Here's When It's Worth It to Buy That Super-Expensive Rice

Rice is a time-honored staple in most American kitchens, and no wonder: It’s filling, versatile and ridiculously, gloriously cheap.

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Like, seriously cheap. I’m talking 2.5 cents per ounce when you buy the 20-pound bag from Walmart, and even lower if you buy in bulk.

Not bad at all, but there is one important caveat.

Rice is only that cheap when you’re buying cheap rice.

And as you may have noticed while perusing the rice aisle, not all of it is so affordable. Depending on the amount, brand and variety, you might pay as much as 40 cents per ounce, or more! That’s more than 15 times the cost outlined above.

Of course, these fancy rices supposedly offer superior nutrition, fail-proof cooking, a gourmet cultural experience and, of course, prettier packaging.

So, is it worth the cost to upgrade? What’s a rice-hungry Penny Hoarder to do?

Rice: It’s Way More Complicated Than You Think

You’d think at least something in life could be simple, just for once. But even with this everyday food, it’s not the case.

To figure out if costlier rice is a worthwhile investment, we must first figure out what supposedly makes it so much better in the first place.

So here’s a breakdown of a few of the most common varieties of rice (although even this is by no means an exhaustive list!) and what benefits they might add to your culinary arsenal.

Author’s note: For the purposes of this post, I’ll ignore branding, which can add a mighty price increase in its own right. I can’t say this for sure, but… it’s rice, right? I doubt the name on the package has much to do with the product’s taste and nutrition, although processing and sourcing might be different in significant ways.

So, let’s get cooking! (Sorry. Had to.)

White Rice — 2-7 cents per ounce

This is what you probably think of when you think of rice: the good ol’, regular white stuff. It comes in long-, medium- and short-grain varieties, and the U.S. government requires companies to enrich it with B vitamins and iron.

That’s because white rice is actually brown rice that’s been stripped of its tough, but nutrient- and fiber-rich exterior germ and bran. Without the enrichment treatment, it’s kind of nutritionally void — and a diet based primarily on it might actually make you sick.

Anyway. White rice is super-popular and super-cheap, and its neutral flavor makes it a good accompaniment for many dishes. It also boasts a longer shelf life than whole-grain rices and takes less time to cook.

Taste: Mild, with a light, fluffy texture, depending on grain length and whether it’s cooked correctly. White rice is probably the most versatile type.

Nutrition: Although white rice actually has slightly fewer calories per cup than brown rice (199 versus 216), it also has less protein and fiber, and far less magnesium and vitamin B.

Cook time: White rice usually takes 20 minutes or less to cook since its tough outer layers have been milled away. (Psst: Check out this post for full details!)

Brown Rice — 4-8 cents per ounce

Brown rice is just white rice with all its clothes on. It’s also arguably better for you, since it has more naturally occurring nutrients, fiber and protein. Brown rice also comes in different grain sizes.

Taste: A little nuttier and chewier than white rice; hearty and satisfying, but it’s definitely got a distinct flavor.

Nutrition: Brown rice doesn’t need any stinking enrichment! It’s got lots of vitamins and minerals, and even a trace amount of unsaturated fat — which is good for you!

Cook time: Because brown rice still has its germ and bran, it takes a bit longer than white rice to soften — closer to 45 minutes.

Jasmine Rice — 7-10 cents per ounce

Jasmine rice is a long-grain variety of fragrant rice from Southeast Asia, primarily Thailand.

Although it’s named after a pretty-smelling flower, the “fragrance” noted has been described as reminiscent of popcorn and pandan, a tropical plant in the area. The name is, instead, thanks to the color, which is white, like the jasmine bloom. (Brown jasmine rice is also available, however, because like I said, why would this be simple?)

Taste: Because jasmine rice is “fragrant,” it does differ subtly in flavor from regular white rice, but the most important difference here is texture. After you prepare it, jasmine rice is soft and slightly sticky, which makes it great for stir-fry, as a side dish or in soups, but not so great for frying.

Nutrition: Just like regular brown and white rices, jasmine rice offers more or less nutritional value based on how much it’s been processed.

Cook time: Again, you can cook white varieties in about 20-30 minutes, whereas brown might take double that time.

Basmati Rice — 13-30+ cents per ounce

Another long-grain, fragrant rice, basmati rice hails from India and Pakistan.

However, because it’s so much pricier than other varieties — and because it can be hard to tell the difference between it and, say, jasmine — crossbred or otherwise inauthentic rice is sold fraudulently as basmati with shocking frequency.

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What does that mean to you? Be on guard for a rip-off! You might spend extra cash without getting the extra flavor kick and light texture basmati’s known for.

Taste: A slightly earthier, spicier flavor than other regular rice varieties.

Nutrition: Similar to jasmine rice — no special qualities.

How to cook it: Again, similar to jasmine.

Wild Rice — 43+ cents per ounce

This one’s kind of a ringer.

That’s because wild rice isn’t actually rice at all, but a grass! As such, it’s got more protein, and slightly fewer carbohydrates and calories per cup. It also tastes super-different from any other rice we’ve looked at thus far.

Taste: Chewier and denser than even regular brown rice with a notable nutty, toasty flavor. This one definitely brings something distinct to the table. It’s great for pilafs!

Nutrition: As mentioned above, wild “rice” has about 166 calories per cup, as opposed to about 200 for most other varieties, and since it’s a whole-grain rice, it’s full of micronutrients.

