How to Cook Basmati Rice in the Microwave
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How to Cook Basmati Rice in the Microwave
Description
How to Cook Basmati Rice in the Microwave outlines a specific technique for preparing basmati rice with standard kitchen equipment. Key ingredients include the dry rice, water in a 1:1.5 ratio, olive oil for richness, and optional bay leaves for aroma. The recipe suggests soaking the rice first to elongate the grains but notes this step is optional. After rinsing, the rice is combined with water, oil, and seasoning in a microwave-safe bowl. It cooks covered at a reduced microwave power level to allow even steaming, then finishes uncovered at full power to dry out excess water.
The rice result should have distinct, separate grains with a tender texture, typical of well-cooked basmati. The olive oil or ghee contributes a gentle mouthfeel and slight flavor enhancement, while the bay leaves impart a subtle herbal note if included. The instructions provide guidance for timing and power levels specific to an average 900-watt microwave, recognizing that cook times may vary with different models.
This recipe works well as a side dish base for various cuisines and can be prepared ahead and refrigerated for a few days. Adding a splash of water when reheating helps refresh the texture. Overall, it offers a reliable way to prepare basmati rice without a stovetop, particularly useful for small batches or quick meal prep.
Practical notes include the caution that cooking times should be adjusted carefully when making larger quantities by extending the covered cooking time incrementally, as microwave heating does not scale linearly. Leftover rice keeps well under refrigeration for up to four days and reheats best sealed to retain moisture.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups basmati rice dry
- 2 ¼ cups water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or ghee, or butter
- ½ teaspoon salt sea salt
- 2 bay leaves optional
Instructions
- Optional but recommended: Soak rice in water for at least 20 minutes before cooking. (Soaking helps to elongate the rice-- Skip if you don't have time.)
- Rinse rice in a mesh sieve.
- Add rice, water, oil, and bay leaves to a large microwave-safe bowl. Cover bowl with lid.
- Microwave covered at 60% power for 12 minutes.* (See Recipe Notes). Remove the lid, and cook uncovered on 100% power for 6 minutes. Serve as a side dish, refrigerating or freezing leftover rice.
- Leftovers:This rice is best served immediately, but can be kept refrigerated in a sealed container for up to 4 days. To reheat, add about a tablespoon of water, and microwave covered until warm (2-3 minutes).
Notes
- Soaking basmati rice before cooking helps elongate the grains but can be skipped if short on time.
- Microwave cooking times may need adjustment depending on your microwave's wattage and power settings.
- To prepare larger batches, lengthen the covered cooking time by about 3 minutes for each additional half cup of dry rice.
- Store leftover cooked rice in a sealed container in the refrigerator up to four days, reheating with a splash of water to restore moisture.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4people
Amount Per Serving
Calories 284 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 284kcal | 14% |
| Carbohydrates | 55g | 18% |
| Protein | 4g | 8% |
| Fat | 3g | 5% |
| Sodium | 301mg | 13% |
| Potassium | 79mg | 2% |
| Calcium | 24mg | 2% |
| Iron | 0.6mg | 3% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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