Popular Rice Varieties in Asia

I was asked the other day about which rice should be used for the upcoming stir fry class and I had to think back to a culinary class I once took at The Culinary Institute of America. 

​Rice is a staple food in many Asian countries, including China, Japan, Korea, Thailand, and India. While rice is a common element in their diets, there are notable differences in the varieties of rice grown and consumed in each country.
China: China is the world's largest producer and consumer of rice. The most commonly grown and consumed rice in China is the indica rice variety. This type of rice has long grains and tends to be fluffy when cooked. In northern China, japonica rice, which has shorter grains and a stickier texture, is also popular. Chinese cuisine utilizes rice in various dishes, from stir-fries to steamed rice.
Japan: Japan is renowned for its high-quality rice, known as japonica rice or sushi rice. Japonica rice is short-grain and has a sticky texture when cooked. The rice grains are plump and slightly sweet, making it ideal for sushi, onigiri (rice balls), and other traditional Japanese dishes. Japan has strict quality standards for rice production, and different grades are available, with higher grades being prized for their superior taste and texture.
Korea: In Korea, both short-grain and medium-grain rice varieties are commonly consumed. The most widely cultivated rice in Korea is a medium-grain rice called japonica rice or glutinous rice. Despite the name, glutinous rice is not actually sticky, but it does have a slightly chewy texture when cooked. It is a staple in Korean cuisine, used for dishes like bibimbap, rice cakes, and rice porridge.
Thailand: Thailand is known for its aromatic and long-grain rice, particularly jasmine rice (also known as Thai fragrant rice). Jasmine rice is highly prized for its natural fragrance and soft, slightly sticky texture. When cooked, the grains have a subtle floral aroma and a delicate flavor. Jasmine rice is commonly used in Thai cuisine, serving as a side dish or the base for popular dishes like green curry and pineapple fried rice.
India: India is a major producer and consumer of rice, with a diverse range of rice varieties. Basmati rice is the most famous and widely consumed type in India. Basmati rice is a long-grain rice with a distinct aroma and delicate flavor. It is known for its fluffy texture and is often used to make biryanis, pilafs, and other fragrant rice dishes. In addition to basmati, other popular rice varieties in India include Sona Masuri and parboiled rice.
While these countries share a common love for rice, each has its own preferences for specific rice varieties based on culinary traditions, regional preferences, and cultural influences. The variations in rice varieties contribute to the unique flavors, textures, and aromas found in the diverse cuisines of China, Japan, Korea, Thailand, and India.