Rice With Italian Flair

Not surprisingly, Asia produces and consumes 90% of the world's rice. Nonetheless, with this backdrop, Italy has managed to carve itself its own niche in the rice market growing its own unique types. In the West, Italy (after the U.S.) is the main producer, exporter and consumer of rice. It produces and exports roughly two thirds of all rice in the EU.

As is usually the case with Italy, the nation produces world class equipment for rice while one of the world's top research institutes can be found at the Rice Center in Mortara.

Rice companies operate in the Po Valley in the North of Italy where there are no shortage of producers.

I have a sudden urge for risotto with tomato and basil.