A Complete Guide to the Most Trusted Rice Brands in Pakistan

Guide to varieties of rice
Guide to varieties of rice

Whether it's the simplicity of daal chawal on a weekday or the rich aroma of wedding-style biryani filling the house on a festive occasion, rice is at the heart of countless Pakistani dishes.

But with so many rice varieties and brands available — both in grocery stores and online grocery apps like Bazaar — choosing the right one can be a tough decision. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the most trusted rice brands in Pakistan. 

Why Rice Quality Matters

Before we dive into the top brands, let’s talk about why rice quality is important. The type of rice you use can completely change the experience of a dish. Biryani, for example, depends on long, non-sticky grains that hold their shape. Fried rice needs slightly firm rice that doesn’t stick together. Even your daily boiled rice benefits from high-quality grains that cook evenly and taste great.

Good-quality rice also stretches further. It fluffs up nicely when cooked, is more aromatic, and doesn’t require a huge quantity to satisfy a meal. This is especially important when buying in bulk — something many Pakistani families prefer to do.

Top Rice Brands in Pakistan

Here’s a breakdown of some of the most reliable rice brands, known for their consistent quality and availability:

Guard Rice

Popular variant: Guard Super Kernel Basmati Rice

Best for: Biryani, Pulao, Formal Events

Guard is one of the oldest and most premium rice brands in Pakistan, known for its extra-long grain basmati rice. Their rice is aged, naturally aromatic, and yields fluffy, non-sticky results — perfect for dishes like wedding-style biryani or formal dinners. Guard Super Kernel Basmati is especially popular among home cooks who want restaurant-quality rice at home.

Why people love it:

  • Distinct aroma and flavour
  • Long, uniform grains that don’t clump
  • Available in multiple pack sizes (1kg to 10kg)

Pro tip: Soak Guard rice for 30 minutes before cooking to get the full length and texture.

Falak Brown Rice

Popular variants: Falak Brown Basmati

Best for: Healthy meals, Weight management, High-fibre diets

Falak Brown Rice is a great choice for health-conscious households in Pakistan. It’s minimally processed to retain the bran layer, making it richer in fiber and nutrients compared to white rice. With a nutty flavour and chewy texture, it’s ideal for those looking to make a healthier switch without compromising on quality.

Why people love it:

  • High in fibre and whole grain goodness
  • Ideal for diabetic- and heart-friendly diets
  • Clean packaging with clear cooking instructions
  • Available in convenient sizes for families and individuals

Bonus: Pairs well with daals, curries, or as a base for wholesome rice bowls.

Mughal Rice

Popular variant: Mughal Super Kernel Basmati Rice

Best for: Biryani lovers on a budget

Mughal is a value-driven brand that doesn’t compromise on taste or grain quality. Their Super Kernel Basmati is a go-to choice for those who want long grains and rich aroma without the higher price tag of other premium options. It's especially suited for biryani, tahari, and zarda, thanks to its excellent water absorption and ability to stay fluffy.

Why people love it:

  • Affordable price point
  • Separate, long grains after cooking
  • Ideal for large families and gatherings

Storage tip: Keep in an airtight container to maintain the aroma.

Bazaar Select Premium Rice

Exclusive on: Bazaar App

Popular variant: Bazaar Select 1121 Basmati

Best for: Special occasions, bulk buying

Bazaar Select is a newer but fast-growing favourite, available exclusively on the Bazaar app. It offers 1121 Extra-Long Grain Basmati that’s aged for better aroma and texture. This rice is perfect for formal dishes where presentation matters — biryani, mutanjan, or even plain steamed rice.

Why people love it:

  • Premium look and feel at an affordable price
  • Aged for extra flavour and fluff
  • Direct-to-doorstep convenience via next-day delivery

Fun fact: Customers love its minimal breakage and consistency across batches.

Himalayan Chef Rice

Popular variant: Himalayan Chef Brown Rice

Best for: Health-conscious buyers, Diabetic-friendly meals

Himalayan Chef offers naturally grown rice products with a strong focus on health and purity. Their brown rice variety stands out as a whole-grain option, packed with fibre and nutrients. It’s a great choice for people seeking unprocessed rice with a more natural texture.

Why people love it:

  • Rich in nutrients, fiber, and minerals
  • No artificial additives or polishing
  • Ideal for fitness-conscious and diabetic diets

Note: Brown rice takes longer to cook but delivers a nutty taste and chewy texture.

