Cultivating Flavourful Experiences With Mysore Mallige Rice

 Rice transplanting at the Hyderabad Collective 

Some rice is known for its elegant long grain. Some rice is known for its colour. While some for how it feels when consumed. This is where Mysore Mallige rice takes the cake!

Mysore Mallige rice, also known as Jasmine Paddy or Children’s Rice, is a premium variety renowned for its exceptional quality and unique characteristics. Named after the city of Mysore in Karnataka, India, this aromatic rice is highly prized for its exquisite fragrance, delicate taste and soft, fluffy texture, making it a standout choice in Indian cuisine.

The rice has an interesting origin story. It was popularised by Shri Lingamadaiah, a respected farmer and community leader in Karnataka. During an international seeds seminar in 1994, he received 10 grams of seeds from a farmer in the Philippines. Advised to cultivate these seeds organically, Lingamadaiah meticulously nurtured them, eventually producing a robust variety through careful selection and organic farming techniques. This process involved growing the seeds without pesticides, which kept the crop disease-free and enhanced its yield and recovery.

Over time, the demand for Mysore Mallige rice grew, and it became widely cultivated in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and parts of Andhra Pradesh. Today, Mysore Mallige rice covers 25-30% of the paddy growing area in the region, a testament to its popularity and success.

Mysore Mallige rice is ideally suited for organic and natural farming methods, such as the System of Rice Intensification (SRI). This method involves planting fewer seeds, using less water, and relying on organic inputs like farmyard manure, green manure, and tank silt. As a result, the rice is largely pest and disease-free, has a high yield, and requires minimal investment. At Beforest’s Hyderabad Collective, which is a ground for innovation in sustainable agriculture through permaculture farming, indigenous rice varieties, including the celebrated Mysore Mallige rice, are being grown in a food forest system completely chemical-free. Cultivating food here extends beyond mere consumption; it’s also about restoring the land and fostering a deeper connection with the soil. 

Health Benefits of Mysore Mallige Rice

Mysore Mallige rice is visually appealing with its slender, translucent grains that have a pearly white appearance. When cooked, the grains remain separate and fluffy, making it an excellent choice for various dishes, including biryanis, pulao, and steamed rice.

Nutritionally, Mysore Mallige rice is a rich source of carbohydrates, providing essential energy for the body. It is also low in fat and sodium, making it a healthy option for those mindful of their dietary intake. This rice variety is perfect for those who want to enjoy flavorful and aromatic rice without compromising on health benefits.

Its rich history, sustainable farming practices, and exceptional culinary qualities make it a valuable addition to any diet and give it a place in every kitchen. Whether you’re a culinary enthusiast looking to elevate your cooking or a food lover seeking a memorable dining experience, Bewild Mysore Mallige Rice is sure to impress.