Many varieties of rice fall within these two categories and, among the long grain varieties, basmati and jasmine rice are some of the most common ones in South Asian and Middle Eastern cuisine.

The chemical compounds that give this rice its beautiful aroma are quick to break down, so that jasmine rice loses some of its flavour as it ages. Use it quickly and buy fresh rice often.

If you're a fan of Indian, Thai, other South and Southeast Asian, and Middle Eastern cuisines, you've undoubtedly eaten ...