The rice, as we see it.

Culture in our hands.

The Hungarian rice

Originating in Southeast Asia, rice is one of the oldest crops which has been cultivated for over 5000 years. It was first introduced to Hungary in the 15th century, most probably by the Turks.

According to research, European rice cultivation was first started by the Italians in the 18th century, and by the 1950s, Hungary was growing rice on 50,000 hectares, many times the area we have today. In recent years, this has fallen to only 2 980 hectares, although the climate is becoming increasingly suitable to cultivate rice.

Sun and water

Hungary lies on the northern frontier of rice production: the protection of the Carpathian mountains ensures a suitable climate. Growing rice needs a lot of sunshine and a layer of aquifer: features that can be found in the Great Hungarian Plain, in the areas surrounding Szarvas.

The rivers that provide water for the rice

The Tisza and Körös rivers and their tributaries provide a constant, abundant water supply for the rice fields, and the sunny, flat terrain of the lowlands is also perfect for the plant’s needs.

The importance of water

Unlike other crops, rice grows well in saline soil conditions. This is particularly useful as it can be grown in areas where no other crop can survive. The aquifer layer in these types soils prevents water from seeping away.

New wildlife in the rice fields

The marshy nature of the rice fields also has a major impact on biodiversity in the lowlands, attracting waterfowl and providing new opportunities for habitat for strictly protected species such as waders and herons.

“Growing, going in drought or monsoon,
mold or blight — what is the rice if not alive?”

Rice-Field Road at Dusk by Suji Kwock Kim

What do you need to know about rice?

Saline soil and a constant, abundant water supply from the Tisza and the Körös rivers provide excellent conditions for rice to grow.

Good rice is rich in fibre, vitamins and minerals.

It is low in heavy metals and contains essential amino acids.

It is gluten-free and hypoallergenic.

Rice is versatile and easy to use in the kitchen.

Rice is one of the most ancient crops, originating in Southeast Asia.

Hungary lies on the frontier of rice production.

Rich in beneficial fats: omega 3 and 6 fatty acids.

The marshy nature of rice paddies also has an impact on biodiversity: it attracts waterfowl and provides a safe home for specially protected species.

To produce rice, we need a suitable climate, plenty of sunshine and a waterproof layer of soil, conditions that can be found in the Great Hungarian Plain and around Szarvas.

“One grain of rice, infinite uses.”

Recipe book –
How to cook rice?

The first recipe book about rice:
9 basic rice cooking methods, recipes for savoury and sweet rice dishes.

The recipe album contains a worthy guide to the use of rice and rice products produced and processed by Valoryz.

The Valoryz recipe album (Hungarian):
1500 Ft (24 recipes, 39 pages, PDF format)

The recipe album is a free gift with the purchase of the following products:
– 3 rice products “boxes” (white rice, brown rice, rice flour or rice semolina)
– A selection of Ricely drinks for every day (8 bottles)
– Valoryz rice storage box