Basmati rice has been cultivated for thousands of years in the foothills of the Himalayas. Today, itâ's a staple in many Indian dishes and is enjoyed all around the world. Basmati rice comes in two varieties, white and brown. Both have a nutty taste and a distinct smell. White basmati, however, is more processed. The hull, bran, and germ are all removed. With brown basmati, only the hull gets removed. Both types make for a delicious and healthy addition to your diet