#types of basmati rice

[shri-lal-mahal-rice21]

Exploring the Multifaceted World of Rice: A Comprehensive Overview of Various Forms of Rice

Rice, scientifically called Oryza Sativa, is a staple food for more than half the population of the world. It has been used for a long time and is an integral component of food traditions from various civilizations. Although it may appear as something simple, it is available in diverse varieties, each with its distinctive characteristics, flavours and culinary uses. In this article, we'll begin a journey to discover the many facets of rice. We will explore the different varieties of rice that are featured on our tables and our palates.

1. Long-Grain Rice

Long-grain rice is among the most popular and well-known varieties of rice. It is distinguished by its slender and elongated grains that stay separated and soft after cooking. Long-grain rice is an incredibly flexible choice that works well with a wide array of recipes and is a common ingredient in various cuisines across the globe. Two of the most popular types of long-grain are Basmati and Jasmine rice.

1.1. Basmati Rice

Basmati rice is a delicious and aromatic type of long-grain rice that comes from the Indian subcontinent. It is famous for its distinctive nutty smell and delicate taste. This is attributed to its thin, long grains as well as a particular area of cultivation. Basmati rice is widely used in Indian Middle Eastern, in addition to Southeast Asian cuisine. It is a great companion to pilaf, biryani and curry.

1.2. Jasmine Rice

Jasmine rice also referred to in the form of Thai aromatic rice, is yet another long-grain rice that is known for its floral, subtle aroma as well as its slightly sticky consistency when it is cooked. Originating from Thailand, jasmine rice has become an extremely popular ingredient in Southeast Asian dishes, like sushi, stir-fries or coconut rice. The aroma and the fluffy, soft particles make it an absolute favourite for rice lovers.

2. Short-Grain Rice

Short-grain rice is distinguished by its round, plump grains that are comparatively shorter in length. It has higher levels of starch than the long-grain varieties, which makes it perfect for recipes that require a creamy or sticky texture. Short-grain rice is often utilized in sushi or risotto, as well as other food items.

2.1. Arborio Rice

Arborio rice, which is native to Italy, is the most well-known short-grain variety. It is commonly utilized in the making of risotto, which is a rich Italian rice-based dish. Arborio rice is able to take in liquid and then release the starch, which results in an extremely creamy consistency when cooked. Its versatility is applicable to desserts made of rice as well as desserts based on rice.

2.2. Sushi Rice

As its name implies, it is the ideal option to make sushi. It's a short-grain type that becomes sticky upon cooking and allows it to stay together and create the basis for sushi rolls. The vinegar flavouring that is used in sushi rice imparts it with a distinct flavour and texture that compliments the many ingredients that are used in sushi.

3. Medium-Grain Rice

Medium-grain rice is a mix of short-grain and long-grain rice in terms of length and the amount of starch. It has a delicate but slightly sticky texture after cooking, which makes it an ideal option for a variety of meals. Two popular types of rice with a medium-grain texture are Calrose and Arborio, which we have previously discussed.

3.1. Calrose Rice

Calrose rice can be described as a medium grain type that originated in California, USA. It is a favourite choice for meals such as sushi and rice bowls in American food. Calrose rice has a soft, firm texture and a slightly sweet taste that makes it a favourite with people who consume it.

4. Sticky Rice (Glutinous Rice)

Sticky rice, also referred to as glutinous, is a kind of rice with a very high amount of starch that is extremely sticky after cooking. Contrary to what it is called, the glutinous rice has no gluten. It is an essential ingredient in many Asian dishes and is utilized for sweet and savoury recipes.

4.1. Suman

The sticky rice can be used in the Philippines to make the traditional Filipino delicacy known as "suman." Suman is made up of glutinous, steamed rice that is cooked in coconut milk. It is then wrapped in banana leaves and steam-cooked to perfection. Suman can be served with a wide range of toppings, such as coconut, sugar and chocolate.

4.2. Thai Sticky Rice with Mango

The most well-known dessert made of sticky rice is Thai sticky rice, which is served with mango (Khao Niew Mamuang). This tasty treat is a combination of sweet and delicious sticky rice, ripe mango slices, and drizzles of coconut cream to create the most delicious mixture of tastes and textures.

