Basmati is a long-grain rice variety that was originally grown and cultivated in India and Pakistan. The rice is characterized by its flavor and aroma, which is very nutty, floral, and slightly spicy. Once cooked, the grains remain individual and don't stick to each other, which allows curry and similar stew and sauces to coat every grain.
The longer the grain, the better the rice, and the best basmati grains have a slightly golden hue. The name basmati means fragrant in Hindi, referring to its aromas and flavors. In India, the state of Haryana is the largest cultivation area, while in Pakistan, it's the Punjab province.