Hanuman Extra Long brings exceptional grain length to your table without the premium price tag that usually accompanies such quality. These slender kernels stretch impressively during cooking, creating that visual drama you'd expect from far costlier varieties. The rice carries a clean, pure aroma—nothing overpowering, just that authentic basmati character that signals quality to anyone familiar with proper Indian rice. What sets Hanuman apart is its forgiving nature; it handles slight variations in cooking time or water ratios without turning sticky or mushy, making it brilliant for cooks still perfecting their technique. The 5kg pack hits that sweet spot between value and manageability, offering enough quantity for regular use without requiring dedicated bulk storage space.
This rice excels when you're feeding a crowd on a budget—think community events, large family gatherings, or those weeks when you're hosting relatives and cooking double portions daily. The extra-long grains make even simple preparations look impressive, so it's perfect for potluck contributions where presentation matters. It's also brilliant for experimenting with new biryani techniques; the forgiving nature means you can focus on mastering the spice layers and meat preparation without anxiety about ruining expensive rice. Home cooks transitioning from standard long-grain to proper basmati will appreciate how Hanuman delivers authentic results without punishing beginner mistakes.
Rinse under cold running water until cloudiness disappears—typically three rinses suffice. Soak for 25 minutes to maximize grain elongation, though 15 minutes works if you're pressed for time. Deploy a 1:1.9 ratio (one cup rice to 1.9 cups water) as your baseline. Bring to an aggressive boil, immediately reduce to the gentlest simmer possible, cover tightly, and maintain for 12 minutes without disturbing. Remove from heat and rest covered for 6 minutes—this resting period allows residual steam to finish the cooking process evenly. Fluff gently with a fork, working from the pot's edges toward the center to avoid breaking the elongated grains.
Transfer to an airtight container within a week of opening to preserve that characteristic aroma. A standard 5-litre container accommodates this quantity perfectly, eliminating the need for specialized storage solutions. Position in a cool, dark cupboard away from heat sources and aromatic ingredients like coffee or spices. The moderate 5kg size means you'll likely consume it within two to three months under normal usage, well within the optimal freshness window. Check occasionally for any moisture accumulation, particularly during humid periods, and wipe the container interior if needed before refilling.
Allergens: May contain traces of wheat, gluten-containing cereals, peanuts, sesame, soy, or mustard due to shared processing facilities.
Available for convenient UK delivery. Explore more options in our Basmati collection or browse Rice, Grains & Flour.