5. Red Rice

It is a full-grain rice that has natural red or reddish-brown bran, husk as well as a germ layer. It is renowned for its rich, nutty taste, as well as its slightly chewy texture and a higher amount of nutrients when compared with white rice. Red rice is used in many cuisines and is typically utilized in salads, dishes for side dishes and pilafs.

5.1. Bhutanese Red Rice

Bhutanese red rice, which hails from Bhutan, which is located in the Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan, is a well-known kind that is made of red rice. Its taste profile distinguishes it and is an important source of satisfaction for Bhutanese food. Bhutanese red rice is utilized as a basis for various recipes, such as curries and stews.

5.2. Camargue Red Rice

Camargue red rice, which originates in the Camargue region in the southern part of France, is a different popular type of rice. It is a red variety. It is frequently utilized in Mediterranean or European food preparation, specifically in salads and other side dishes. The vibrant red colour of rice is visually appealing to a wide range of dishes.

6. Black Rice

It is also referred to as forbidden rice, an old grain that has a dark black or purple-black hue. It is renowned for its distinctive nutty taste, as well as its chewy texture and high nutritional value. It is high in antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, which makes it a beneficial addition to any healthy diet.

6.1. Chinese Black Rice

Chinese white rice is traditionally reserved for emperors due to its rareness and nutritional value. It is the most well-known type that is black. Once cooked, it takes on a deep red colour and has a slightly sweet and nutty flavour. It can be cooked in many dishes, including salads, stir-fries, desserts, and so on.

6.2. Thai Black Jasmine Rice

Thai white jasmine rice is a scented type of black rice that has an aroma of flowers similar to its white cousin. It is widely utilized in Thai dishes to make sweet and savoury dishes. The distinctive combination of flavour, aroma, and colour makes it a staple component in classic Thai desserts.

7. Wild Rice

Wild rice isn't actually rice, but it is the seed of aquatic grasses that are native to North America. It is renowned due to its chewy consistency and sweet taste. Wild rice is usually served as a side dish for stuffing, a side dish, or as in salads, soups, and other dishes.

7.1. Native American Wild Rice

Native American wild rice is the most traditional type of rice that has been grown and consumed by Indigenous people in North America for centuries. It is considered to be a sacred food that plays an important role in Native American cuisine. Native American wild rice has the flavour of smoky rich and is commonly utilized in casseroles and stews.

Conclusion

Rice is undoubtedly among the world's most flexible and widely adored grains. Its many forms, from the delicious Basmati to the spongy glutinous rice, provide many culinary options. Each variety of rice has its own distinct taste, texture and unique particularities to the dining table, enhancing the meals it's served. Suppose you're savouring an oozing bowl of creamy rice, tasting the aromatic flavours of jasmine rice or taking advantage of the health advantages of black rice. In that case, it's an essential ingredient that connects the gap between cultures and people with the love of a simple yet varied grain. When you're seated down for an exquisite dinner, pause to contemplate the vast world of rice and the numerous ways it can enrich our lives as well as our food.

[shrilalmahal1]

Health Benefits of Non-Basmati Rice

Rice is a staple food in many cultures worldwide, providing essential nutrients and energy for billions of people. While Basmati rice often steals the spotlight for its aroma and long grains, non-Basmati rice varieties have their own unique set of qualities, including numerous health benefits. Non-Basmati rice encompasses a wide range of varieties, from short-grain and medium-grain types to red, black, and brown rice. These varieties are not only versatile but also packed with nutrients that promote overall health and well-being. In this blog, we will delve into the health benefits of non-Basmati rice, emphasizing why it deserves a place in your diet.

1. Rich in Essential Nutrients

Non-Basmati rice varieties are often rich in essential nutrients, particularly in their unpolished or whole-grain forms. Brown non-Basmati rice, for instance, retains its bran and germ layers, which are packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Some key nutrients found in non-Basmati rice include:

Carbohydrates: A primary source of energy for the body.

Fiber: Promotes healthy digestion and helps prevent constipation.

Vitamins B1, B3, and B6: Essential for energy production, brain function, and maintaining healthy skin and muscles.

Magnesium: Supports muscle and nerve function and helps maintain a healthy immune system.

