How to Cook Basmati Rice

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5

34 reviews
Excellent

How to Cook Basmati Rice

This recipe details how to cook basmati rice to achieve fluffy, separated grains with a subtle aroma. After rinsing to remove surface starch, the rice is simmered with salt and water, then covered and steamed off heat to absorb moisture and finish cooking without becoming sticky. Fluffing with a fork results in light, tender rice for serving.

Description

Cooking basmati rice in this method begins by thoroughly rinsing the grains under cold water to remove excess starch, which helps prevent clumping during cooking. The rice is then simmered in salted water over medium-high heat and stirred gently to distribute it evenly in the pot. Once boiling, the heat is reduced to low, the pot is tightly covered, and the rice cooks undisturbed to maintain moisture and separate grains.

After 18 minutes of covered cooking and a subsequent 5-minute resting period off heat, the rice finishes absorbing water through steam, firmly setting the grains without sticking. Fluffing the rice with a fork before serving separates the kernels, resulting in a fluffy texture that pairs well with a variety of dishes, from curries to stir-fries.

The recipe can be easily adjusted for quantity, and leftovers keep well in an airtight container refrigerated for up to five days, making it practical for meal prep or multiple meals.

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Ingredients

Servings
  • 1 cup basmati rice
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 ¾ cup water

Instructions

  1. Measure the rice into a cup and level the top.
  2. Rinse the rice in a fine mesh sieve thoroughly in cold water until the water runs clear.
  3. Transfer the rice into a saucepan over medium-high heat. Sprinkle with salt, then add the water and bring to a simmer uncovered, about 5 minutes.
  4. Using a wooden spoon, stir the rice in the pan to evenly distribute it, but don’t over stir.
  5. Lower the heat to low, cover with a tight fitting lid and cook for 18 minutes without opening the lid. Then turn the heat off.
  6. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Allow the rice to rest for 5 minutes, without opening the lid, to absorb all the liquid and steam.
  7. Fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains, and serve.

Notes

  • Store cooked basmati rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days for freshness.

Nutrition Information

Show Details
Calories 169kcal (8%) Carbohydrates 37g (12%) Protein 3g (6%) Fat 1g (2%) Saturated Fat 1g (5%) Polyunsaturated Fat 1g (6%) Monounsaturated Fat 1g (5%) Sodium 298mg (12%) Potassium 53mg (1%) Fiber 1g (4%) Sugar 1g (2%) Calcium 16mg (2%) Iron 1mg (6%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 4cups

Amount Per Serving

Calories 169 kcal

% Daily Value*

Calories 169kcal 8%
Carbohydrates 37g 12%
Protein 3g 6%
Fat 1g 2%
Saturated Fat 1g 5%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1g 6%
Monounsaturated Fat 1g 5%
Sodium 298mg 12%
Potassium 53mg 1%
Fiber 1g 4%
Sugar 1g 2%
Calcium 16mg 2%
Iron 1mg 6%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

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