4.5 from 303 votes
Perfect Basmati Rice
Perfect Basmati Rice is a fluffy side dish achieved by rinsing rice to remove excess starch and gently simmering it with butter and salt until tender. This method produces separate, aromatic grains ideal for pairing with various dishes.
Prep Time
10 mins
Cook Time
15 mins
Total Time
25 mins
Servings:
4
Calories:
207 kcal
Course:
Side Dish
Cuisine:
Indian, American
Ingredients
- 1 cup basmati rice preferably imported from India or Pakistan
- 1¾ cups water
- 1½ tablespoons butter unsalted
- ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Place the rice in a fine mesh strainer. Place under cold running water, swishing the rice with your hand, for 1 to 2 minutes to release excess starch. (Alternatively, place the rice in a medium bowl and add enough water to cover by 2 inches. Using your hands, gently swish the grains to release any excess starch. Carefully pour off the water, leaving the rice in the bowl. Repeat four times, or until the water runs almost clear. Use a fine mesh strainer to drain the rice.)
- In a medium pot, bring the rice, water, butter, and salt to a boil. Cover the pot with a tight fitting lid, then turn the heat down to a simmer and cook for 15 to 20 minutes, until all of the water is absorbed and the rice is tender. If the rice is still too firm, add a few more tablespoons of water and continue cooking for a few minutes more. Remove the pan from the heat and allow it to sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork and serve.
Cup of Yum
Notes
- Freeze cooked rice in flat, airtight containers for up to three months.
- Reheat frozen rice in the microwave with added water; no need to thaw beforehand.
Nutrition Information
Calories
207kcal
(10%)
Carbohydrates
37g
(12%)
Protein
3g
(6%)
Fat
5g
(8%)
Saturated Fat
3g
(15%)
Cholesterol
11mg
(4%)
Sodium
120mg
(5%)
Fiber
1g
(4%)
Nutrition Facts
Serving: 4 Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 207
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 207kcal | 10% |
| Carbohydrates | 37g | 12% |
| Protein | 3g | 6% |
| Fat | 5g | 8% |
| Saturated Fat | 3g | 15% |
| Cholesterol | 11mg | 4% |
| Sodium | 120mg | 5% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.