Iron: Aids in the production of hemoglobin, which is necessary for transporting oxygen in the blood.

Non-Basmati rice varieties, especially whole-grain types like brown or red rice, are more nutrient-dense than polished white rice.

2. Supports Digestive Health

Non-Basmati rice, particularly brown and red varieties, is high in dietary fiber. Fiber is crucial for maintaining a healthy digestive system. It adds bulk to the stool, making it easier to pass through the digestive tract and reducing the risk of constipation. Additionally, fiber acts as a prebiotic, promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. A healthy gut microbiome is essential for overall health, as it influences digestion, nutrient absorption, and even mental well-being.

Whole-grain non-Basmati rice also has a low glycemic index (GI), meaning it releases glucose into the bloodstream slowly. This helps prevent rapid spikes in blood sugar levels, making it a better choice for individuals with diabetes or those trying to manage their blood sugar.

3. Heart Health Benefits

Incorporating non-Basmati rice, particularly whole-grain varieties, into your diet can benefit heart health. The high fiber content in brown and red rice has been shown to help reduce cholesterol levels. Fiber binds to cholesterol in the digestive system and helps remove it from the body, preventing it from being absorbed into the bloodstream. Lower cholesterol levels are linked to a reduced risk of heart disease and stroke.

Additionally, non-Basmati rice is low in saturated fats, which can contribute to heart disease when consumed in excess. By replacing high-fat, processed foods with fiber-rich, whole-grain rice, you may lower your risk of cardiovascular issues and improve overall heart health.

4. Aids in Weight Management

Non-Basmati rice can be a valuable addition to a weight management plan. Whole-grain varieties like brown rice are more filling than refined white rice due to their higher fiber content. This means that consuming whole-grain non-Basmati rice can help you feel full for longer, reducing the likelihood of overeating or snacking on unhealthy foods between meals.

Furthermore, the complex carbohydrates in non-Basmati rice are digested more slowly, providing a steady release of energy and preventing sudden hunger pangs. This can be especially beneficial for those looking to control their calorie intake and maintain a healthy weight.

5. Supports Blood Sugar Control

Managing blood sugar levels is crucial for individuals with diabetes, and non-Basmati rice can play a role in achieving this. Brown and red non-Basmati rice varieties have a lower glycemic index compared to white rice, meaning they have a more gradual impact on blood sugar levels. This slow digestion helps prevent rapid spikes in blood glucose, which can be particularly harmful to those with type 2 diabetes.

The fiber in non-Basmati rice further aids in blood sugar control by slowing the absorption of glucose into the bloodstream. For this reason, non-Basmati rice can be a healthier option for individuals who need to manage their blood sugar levels or are at risk of developing diabetes.

6. High in Antioxidants

Some varieties of non-Basmati rice, such as red and black rice, are rich in antioxidants. These compounds help protect the body from oxidative stress, which can damage cells and contribute to aging and the development of chronic diseases. Anthocyanins, the pigments that give red and black rice their distinctive colors, are potent antioxidants with anti-inflammatory properties.

Consuming antioxidant-rich foods like non-Basmati rice can help reduce inflammation in the body, lower the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer, and support overall health and longevity.

7. Gluten-Free and Suitable for Celiac Disease

Non-Basmati rice is naturally gluten-free, making it an excellent choice for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. Unlike wheat-based products, non-Basmati rice does not contain gluten, a protein that can cause digestive issues and other symptoms in individuals with gluten intolerance. Rice is a versatile and safe carbohydrate source for those following a gluten-free diet, and it can be used in a variety of dishes, from pilafs to stir-fries.

8. Promotes Bone Health

Magnesium, found in significant quantities in non-Basmati rice, is essential for maintaining healthy bones. Along with calcium and vitamin D, magnesium supports bone density and helps prevent conditions like osteoporosis. Consuming magnesium-rich foods like non-Basmati rice can contribute to stronger bones and reduce the risk of fractures as you age.

Additionally, brown non-Basmati rice contains phosphorus, another important mineral for bone health. Phosphorus works in conjunction with calcium to maintain strong bones and teeth, making non-Basmati rice a beneficial addition to a bone-healthy diet.

