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How to Cook Basmati Rice in the Microwave

Makes 4 sides of rice.Note: 18 minute cook-time does NOT include optional soak-time.

Prep Time
2 mins
Cook Time
2 mins
Total Time
18 mins
Servings: 4 people
Calories: 284 kcal
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Indian

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ cups dry basmati rice
  • 2 ¼ cups water
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil, ghee, OR butter
  • ½ teaspoon sea salt
  • 2 bay leaves (optional)

Instructions

    Cup of Yum
  1. 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.)
  2. Rinse rice in a mesh sieve. 
  3. Add rice, water, oil, and bay leaves to a large microwave-safe bowl.  Cover bowl with lid.
  4. 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.
  5. 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

  • *Keep in mind microwave cook times may vary depending on the microwave.  This recipe was tested on a 900-watt machine.
  • *Note: Microwave recipes do not always 'double' well.  To make larger batches, try increasing the cook-time by adding 3 minutes to the 'covered' cook-time for each ½ cup of rice added.

Nutrition Information

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%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 4people

Amount Per Serving

Calories 284

% 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.