Rankema Suwandal is a traditional Sri Lankan heirloom rice, sold in a 1 kg pack, grown organically by farmer communities who rely on centuries-old agricultural knowledge rather than chemical inputs. The name Suwandal comes from the Sinhala word for sweet fragrance, and it is precisely that quality — a warm, distinctive aroma that rises as the rice cooks — that makes this variety so recognisable to those familiar with Sri Lanka's culinary heritage.
The grain itself is short and round with a white pericarp, quite different in character from the long-grain varieties that dominate supermarket shelves. Suwandel is indigenous to Sri Lanka and has been cultivated for generations in the country's southern lowlands, traditionally using rain-fed methods that work with the land rather than against it. Rankema sources this rice from farming communities committed to preserving those practices, and the packaging carries both a 100% Organic declaration and a Non-GMO mark.
The cultivation follows traditional agricultural wisdom, and the rice is grown without harmful chemicals or chemical fertilisers — a commitment stated plainly on the pack. Rankema reviews its production process from seed to sealed bag to meet food safety and agricultural standards, which gives some reassurance about consistency across batches.
To cook Suwandal, use one cup of rice to two cups of water. Once cooked, the grain has a mild, almost creamy quality alongside its characteristic fragrance. Store any unused rice in a cool, dry place to maintain its condition. The 1 kg pack is a practical size for households wanting to keep this variety in regular rotation.