9. Boosts Energy Levels

Carbohydrates are the body's primary source of energy, and non-Basmati rice provides a steady supply of complex carbohydrates that fuel physical and mental activity. The slow release of energy from whole-grain non-Basmati rice helps maintain consistent energy levels throughout the day, preventing the energy crashes that can occur after consuming simple sugars or refined grains.

For athletes or individuals with active lifestyles, non-Basmati rice can be a valuable source of energy that supports endurance and performance. Its balanced nutrient profile, including vitamins and minerals like iron, further aids in maintaining energy levels and preventing fatigue.

Conclusion

Non-Basmati rice is more than just a versatile ingredient in the kitchen; it is a nutritious food that offers numerous health benefits. From supporting digestive health and heart health to aiding in weight management and blood sugar control, non-Basmati rice varieties like brown, red, and black rice can contribute to overall well-being. Rich in essential nutrients, fiber, and antioxidants, non-Basmati rice is a valuable addition to any balanced diet, particularly in its whole-grain form.

Whether you're looking to improve your heart health, manage your weight, or simply enjoy a wholesome and satisfying meal, non-Basmati rice offers a range of health benefits that make it a great choice for daily consumption.

[doodledrag]

Instant Pot Khichdi This healthier version of the traditional vegetarian Indian dish, khichdi, features brown rice, dal, and mung beans. 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger root, 6 cups water, 1 cup brown basmati rice, 1.5 teaspoons cumin seeds, 8 tablespoons ghee divided, 1 shallot sliced, 1/4 cup split yellow dal, 1 teaspoon ground turmeric, 1 tablespoon goda masala, 1.5 teaspoons brown mustard seeds, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 cup whole green mung beans, 1 teaspoon ground black pepper

[itsnotpersonalnyc]

Instant Pot Khichdi This khichdi Instant Pot recipe is a healthier take on the classic vegetarian Indian dish starring dal, mung beans, and brown rice.

[sarnianightlive]

i’ll eat basmati rice with everything i don’t give a fuck

[theophagie-remade]

Basmati is so good basmati I love you

[soopiroth]

uhhh because i keep seeing agere meal topics that are so overwhelmingly American type cuisine, I wanna give a big shoutout to RICE!!!

i am the NUMBER ONE RICE FAN- okay maybe that's a lie. it's really hard to quan-ti-fy who's the real number one rice fan but I REALLY LIKE RICE!!! AND I LIKE MEAT WITH MY RICE! any kind of saucey barbecue goes SUPER DUPER GOOD with RICE!!! i like korean bbq... or filipino bbq...

and y'know what else rice goes with! fish!!! in sushi or with poke!!!

i even like rice with chicken like nuggets or tenders! or with chicken wings! this is widespread through a lotta asian cultures i think... not sure though! i know it's at least present in filipino culture!!!

OH I CAN'T FORGET CURRY! WHERE WOULD CURRY BE WITHOUT ITS GOOD FRIEND THE RICE IT GOES ON??? YUMMY... don't forget a good bread with it too, depending on the curry... hehehe

i LOVE rice! lovely staple grain.

my favorite varieties are basmati, jasmine, and... not necessarily a grown variety(?) but i like yellow rice too!!!

[theladyfae]

that's way more regular than i expected considering how the above confusion reads

COCO YOU DONT WASH RICE?

um no?? I just put it in a pot and pour hot water over it and turn the stove on?? is that not normal??

[thereignclub-trc]

Trader Joe's Grocery List:

- organic raspberries

- organic blueberries

- organic strawberries

- organic bananas

- 2-3 oranges

- kale

- romaine

- Persian cucumbers

- cherry tomatoes

- organic avocados

- tri-colored peppers

- shishito peppers

- organic green beans

- packaged lentils

- packaged beets

- organic tri-color carrots

- organic cilantro

- parsley

- lemons & limes

- sweet potatoes

- reg potatoes

- yellow onion

- garlic

- shallots

- raw walnuts halves & pieces

- raw pine nuts

- ravioli (2 diff types)

- frozen peas

- frozen spinach

- frozen berry mix

- Greek yogurt - low fat plain

- Israeli couscous

- organic black beans (canned)

- organic chickpeas (canned)

- kidney beans (canned)

