No-Fail Basmati Rice Recipe (two ways)
User Reviews
4.8
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Prep Time
5 mins
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Cook Time
15 mins
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Total Time
20 mins
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Servings
4 servings
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Calories
1999 kcal
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Course
Side Dish
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Cuisine
Asian, Middle Eastern
No-Fail Basmati Rice Recipe (two ways)
Description
The recipe starts by rinsing basmati rice several times to remove excess starch, helping produce a light, non-sticky texture. For the stovetop method, olive oil is heated before toasting the rice briefly, then water, salt, and optional spices are added. The pot is brought to a boil, covered, and simmered on low heat until the water is absorbed, leaving tender grains. After cooking, a resting period covered allows the rice to complete cooking and fluff up.
The rice cooker method involves combining rinsed rice, salt, oil, water, and optional aromatics directly in the cooker. The rice cooks automatically using the rice cooker’s settings, providing a convenient alternative.
The cardamom and bay leaves introduce a gentle warm scent and enhance the rice’s flavor without overpowering. This method produces richly fragrant, fluffy basmati rice suitable as a side dish for various meals.
Leftover rice should be cooled completely before storing tightly covered in the fridge, maintaining quality for 4 to 5 days.
Ingredients
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 1-2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 1/2 cups water
- kosher salt
- 3 cardamom pods optional, lightly crushed
- 2 bay leaves optional, dry
Instructions
- Put the rice in a bowl and rinse with cold water 4 to 5 times or until the water runs clear.
Basmati Rice Stovetop Method
- In a medium cooking pot or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. When the oil shimmers a bit, add the rice. Toss for a bit until the rice is well coated with the oil. Season with a good pinch of kosher salt.
- Add the water, and if using, add the cardamom pods and bay leaves.
- Bring the water to a boil. Turn the heat to low and cover the pot and leave it alone for 15 to 20 minutes. The rice will cook through and absorb all the water.
- Turn the heat off. Leave the rice covered and undisturbed for 5 more minutes. Remove the cardamom pods and bay leaves before you fluff the rice up with a fork and serve it.
Basmati Rice- Rice Cooker Method
- Put the rice in your rice cooker. Season with kosher salt and add the oil and water. Stir to combine. (you can add the cardamom pods or bay leaves, if using).
- Cover the rice cooker with the lid securely. Follow the rice cooker use safety instructions. If your cooker has several settings, select the normal (regular/sushi) setting and turn it on.
- When the rice is ready, allow it to sit in the rice cooker undisturbed for a few minutes longer before you fluff and serve it.
Notes
- Select good-quality basmati rice and rinse it thoroughly to achieve the best texture.
- For rice cookers, follow your appliance instructions for safety and optimal outcomes.
- Cool cooked rice completely before refrigerating in a sealed container to keep freshness up to 5 days.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 1999 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 199.9kcal | 10% |
| Carbohydrates | 37g | 12% |
| Protein | 3.3g | 7% |
| Fat | 3.8g | 6% |
| Saturated Fat | 0.6g | 3% |
| Sodium | 6.8mg | 0% |
| Potassium | 53.5mg | 1% |
| Fiber | 0.6g | 2% |
| Sugar | 0.1g | 0% |
| Vitamin A | 3.1IU | 0% |
| Vitamin C | 0.1mg | 0% |
| Calcium | 16.1mg | 2% |
| Iron | 0.4mg | 2% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
4.8
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