Samba (rice)

Samba is a variety of rice grown in Sri Lanka and some parts of India (mainly in Tamil Nadu)., and has a small ovular grain, compared to the long grain of basmati rice.

Description

Samba rice has a distinct taste and can be described as having a more 'starchy' or 'corny' flavor, and thus is an acquired taste preferred mainly by the locals.

The grain itself is much harder than the other varieties and when cooked is less 'fluffy' in texture so gives a more filling meal with a higher caloric value.

All Samba rice grain is harvested locally and there are many sub-varieties ranging in grain size and price. Jiru Samba is the most expensive sub-variety and has the smallest grain. It is approximately a third the size of a grain of basmati rice.

Cultivation

Samba rice is grown extensively in the South Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Rice grown in Samba season (Aug through Jan) is referred to as Samba rice.^[1] This rice is grown for a longer duration compared to other types of rice.

See also

• Traditional rice varieties of Tamil Nadu
• List of rice varieties

References

Varieties of rice Ambemohar Arborio Aromatic rice Basmati Bhutanese red rice Black rice Bora saul Brown rice Calrose rice Camargue red rice Carnaroli Champa Dubraj Flattened rice Glutinous rice Golden rice Germinated brown rice Hybrid rice Japanese rice Jasmati Jasmine Joha rice Koshihikari Maratelli Matta rice Molakolukulu Nàng Thơm Chợ Đào Navara New Rice for Africa Nishiki rice Parboiled rice Patna rice Perennial rice Pokkali Ponni Rice Pusa 1121 Rice Red rice Red Cargo Samba Sasanishiki Semi-dwarf IR36 Sona Masuri Tulaipanji Vialone Nano Weedy rice Wehani White rice Yamada Nishiki