- vegan kale pesto

- extra lean ground beef

- canned tomatoe

- masala sauce

- naan

- basmati rice

- frozen kibbeh

[kentosdoll]

⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ 𝑁𝑎𝑛𝑎𝑚𝑖𝑛 headcanons .ᐟ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ kento x swana gn!reader

content: fluff, non-specific relationship (it can be platonic or romantic) wc: 421

a/n: this is very self-indulgent, though, i tried my best to make it inclusive of all swana folk; hence it's rather general. for those who aren’t aware, swana stands for south west asia and north africa. it’s a more progressive term compared to “middle east”, the latter being rooted in orientalism.

banner credits:⠀@/dollienini + @/chilumitos

Fights over which type of rice is better — jasmine or basmati. He insists it's jasmine as it’s easier to cook and softer. You retort, claiming it's basmati as it tastes better with curry and stews than jasmine rice.

Introducing Kento to classic artists like Fairuz, Samira Tawfik, Sabah, and Warda (Al-Jazairia). Sometimes you catch him listening to these artists in his spare time whilst sitting at his home desk. Fingers tapping at the wooden table rhythmically whilst trying to mouth the lyrics.

Kento questions why you get onto your hands and knees, Cinderella-style, with an old t-shirt to mop the tiles. After seeing you do this once, he buys you an actual mop so you never have to bend over (or cause injury to your back).

Slowly building up his tolerance to the sweetness of SWANA desserts. He’s not used to it due to Japanese desserts being subtly sweet. Zalabia is the ultimate final dessert boss. However, his friend Satoru happily gobbles those up whenever he pops by your place for afternoon tea.

Teaching him words, phrases, and idioms in your native tongue or second language. Whilst he had trouble with certain letters or digraphs, you bet he randomly uses certain words around you, even occasionally saying them around his friends and colleagues who have no idea what he’s talking about.

One day, you give him a rundown of your family tree before taking him to his first family gathering. It’s all a bit confusing with everyone being your “cousin”, “aunt”, or “uncle”. Some of these people aren’t even related to you; they’re either your grandparents’ cousins or friends of the family from the homeland.

There’s a social gathering (or wedding) coming up soon, and he's your plus one, so you have to teach him how to dance. The poor man is stiff as a wooden board with two left feet. It takes a while for him to learn [insert dance name], let alone loosen his shoulders, but once he's on the dancefloor, he won't leave.

You best believe this man doesn't understand superstitions and why people still follow them. One day you chastise him for dropping silverware, explaining that now there would be a guest at the door of your apartment. There, in fact, was a guest; it was Satoru.

As Kento learns more from you, he soon understands there is more to the SWANA region, unlike what the world and media have taught him. It gives him a deeper appreciation of your culture and helps him rethink unintentional biases.

© 𝑘𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑜𝑠𝑑𝑜𝑙𝑙⠀ ─⠀ all rights reserved. seek inspiration, do not copy, translate, or redistribute my writing/content.⠀₊˚ෆ

[100493503004422]

ever get confused by the choices at the grocery

u: confused & disoriented in the aisle of a whole foods, stumbling around because there are too many types of rice. long grain. short grain. white. brown. basmati. jasmine. arborio. sushi. wild. calrose. you're crying now as the grains come at you. red quinoa. white quinoa. farro. amaranth. barley. freekeh. millet. fonio. teff. surely these can't all be real products, some of them must have been made up to trick you. you look for something normal to ground yourself, but the next thing you see is something so bewildering it brings you to your knees: fake rice made out of vegetables. it's too much; they've gone too far. it's an abomination. you start screaming and you can't stop. other shoppers try to soothe you, but it's no use. you're inconsolable. the whole foods employees are forced to tase you (as per standard protocol under amazon). you go limp & are carried off. but don't worry, you're safe now. the grocery store can't hurt you anymore.