How to cook it: Wild rice is a little different from other types, as you might imagine, and its cook times can vary from 30 minutes to over an hour. Unlike other varieties, wild rice can benefit from soaking before you cook it since it’s such a tough whole grain.

Alright, So… Is It Worth it to Upgrade?

Unfortunately, there’s no easy answer.

It depends on you: your personal preference, how you value the balance of nutritional benefits versus taste and how observant you are as an eater. My father, for example, probably wouldn’t know the difference between fresh basmati rice straight from the foothills of the Himalayas and the stuff that costs cents on the dollar.

Another factor to consider: What kind of dish is the rice for?

If you’re going to put it in a soup, for example, the finer texture and subtle taste difference of jasmine versus regular rice probably won’t matter, and thus isn’t worth the upcharge. But if the rice is a major component of the meal, that’s a different story.

In case your head isn’t already spinning, keep in mind that different kinds of rice are naturally better-suited for different applications: Short rice tends to cook up clumpier and stickier, so it’s used to roll sushi; medium-grain rice is classic in risotto; long-grain rice is light and fluffy and a perfect bed for your stir-fry.

So unfortunately, you’ll have to decide for yourself. But my advice? If you’re happy with the taste, choose the brown version of your favorite rice.

It usually costs about the same, and you’ll still reap the nutritional benefits, if nothing else.

Your Turn: What’s your go-to rice variety?

Indroduction

Purchasing rice in bulk can be a cost-effective and convenient way to stock up on this staple food. However, there are several potential pitfalls that can turn what seems like a smart purchase into a waste of money or a health concern. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when buying rice in bulk, so you can make the most of your purchase.

1. Not Checking for Proper Storage Conditions

One of the most common mistakes when buying rice in bulk is not considering how it will be stored. Rice, especially when purchased in large quantities, needs to be kept in a cool, dry, and airtight environment to maintain its quality. If you don’t have proper storage containers, rice can absorb moisture, leading to mold growth and spoilage. Always ensure you have airtight bins or containers to store rice, and avoid keeping it in humid or warm areas.

2. Purchasing More Than You Can Use

While buying in bulk is typically more cost-effective, it’s important to evaluate how much rice your household or business actually consumes. Buying excessive amounts of rice can lead to waste if it’s not consumed before the rice becomes stale or infested with pests. It’s best to buy in quantities that fit your consumption patterns, considering the shelf life and storage space available.

3. Ignoring Rice Type and Quality

Different types of rice have different uses, and not all rice is created equal. When purchasing in bulk, it’s crucial to know which type of rice suits your needs. For instance, if you’re buying rice for sushi, look for short-grain rice, while for everyday cooking, long-grain rice might be better. Additionally, check the quality of the rice—whether it’s organic, free from additives, or non-GMO. Choosing poor-quality rice can affect the flavor and texture of your meals.

4. Overlooking Packaging and Hygiene

Bulk rice is often sold in large sacks, and while these might seem like a bargain, you should be cautious about the packaging. Rice in poorly sealed bags can become contaminated by pests, dirt, or other environmental factors. Check for clean, hygienic packaging that guarantees the rice is safe for consumption. If the rice is not in sealed containers, you risk compromising its safety and quality.

5. Failing to Consider Shelf Life

Rice, particularly white rice, has a long shelf life, but it’s not indefinite. Brown rice, on the other hand, has a shorter shelf life due to its oil content. When purchasing rice in bulk, always check the expiration dates or “best before” dates, especially for varieties like brown rice. To prevent rice from going bad, rotate your stock and consume the older packages first.

6. Not Inspecting the Rice Before Buying

Before committing to a large quantity of rice, always inspect it for any signs of damage, contamination, or infestation. Check the rice for unusual discoloration, an off smell, or the presence of insects. If buying from a bulk bin, make sure the rice looks clean, fresh, and free from foreign objects. Buying rice without inspecting it can lead to a less-than-ideal experience when you open the bag at home.

7. Ignoring the Environmental Impact of Packaging

In today’s environmentally conscious world, it’s important to think about the environmental impact of the products you purchase. Rice is often packaged in plastic bags, which can take years to decompose. When buying in bulk, consider options that minimize packaging waste, such as purchasing from stores that allow you to bring your own containers or opting for brands that use recyclable or biodegradable packaging.

8. Not Comparing Prices

Though buying rice in bulk is generally cheaper, that’s not always the case. Prices can vary significantly depending on the seller, brand, and region. It’s important to compare prices from different stores or suppliers to ensure you’re getting the best deal. Don’t forget to factor in the price of storage containers, especially if you’re buying in extremely large quantities.

9. Skipping the Sustainability Check

If you care about sustainability, consider purchasing rice that supports ethical farming practices. Many bulk rice suppliers offer organic or fair-trade options that support small farmers and ensure environmentally friendly farming practices. Choosing rice with sustainable certifications can make a significant difference in reducing your carbon footprint and supporting eco-friendly agriculture.

10. Not Planning for Storage Duration

Rice doesn’t last forever, even when stored properly. It’s important to estimate how long the rice will be stored before consumption. If you’re purchasing rice that will sit for a long time, consider opting for vacuum-sealed packaging or investing in a long-term storage method to maintain its quality over time.

Conclusion

Purchasing rice in bulk can be a smart decision, but it requires careful planning and consideration. Avoiding these common mistakes will ensure that you get the best quality rice, minimize waste, and save money. From understanding storage needs to choosing the right type of rice and packaging, thoughtful buying will help you enjoy bulk rice for months or even years to come.

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