How to Cook Basmati Rice Recipe
How to Cook Basmati Rice Recipe
Discover the secret to crafting the perfect Basmati Rice with this step-by-step easy recipe on How to Cook Basmati Rice. In just 25 minutes, you'll unlock the key to achieving rice that's buttery, tender, fluffy, and infused with a delightful fragrance. This fail-safe stovetop method ensures your Basmati rice turns out flawlessly every time!
What Makes This Basmati Rice So Good?
Ever found yourself in the frustrating realm of failed rice attempts? We've all been there – rice too gummy, too undercooked, just consistently disappointing. But don't lose heart, because I have cracked the code of cooking Basmati Rice flawlessly and I'm here to help y'all.
When cooked to perfection, basmati rice is light + tender + wonderfully fluffy. Coupled with its delightful aroma, it effortlessly transforms into a versatile option, ideal as a simple and adaptable side that harmonizes with a wide array of dishes, or as a delightful foundation for your beloved saucy creations. I personally love to pair it with curries--My all-time faves are Spicy Coconut Curry Chicken Bowl, Vegan Coconut Chickpea Curry with Potatoes, and these oh-so-creamy Spicy Butter Chickpeas! It also goes beautifully with this Healthy Weeknight General Tso's Chicken and so much more!
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What Is Basmati Rice?
Basmati rice, originating in the Himalayas and Pakistan, brings forth a delightful nutty flavor and a fragrant essence that sets it apart. In Hindi, "Bas" translates to "aroma," and "mati" means "full of" – giving rise to the term "Basmati," or "full of aroma." Basmati rice boasts a delicate flavor, an enticing aroma, and slender grains. Properly prepared, it assumes a light, fluffy texture, steering clear of stickiness found in other rice varieties.
The secret to achieving rice perfection lies in your choice of a top-notch brand, preferably one imported from India or Pakistan. A personal favorite of mine is Whole Foods Organic Indian Basmati, whose long grains notably elongate during cooking. However, sticking to a variety hailing from Indian or Pakistani origins ensures fantastic results!
How to Cook Perfect Basmati Rice
With just a few easy steps, you'll master the art of creating perfectly fluffy basmati rice! But before we dive in, here's what you'll need for this basmati rice recipe:
Ingredients
- Organic Basmati Rice: Fragrant foundation.
- Water: Ensures fluffy rice texture.
- Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and flavor.
- Sea Salt: Enhances overall taste.
- Garlic Powder (optional): Infuses subtle aromatic notes.
RINSE + DRAIN RICE:
- In a large strainer, add the rice and wash thoroughly with cold water, at least 3-4 times and then drain any excess water.
TO COOK THE RICE:
- In a medium sized deep skillet or saucepan over medium-high heat, add the water and bring to a boil. Add in the rice and butter and reduce the heat to a simmer and cover it and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. NOTE: Add additional ¼ cup of water after awhile if the liquid dries out and the rice isn't tender and cooked through yet.
- Once the rice is cooked through + tender once tested, remove from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes to "rest".
- Fluff the rice with a fork and serve in your favorite meal.
- Bon Appetit!
Why You Will LOVE This Basmati Rice Recipe
- Consistently fluffy & tender results
- Irresistible + aromatic fragrance
- Ideal base for a variety of delicious saucy dishes!
- Meal prep friendly
- Customizable ---Experiment with different herbs + spices
Foods To Pair With Basmati Rice
Basmati rice's versatility makes it an excellent companion to a wide range of dishes from various cuisines.
Here are some foods and dishes that pair well with it:
Curries: A total no-brainer! The rice's fluffy texture complement rich and flavorful curries. Try my Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken or this Spicy Curry Pumpkin Soup with Chickpeas
Stews or Soups: Hearty stews and soups or anything deliciously saucy go perfectly with basmati for a comforting meal. Its texture and aroma enhance this Vegan Jamaican Stew Peas and this drool-worthy Braised Apple BBQ Ribs + Potatoes
Stir-Fries: The light and airy grains soak up the flavors of the stir-fry sauce perfectly, you could even try my Healthy Weeknight Shrimp Fried Rice with basmati rice instead!
Buddha Bowls: A creative way to enjoy Basmati rice as part of a balanced and customizable meal--If you are looking for inspiration try this Healthy Pesto Buddha Bowl or Easy Green Goddess Buffalo Chicken Bowl
Salads: You can use Basmati rice as a base for cold salads, mixing it with vegetables, herbs, and proteins for a satisfying meal.
Feel free to experiment with different combinations to find your favorite pairings!
Basmati Rice Recipe Q + A's
Leftovers can be stored in an air-tight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or stovetop when ready to serve.
Yes, you can freeze cooked rice. Portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers, and it can be stored for up to 6 months. Thaw and reheat as needed.
Rinsing the rice before cooking helps prevent sticking. Avoid overcooking and stirring the rice too much while it's cooking. Fluff the rice with a fork after cooking to separate the grains.
White Basmati rice has the bran and husk removed, resulting in its signature long, slender grains. Brown Basmati rice retains the bran and husk, making it nuttier has a longer cooking time.
Yes simply sub the butter for a vegan butter alternative or you can omit it completely.
Yes! Rinsing helps remove excess starch from the rice, which can make it less sticky when cooked. Keep in mind that not rinsing can lead to less fluffy, separate grains of rice in the final dish.
More Flavorful Recipes To Try Next
- Easy Weeknight Creamy Tuscan Ravioli
- Spicy Gochujang Chicken Tenders
- Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup
- Braised Steak Ragu with Pappardelle
- Creamy Tuscan Lobster Pasta
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If you tried this Basmati Rice or any other recipe on my website, please please leave a 🌟 star rating and let me know how you go in the 📝 comments below. I love hearing from you.
How to Cook Basmati Rice Recipe
Ingredients
RICE:
- 1 cup organic basmati rice, Indian or Pakistan
- 1 ½ cups water (Add another ¼ cup if needed)
- 2 Tbsps unsalted butter
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder, optional
Instructions
RINSE + DRAIN RICE:
- In a large strainer, add the rice and wash thoroughly with cold water, at least 3-4 times and then drain any excess water.
TO COOK THE RICE:
- In a medium sized deep skillet or saucepan over medium-high heat, add the water and bring to a boil. Add in the rice and butter and reduce the heat to a simmer and cover it and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. NOTE: Add additional ¼ cup of water after awhile if the liquid dries out and the rice isn't tender and cooked through yet.
- Once the rice is cooked through + tender once tested, remove from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes to "rest".
- Fluff the rice with a fork and serve in your favorite meal.
- Bon Appetit!
Tips & Tricks
Nutrition
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