[oysters-aint-for-me]

i’m sooo hungry i want a big fuck-off sandawich. with turkey and bacon and lettuce and tomato and cheddar cheese and mayo and honey mustard and crumbled up potato chips and avocado mash and red onion on toasted marble rye. or a loaded omelette with green pepper and red pepper and yellow pepper and cheese and broccoli and mushrooms and bacon. oh fuck or a stir fry with broccoli and mushrooms and basmati rice and teriyaki sauce and and onions and tofu crumbles fried up all nice and brown. i’d even go for a humble baked potato with melted cheddar, sour cream, chives, and bacon bits. GOD i’m hungry. maybe i should go get lunch or something. hnnng i just typed lunch and one of the emoji suggestions was the falafel in the pita pocket and now i want THAT. unfortunately there is cat on my lap so alas i am stuck with fantasy….

[monsterqueers]

What is the most delicious type of rice and why is it basmati

[shitposthalf]

Hey, here's a little one pot rice cooker recipe that is really tasty and makes for an easy meal.

I'll show you the version I make first, then put explanations and variations under the cut.

Serves 1-2, depending on portion size

Ingredients:

-1/2 Cup Jasmine Rice -About 1 cup vegetable stock (I used homemade) -Approx 1 tablespoon soy sauce -Approx 2 teaspoons mirin seasoning -1 diced carrot (about a 1/2 cup) -Diced celery (about a 1/2 cup) -Frozen Peas (about a 1/2 cup) -Frozen Corn (about a 1/2 cup) -Diced bacon (add to hearts desire) -Shredded dried seaweed (add to hearts desire, mind amount based on how salty the stock, bacon, and soy sauce are) -Minced garlic (use to hearts desire, I used jarred)

Method:

Put 1/2 cup rice in rice cooker, rinse or not idc

Add in rest of ingredients. I like to add the liquids first then the dry ingredients

Cook in rice cooker with lid on (except for stirring occasionally to prevent sticking/burning) until rice has absorbed the stock, the carrots are soft, and the bacon is hot.

Enjoy. Explanation and variations under the cut.

Explanations/FAQ/Variations I guess?

Q. Why use so much stock? A. The general ratio of cooking jasmine rice with water is 1:1.5. Meaning 1 cup of rice cooks with 1.5 cups of water. Ergo, half a cup rice needs 3/4 of a cup of water. The additional quarter cup of water is used to cook the rest of the ingredients. If I was using fresh peas/corn, I would probably add a bit more water.

Q. What can I use instead of these vegetables? A. Literally add whatever vegetables you want. You'll just have to adjust water content depending on what they are/how many vegetables you add. I recommend frozen veg, as non-frozen veg requires cutting up into small pieces so they cook through properly. But most frozen veg is pre-cut/already the right size.

This recipe uses about 2 cups of vegetables in it. That's about 4 serves of vegetables. So like, generally 2 cups veg total should be good. I dunno.

As for recommended vegetables? I dunno, I like broccoli so I'm planning on making it with broccoli in the future. Maybe cut up tomato?

Q. Its too salty? Why!? A. I used fresh stock, which has less salt in it than stock powders and bottles of stock. Either water your stock down, use less powder, or adjust your salty ingredients (such as soy sauce, seaweed, and bacon)

Q. What other meats/proteins can I use? A. I would recommend pre-cooked meat, as I don't believe the time in the cooker is long enough to cook through most meat unless cut very small. So I recommend meats such as ham, salami, bacon (although err on the side of caution with bacon!), pre-cooked chicken, etc.

If using pre-cooked meats (instead of cured), maybe add them in near the end so they don't dry out as much. Idk though, experiment with it!

Also, tofu would be tasty in it. Using firm: cut into cubes. Using silken, maybe stir in near the end.

Q. Do I have to use vegetable stock? A. No, you don't. Use whatever stock you want, just know different stocks will have different levels of salt, so you might have to adjust the recipe based on that.

Q. Do I have to use soy sauce + mirin? A. I mean, no. But I would recommend seasoning it in some other way, otherwise it'll probably be boring. At that point it won't be this recipe any more though.

Q. Do I have to use jasmine rice? A. No, could use any other rice. Again, will have to adjust water content depending on the type though. If you used basmati you could probably get away with using the same amount of water.

