Rices

Rices is an uncommon plural form of the grain rice in English. Rice is typically treated as an uncountable commodity, so the singular form is used in ordinary speech. The word “rices” sometimes appears in technical, historical, or culinary writing to refer to multiple varieties, samples, or shipments of rice, and may also occur in proper names or surnames.

Rice refers to the seed of grasses in the genus Oryza. The two most widely cultivated species are Oryza sativa (Asian rice) and Oryza glaberrima (African rice). Within O. sativa, major subspecies include indica and japonica. Archaeological and linguistic evidence points to domestication in Asia thousands of years ago, with cultivation spreading to many regions where climate and water availability allow wet-field farming.

Cultivation typically relies on flooded fields called paddies, which help control weeds and pests. Rice requires warm temperatures and abundant water during growth, though varieties differ in maturation time and water needs. Harvesting methods vary by region, and processing can include husking, milling, and polishing. Parboiled rice is partially boiled in its husk to retain nutrients, while brown rice remains unpolished and contains bran and germ.

Forms and varieties span a wide range. Grains are commonly categorized as long-, medium-, or short-grain. Aromatic varieties such as basmati and jasmine are prized for fragrance and texture. Processing yields white rice, brown rice, or other specialty products suited to different cuisines.

Uses and nutrition: Rice is a staple for billions, featuring primarily carbohydrates with varying amounts of protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It is naturally gluten-free and adaptable to numerous dishes—from sushi and paella to risotto and pilaf.

Production and environmental considerations: Major producers include China, India, Indonesia, Bangladesh, Vietnam, Thailand, and the United States. Rice cultivation raises concerns about water use and methane emissions, prompting research into sustainable management and yield improvements. As a surname, “Rices” appears in some English-language contexts, but this article focuses on the grain.