Rice is a staple food for more than half of the world’s population and is one of the most widely consumed cereal grains. It is the edible seed of the grass species Oryza sativa (Asian rice) or Oryza glaberrima (African rice), and it comes in many varieties, including long-grain, short-grain, basmati, jasmine, and arborio. Rich in carbohydrates, rice is a primary source of energy and is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for a wide range of diets. It can be prepared in numerous ways—boiled, steamed, fried, or baked—and is a key ingredient in countless dishes across cultures, from Asian stir-fries and Indian biryanis to Italian risottos and Latin American rice and beans.
