Why Pakistani basmati is special
The plains of Punjab, fed by Himalayan rivers, give basmati its long grain and famous aroma.
Types of basmati
- Super kernel: long, slender, aromatic; the classic for biryani
- Sella (parboiled): sturdier grains that don't break, great for large pots of biryani
- Steam: lightly processed for long, fluffy grains
- Brown: whole grain with more fibre
How to choose
- Look for long, unbroken grains
- Ask if it's aged (at least a year)
- Smell it: good basmati smells fragrant even raw



