmati

Reference price
£2.85
Mid

Pure Basmati Flavour From a Classic Brand

All of Tilda's products are made with carefully-sourced ingredients from the Himalayas to maximise goodness and flavour. This particular basmati is very delicate and fluffy, and it has a lovely aroma that you'll enjoy smelling as well as tasting. It only takes 10 -12 minutes to cook too, and boy is it worth the short wait! 


Of course, it depends on what you're looking for, but 500g is usually a great packet size to start with as it makes up a fair few portions (around 8) so you can test out how much you like it. With an average calorie count of 351 kcal per 100g and 77.7g of carbohydrates in 100 g, this basmati is a healthy source of energy that tastes great, too. 

No.6

ASDA
Boil in the Bag Basmati Rice4 Pack

Boil in the Bag Basmati Rice 1
Reference price
£1.00
Low Mid
Reference price
£1.00
Low Mid

No More Weighing Out Rice With These Perfectly-Portioned Bags

Ever find yourself struggling to measure out an exact amount of rice or know how much you're going to eat? ASDA has come to save the day with their boil-in-the-bag basmati that takes 14-16 minutes to boil, and all you have to do is drop the entire bag into the pot


These little bags are designed to serve two, so if you stick to the measured-out portion sizes you have a healthy side that marries up nicely with a chilli con carne or curry dish. If you're watching your calorie and carb intake then this basmati is most definitely a suitable option with only 127 kcal per 100 g. 

No.7

Salaam
Basmati Rice

Basmati Rice 1
Source:tesco.com
Reference price
£9.00
High Mid
Reference price
£9.00
High Mid

The Finest Aromatic Rice From the Punjab Region

    Salaam's traditional rice has enough servings to last you a year if you're eating it a few times a month! This particular brand offers an excellent price for the size of the bag – 5 kg for less than a tenner. If you're looking to buy a large amount, this basmati rice would be ideal. 


    The fine rice grains are from the fertile region of Punjab, indicating great quality and a tasty outcome. Pair this rice with your favourite curry for a taste sensation that's ready in just 10 minutes! 

    No.8

    Badshah
    Superior Aged Basmati Rice

    Superior Aged Basmati Rice 1
    Source:tesco.com
    Reference price
    £8.00
    High Mid
    Reference price
    £8.00
    High Mid

    Superior Aged Basmati Rice Offering a Taste Sensation

    Badshah is a brand that provides 'quality you can trust' and are known for their delicious slender and aromatic basmati. For those who prefer boiling their rice and would choose white over brown, this superior aged basmati could be your new favourite. 


    It's convenient for a quick dinner, as it only takes about 10 minutes to cook. This rice has around the average calorie count for 100 g of rice with 349 kcal, so it will definitely keep you full and boost your energy levels any time of the day. The 5-kilo bag may be too much for some, but if you eat a lot of rice, this is a great deal. 

    A Speedy Option That's Ready in 2 Minutes

    Previously well-known as Uncle Ben's, the brand has changed it's name to Ben's Original. Nevertheless, this rice is still as popular due it being so convenient to microwave and ready in only a few minutes. For anyone wanting a quick lunch or speedy after-work dinner, this could be your new go-to. Plus, the fact that it's a good source of carbohydrates means it would also make a great pre-workout meal to fuel your body with glycogen.


    This pack is around a pound for 250 grams which is decent considering it serves two, even though it's more costly per portion than a bag of dried rice. That said, while you're paying for convenience, the fact that the whole packet goes in the microwave does mean it'll save you some washing up as well as time! 

    No.10

    VeeTee
    Himalayan Basmati

    Himalayan Basmati 1
    Source:waitrose.com
    Reference price
    £3.00
    Mid
    Reference price
    £3.00
    Mid

    Aromatic Fluffy Basmati That's Low in Calories

    Harvested from the foothills of the Himalayas, VeeTee's basmati is a must-try if you're keen on white rice. Its extra-long grains, aromatic aroma, and fluffy texture make it ideal to pair with curries, casseroles and meat dishes. It's simple to boil and takes only around 12 minutes, so you won't be waiting long. 


    This basmati rice is low in calories and carbs, meaning you can still enjoy it if you're dieting or cutting down on calories. It's probably only beneficial to buy 1 kg of rice if you're sharing it with friends, family, or housemates, though, as it's a lot to get through! You will most likely save money if you eat rice regularly and buy it in bulk.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Is Basmati Rice Good for Diabetics?

    We wouldn’t say they are good for people with diabetes. However, diabetics can eat rice, but not too frequently. As basmati rice is rich in carbohydrates and has a high glycemic index, it would be ideal to skip it for dinner and consume it in moderation.

    Is Basmati Rice Healthy?

    Basmati rice is rich in carbs, enriched with iron and vitamin B, and low in arsenic. However, white rice is associated with type 2 diabetes, obesity, whereas, brown rice which is high in fibre, is relatively healthier. So, prefer brown over white rice, and consider consuming white rice in moderation if you have no choice.

    Additional Links

    Written and researched by Charlotte Lillington

    Top 5 Basmati Rice

    No. 1: Tilda Brown Basmati Rice

    No. 2: Tilda Steamed Basmati Lemon & Herb Rice

    No. 3: KohinoorGold Basmati Rice

    No. 4: LailaBrown Basmati Rice

    No. 5: TildaPure Original Basmati

    View Full Ranking
    The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.

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