1 kg cloth bag of Flor de Calasparra Bomba Calasparra rice (arroz), DO Calasparra, from the twon of Calasparra, Murcia.

The bomba variety is the jewel of Calasparra rice, an explosion of flavour.

Rice from Calasparra is one of the only three rice varieties with Designation of Origin (DO) in Spain, along with those from the Ebro Delta and Valencia. The Calasparra Designation of Origin was recognised in 1986, although rice cultivation in the area dates back to the 14th century. It is regulated by the Regulatory Council of the 'Calasparra' DO and covers the municipalities of Calasparra, Moratalla and Hellín (in Albacete).

The rice varieties used are 'Bomba' and 'Balilla × Sollana'. They require a greater quantity of water and a longer cooking time, so that the grain swells more and the other flavours are more impregnated. It is harvested between October and November, but it is eaten all year round.

The characteristics that make this rice special are as follows: It is a mountain crop, at an altitude of approximately 450 m. It is irrigated using a system of terraces that allows the water to be constantly renewed. The ripening of the grain takes 30% longer than other rice varieties.

When cooked, it is rarely overcooked and is much tastier.