Mehran Group Rice

Popular variant: Mehran Extra Long Grain Rice

Best for: Versatile cooking — biryani, plain rice, fried rice

Mehran Group offers a wide selection of rice types, with their Extra Long Grain Rice being one of the most popular. It’s well-suited for biryani but also performs excellently in daily cooking and special recipes due to its grain strength and aroma.

Why people love it:

  • Long-standing brand with international reach
  • Good balance of price and quality
  • Reliable for consistent cooking results

Sunridge Rice

Popular variant: Sunridge Long Grain Rice

Best for: Everyday daal chawal, family meals

Sunridge is a rising name in the Pakistani grocery market, known for its clean, affordable products. Their Long Grain Rice is ideal for everyday dishes and is particularly suited for families looking for budget-friendly yet tasty rice.

Why people love it:

  • Hygienically processed and locally sourced
  • Soft texture, perfect for daily meals
  • Great value for money

Tips for Choosing the Right Rice

When shopping for rice — whether at a physical grocery store or an online grocery store in Pakistan — here are a few things to consider:

Grain Type: Basmati rice is known for its long, slender, aromatic grains, perfect for biryani and pulao. Sela rice is parboiled, slightly firmer, and holds its shape well, making it ideal for large gatherings or commercial cooking. Brown rice, while less commonly used in Pakistan, offers a more fibrous, chewy texture and is popular among health-conscious consumers.

Packaging Date & Aging: Aged rice — especially aged basmati — develops a better aroma, fluffier texture, and more defined grains after cooking. Always check the packaging date to ensure you're getting a product that’s had time to mature.

Weight & Usage: Buying in bulk (like 5kg or 10kg packs) can help you save money, especially for families or regular rice eaters. Just be sure to store your rice in airtight containers to preserve its freshness and aroma.

Nutritional Considerations: Most basmati rice types have similar calorie and carbohydrate content. However, brown rice stands out for being higher in fiber, magnesium, and certain B vitamins, making it a more nutrient-dense option. For balanced meals, pair any rice variety with lentils, vegetables, or protein sources rather than relying on rice alone.

Cooking Time: White basmati and sela rice typically cook in 15–20 minutes. Pre-soaking can reduce cooking time and improve texture. Brown rice, on the other hand, is less processed and takes longer to cook — usually around 40–45 minutes. It also benefits greatly from soaking, which can soften the bran layer and lead to better results.

Shop Trusted Rice Brands on Bazaar

Want to skip the heavy bags and crowded aisles? Whether you're searching for premium biryani rice or an everyday affordable option, you can shop all your favourite rice brands on the Bazaar app.

With next-day delivery and low prices, Bazaar makes it easier than ever to buy quality rice and grocery items from the comfort of your home! Explore rice brands now on Bazaar.  

Frequently Asked Questions 

How many calories are in one plate of rice?

The number of calories in a plate of rice depends on both the type of rice and the portion size. On average, one cup of cooked white rice contains around 200 to 240 calories, while the same amount of brown rice contains slightly more — approximately 215 to 250 calories. That being said, brown rice has a lower glycemic index, therefore causes a lower spike in blood sugar. This makes it a much better option for those looking to manage their blood sugar. Moreover, if rice is cooked with oil, ghee, or meats (as in dishes like biryani or pulao), the calorie count can increase significantly.

How to boil rice perfectly every time?

Here's a foolproof method for boiling fluffy rice:

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup rice (white or brown)
  • 2 cups water (for white rice) or 2.5–3 cups (for brown rice)
  • ½ tsp salt (optional)

Steps:

  1. Rinse rice under cold water until water runs clear (removes excess starch).
  2. Add rice, water, and salt to a pot.
  3. Bring to a boil on medium-high heat.
  4. Once boiling, reduce to a simmer and cover tightly with a lid.
  5. Cook:
    • White rice: 15–20 minutes
    • Brown rice: 40–45 minutes
  6. Let it sit (covered) for 5–10 minutes after cooking, then fluff with a fork.

Optional: Add a drop of oil or ghee to prevent sticking.

What is the price of basmati rice in Pakistan?

The price of basmati rice in Pakistan varies based on brand, quality, and quantity. As of now:

  • Guard Basmati Rice (5kg): PKR 2,000 – PKR 2,500
  • Falak Super Basmati (5kg): PKR 2,200 – PKR 2,800
  • Unbranded/local basmati: PKR 180 – PKR 250 per kg

Prices may fluctuate depending on the market and region. You can explore discounted rates and bundle deals on Bazaar App, where top-quality rice is delivered to your doorstep with next-day service.