Home / Rice know-howRice 101 · The Chand kitchen guide

Choose well.
Cook with confidence.

A simple guide to Pakistani rice types, cooking habits and the questions we hear most often.

The rice on your table

Each grain has its own character. Basmati brings aroma and length; sella and steam formats are designed for separate grains; brown rice keeps its bran layer; broken rice cooks softly and economically.

Rice typeWhat to expectBest in Pakistani cooking
BasmatiLong, slender grains with a naturally aromatic profile and a light, separate finish.Biryani, yakhni pulao, zarda and dawat rice.
1121 SellaParboiled, extra-long grains with firm texture and strong expansion.Large biryani pots, catering and restaurants.
1121 SteamSteam-processed, bright-looking grains that stay long and separate.Pulao, festive rice and everyday biryani.
Long grain whiteClean, mild and versatile with a light texture.Curries, fried rice and everyday plates.
Brown basmatiBran layer retained for a nuttier flavour and firmer bite.Balanced meals, salads and fitness-focused plates.
Tota / broken riceSmaller grains that soften quickly and give economical comfort.Khichri, kheer, porridge and soft rice dishes.
Jasmine-styleDelicate fragrance with a softer, gently clinging texture.Steamed rice and Asian-inspired meals.

How to cook beautiful rice

  1. Rinse with purpose

    Rinse gently until the water is clearer. This removes loose surface starch and helps the grains cook more separately.

  2. Soak when the pack or recipe calls for it

    Long-grain basmati often benefits from a short soak. Use the final Chand pack instructions for the exact timing and water ratio.

  3. Salt the water

    Seasoning the cooking water gives plain rice a more balanced taste. For biryani, the rice water should taste pleasantly seasoned before the rice goes in.

  4. Give the grains room

    Choose a pot that leaves space for expansion. Avoid stirring repeatedly; it can break grains and release more starch.

  5. Rest before fluffing

    After the water is absorbed, keep the lid on for a short rest. Lift the rice gently with a fork or flat spoon.

Pack instructions come first

Water ratios and cooking times vary by variety, processing, age, pot and heat. Treat the instructions on the approved Chand pack as the final reference.

Which Chand rice is right for you?

Make every grain count

Plan your portions, use leftovers in another meal and keep cooked rice chilled promptly. The Food Standards Agency advises cooling cooked dishes quickly and placing them in the fridge within two hours, then reheating leftovers until steaming hot. Read the guidance ↗

01

Portion

Cook what your table needs, with a little extra for lunch if you plan for it.

02

Cool quickly

Spread or portion cooked rice so it cools faster, then refrigerate promptly.

03

Reheat once

Heat until steaming hot throughout and only reheat what you are about to eat.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between sella and steam rice?

Both are processed formats. Sella is parboiled, while steam rice is steam-processed. Texture, colour and cooking performance depend on the variety and mill specification.

Do I need to wash basmati rice?

Rinsing is a useful cooking step because it removes loose surface starch. Rinse gently so you do not break the grains.

Why did my rice become sticky?

Common causes include excess water, insufficient rinsing, vigorous stirring, overcrowding the pot or skipping the resting step. Use the approved pack instructions for your variety.

How should I store an unopened pack?

Keep it sealed in a cool, dry place away from moisture, heat and strong odours. Once opened, use a clean, dry scoop and reseal the pack.

Can I order Chand products for export?

Yes. Share the product, pack format, quantity, destination and required documentation through our buyer enquiry flow. We confirm specifications and availability case by case.