Best Jasmine Rice Substitutes for Thai and Asian Cooking
The best substitute for jasmine rice is Basmati Rice at a 1:1 ratio. It works best for curries, pilafs, biryanis. There are 3 other alternatives below, each with exact ratios and usage notes.
Best Substitute
Basmati Rice
1:1
Another aromatic long-grain rice. Less sticky and more separate when cooked, with a nuttier aroma.
What are the other substitutes for jasmine rice?
Long-Grain White Rice
1:1
Plain long-grain rice without the floral aroma. Add a drop of jasmine extract or pandan leaf for fragrance.
Calrose Rice
1:1
Medium-grain rice with a similar slightly sticky texture. Popular in California and Hawaii.
Brown Jasmine Rice
1:1
Whole grain version with the same floral aroma but nuttier flavor and chewier texture. Takes longer to cook.
What should you know before substituting jasmine rice?
Jasmine rice should not be rinsed as aggressively as other rices if you want to preserve its slight stickiness. One or two quick rinses is sufficient. The floral aroma fades with age, so buy from stores with high turnover for the freshest rice.
How do you substitute jasmine rice in a recipe?
A long-grain Thai rice prized for its delicate floral aroma and slightly sticky, soft texture when cooked. Jasmine rice is the standard accompaniment for Thai, Vietnamese, and Southeast Asian cuisines.
The best substitute for jasmine rice depends on what role it plays in your recipe. Our top recommendation is Basmati Rice (1:1), which works well for curries, pilafs, biryanis.
If you need a different option, Long-Grain White Rice (1:1) is another reliable choice. Plain long-grain rice without the floral aroma. Add a drop of jasmine extract or pandan leaf for fragrance.
When substituting jasmine rice, consider the flavor profile, texture, and cooking method of your recipe. For vegan alternatives, look for the options marked with the vegan badge above.
Substitution ratios verified against USDA FoodData Central and FoodSafety.gov. See our testing methodology for details.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use basmati rice instead of jasmine rice?
Yes, basmati rice is the best substitute for jasmine rice at a 1:1 ratio. The main differences are that basmati is less sticky, has firmer individual grains, and has a nuttier (rather than floral) aroma. Both are aromatic long-grain rices.
What is the difference between jasmine and basmati rice?
Jasmine rice is softer, slightly sticky, and has a sweet floral aroma, making it ideal for Thai and Southeast Asian dishes. Basmati is firmer, with separate fluffy grains and a nutty aroma, preferred for Indian and Middle Eastern cuisine.
Can I substitute regular white rice for jasmine rice?
Yes, regular long-grain white rice can substitute for jasmine rice at a 1:1 ratio. The texture will be similar, but you'll miss the distinctive floral aroma. Adding a pandan leaf while cooking can approximate jasmine rice's fragrance.