Kerala Rice Varieties: A Complete Guide to the Best Rice in Kerala
Kerala Rice Varieties: A Complete Guide to the Best Rice in Kerala
When you think of Kerala, you probably picture swaying coconut trees, serene backwaters, and a steaming plate of red rice. In God’s Own Country, rice is not just a food item; it is an emotion. From the daily lunch served at home to the grand feasts of a Vishu or Onam Sadhya, the choice of grain defines the meal.
However, if you are new to the world of Kerala rice varieties, you might find the options a bit overwhelming. With names like Matta, Jaya, Kuruva, and Jeerakasala, how do you know which one is the best rice in Kerala for your kitchen?
In this guide, we’ll break down the most popular varieties and show you why VMR Kuthira is the trusted choice for authentic Kerala grains.
Palakkadan Matta (or Rosematta) is perhaps the most iconic of all Kerala rice varieties. Grown in the rich, black cotton soil of Palakkad, this rice is famous for its bold grains and reddish-brown bran layer.
Best for: Daily lunch with fish curry, Sambar, or Moru curry.
Why it’s loved: It is packed with fiber, magnesium, and vitamins. Because it is parboiled with the husk, the nutrients are locked inside the grain.
VMR Kuthira Specialty: Our Vadi Matta (long grain) and Unda Matta (short bold grain) are processed to keep the bran intact, ensuring you get the maximum health benefits.
If Matta is the king of nutrition, Jaya rice is the queen of convenience. It is a long-grain, semi-polished variety that is incredibly popular across South Indian households.
Best for: Families who prefer a lighter, softer texture for their daily meals.
Why it’s loved: It cooks faster than Matta and has a subtle flavor that doesn't overpower the side dishes. It’s also great for making soft Idlis and Dosas.
The VMR Difference: We source premium Jaya Rice that is aged perfectly, ensuring the grains stay separate and fluffy after cooking.
Often called the "white version" of red rice, Kuruva Rice is a traditional variety that offers a balance between health and taste. It is slightly reddish but softer than Matta.
Best for: Children, elderly family members, or anyone with a sensitive digestive system.
Why it’s loved: It is rich in antioxidants like Selenium and is known for being very easy on the stomach.
VMR Kuthira Quality: Our Kuruva rice is processed using modern hygiene standards while keeping the traditional parboiling method alive.
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No celebration in Kerala is complete without Biryani, and in the Malabar region, Biryani means Jeerakasala Rice. Unlike the long Basmati used in the North, this is a short, thin, aromatic grain.
Best for: Thalassery Biryani, Ghee Rice (Neychoru), and Payasam.
Why it’s loved: The aroma is captivating, and the grains absorb spices and ghee beautifully without becoming mushy.
How to Choose the Best Rice in Kerala?
Choosing the right rice depends on your health goals and the dish you are preparing. Here is a quick comparison:
| Rice Variety | Best Used For | Key Benefit |
| Matta Rice | Traditional Meals | High Fiber & Low GI |
| Jaya Rice | Daily Lunch/Dinner | Light & Fast Cooking |
| Kuruva Rice | Daily Wellness | Easy Digestion |
| Jeerakasala | Biryani & Ghee Rice | Intense Natural Aroma |
Why VMR Kuthira is the Name You Can Trust
At VMR Kuthira, we believe that every grain tells a story of the land it comes from. With over 50 years of experience, we have mastered the art of milling Kerala rice varieties to perfection.
Direct from Farmers: We work closely with local farmers to ensure only the best paddy reaches our mills.
Zero Chemicals: We don’t use artificial colors or polishing agents. Our rice is as natural as it gets.
State-of-the-art Milling: Our facility at Valookkaran Modern Rice Mill ensures every bag is stone-free and hygienically packed.
Whether you are looking for the heartiness of Matta or the lightness of Jaya, you can find the best rice in Kerala under the VMR Kuthira brand.
Final Thoughts
Rice is the foundation of a healthy Kerala diet. By choosing traditional, less-processed varieties, you aren’t just eating a meal you are investing in your long-term health.
Ready to bring the authentic taste of Kerala to your table? Visit VMR Kuthira’s Product Page to explore our full range of premium rice and order your favorite today!