Q. Why share this recipe? A. It's the only hot meal I've had the energy to make the past 2 days. It has a good flavour, good amount of protein, carbs, nutrients, and veg. So like. It works. And it's quick + low on washing up (especially if you don't have to cut anything)

[jungle-angel]

Any Friend of Mine (Rhett Abbott x Reader)

Summary: Sometimes a friend just needs to bitch about life

The snow was falling lightly outside as Rhett watched from the kitchen window, the smell of spicy chicken and basmati rice cooking away in the crockpot next to the stove. The tail end of February always bothered him for some reason. Maybe it was the long drag into March or how winter blues always set in too early. 

Through the softly falling snow, he saw two forms coming over the hill, a tall man in a white cowboy hat holding a toddler on his hip, the little one all bundled up in his little black Carhardt jacket. 

Billy and his little boy, Colt. 

“Hey darlin? Is the door unlocked?” 

“Yeah why?” you asked, poking your head up from where you had been sitting on the living room couch. 

“Billy’s here with Colt.” 

“Well, let’em in,” you told him. “I’ll get Diesel out of the way.” 

You whistled and the big Rottweiler came barreling down the stairs like the bulls Rhett had been accustomed to riding, jumping up onto the couch with you as Rhett opened the door for Billy to come in. 

“Ya’ll should’ve rode up here,” Rhett told him. 

“I know, I know,” Billy told him, setting Colt down on the floor. “I just......I’m havin a rough day, that’s all.” 

Rhett scratched the back of his head. If Billy Tillerson was having a rough day then it was definitely, in every sense of the word, a rough day. 

All of a sudden, a painful, wet, hacking cough erupted from Colt who had begun to turn red in the face. “Ya’ll got anything for this?” Billy asked. 

Rhett nodded and immediately went upstairs when Tatum and Tanner came barreling downstairs to play with their best friend. Rhett opened up the medicine cabinet and found a little red box with Colt’s name written on a piece of masking tape. As soon as he could, Rhett brought it right down to Billy who shook it and gave the three year old a few puffs of the medicine. 

“That poor kid sounds like he escaped a TB ward at the hospital,” Rhett remarked. 

“Pisses me off,” Billy practically spat. “Wayne’s S-M-O-K-I-N-G is just makin it worse.” 

“Is that what all this is about?” 

“I’ll tell ya’ll once he goes and plays,” Billy answered. “(Y/n), any chance we could stay for dinner?” 

You shrugged, letting Diesel off the couch. “I don’t see why not,” you told him. 

You and Rhett cast each other a knowing nod before he retreated into the kitchen, grabbing a beer out of the fridge, one for him and one for Billy. 

“Alright,” Rhett said as he sat down next to Billy. “Ya’ll come traipsing up here in the snow with the baby. What’s goin on?” 

“Everything all at once,” Billy sighed, running a hand through his hair. “I gotta get outta the house if it’s the last thing we do. Wayne’s pissing me off and so ain’t Trevor.” 

“What’d he do now?” Rhett asked him. 

“Both of’em makin remarks about my wife and son,” Billy croaked. “I just.....I wanna fuckin punch both of’em so fuckin bad.” 

Rhett felt horrible for him. He hated that Billy was going through such a thing but there wasn’t much anyone could really do. And yet.....

“Bill?” 

“Hmm?” 

“Don’t hate me for what I’m about to do, but....” 

Rhett pulled a piece of folded up paper from his back pocket and slid it across the table towards Billy. Billy unfolded it, his eyes glazing over the words typed neatly across the paper before they nearly popped out of his skull. 

“Is this...?” 

“The deed to your own land,” Rhett chuckled. “(Y/n) and I saw that piece of land while we were bringing the kids home the other day and thought you and Shania might need it more than us.” 

Billy could’ve cried but it would’ve been embarrassing beyond all words. “I don’t.....” he stammered. “I don’t know what to say. We’ve had our eyes on that place for months and....” 

“Now ya’ll can finally build what you need,” Rhett told him. “Hopefully with your own place Colt can breathe again.” 

Billy quickly wiped away a tear that threatened to fall from his eyes. “Thank you,” he half whispered. “You and (y/n), both.” 

Rhett turned his head and saw you standing in the doorway with a bit of a cheeky grin on your face, him smiling right back at you. No matter what your families may have gone through in the past, differences or no differences, you were as tight as ever and hoped to be for the rest of your days. 

[albertserra]

Pilau rice isn’t a type of rice it’s a rice dish… made with… basmati rice…