How to cook fluffy Basmati Rice perfectly every time
Safira
How to cook fluffy Basmati Rice perfectly every time - Here is how to make Authentic, aromatic Basmati rice that is tender, light and fluffy. We use double the amount water to rice in this easy foolproof method. Here is how you can cook Basmati Rice perfectly every time!
Cuisine Bangladeshi, Indian, Pakistani, South Asian
Servings 4
Calories 370kcal
Ingredients
2cupsBasmati Rice
1tablespoonGheeOptional
4cupsWater1 l
2teaspoonSalt
Instructions
Rinse the rice in a fine mesh strainer over running cold tap water until the the water is no longer cloudy.
Soak the rice in 1 inch of cold tap water. Let the rice soak for 30 minutes. Discard the water, rinse the rice once more, and drain well.
Heat the ghee in a medium pot over medium heat. Add the Water and Salt, then stir in the Rice.
Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Some of the water should have evaporated. Reduce to a simmer the cover with a tight fitting lid. Leave it to cook until all the excess water evaporates, about 10 to 15 minutes.NOTE - Do not open the lid and stir the rice during cooking.
Remove from the heat and keep the rice covered for 5 minutes. Then open the lid to reveal perfectly fluffy rice!
When ready to serve, fluff the rice with a fork and enjoy!
Notes
Variations
WaterYou can also use boiled Water which will reduce cooking time. The pre boiled water will need to come back to the boil once it goes into the cold cooking pot.Flavour the RiceAdd Cumin Seeds and Whole Spices such as Cinnamon Stick, Cardamom Pods, Cloves to the Ghee before cooking. Once fragrant, continue with the recipe. You could also add some fried Onions on top.Add VegAdd mixed chopped vegetables to make a Veg Pulao.
Tips and Tricks for making Basmati Rice
Tight fitting lidInitially the Rice should be boiled without a lid. Then the pot must be covered with a tight, heavy lid in order to steam the rice properly. Pot SizeThe pot needs to have enough space to fit in the rice, the water and the expansion of the rice grains when cooked. Don’t be tempted to peek Once the lid is on, leave the rice to cook so no steam escapes.Leave the rice to restIt will continue to absorb any remaining liquid.Larger batches will need longer to cook (but just a minute or 2)e.g.15 minutes for 4 cups is standard.
Storing and Reheating White Basmati Rice
Cooked basmati Rice keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
How to reheat fluffy Basmati rice
Add a splash of Water and cook covered on low heat on the stove or place in the Microwave.
How to freeze Basmati Rice
Basmati rice can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, place in the microwave with a tablespoon of water and make sure the rice is piping hot all the way through before serving.
No.Basmati rice is a long grain, slender, aromatic rice that is fluffy once cooked. This tender rice has a nutty aroma and the grains are seperate when cooked.White rice from the supermarket is usually short-grain rice.
Is Basmati Rice healthier than white rice?
Basmati is considered a healthy super grain. It contains all 8 essential amino acids and is high in Fibre. It has no cholesterol, is low in sodium and has a low to medium glycemic index meaning energy is released at a steady rate throughout the day once consumed. However the differences between basmati Rice, White Rice and Brown rice are minute.
Does Rice need to be washed before cooking?
Yes it does. Often you will find that it has some grit in it. This process also helps to get rid of excess starch meaning you won’t get gummy or mushy rice.
Does Rice need to be soaked before cooking?
I know many people don’t soak rice before cooking and if I am in a rush, neither do i. In my experience, soaking basmati Rice yields better results. The rice cooks more evenly, it shortens cooking time and the rice becomes more fluffy too.
Can you freeze Basmati Rice?
Yes you can! Simply, cool the rice completely then store in an airtight container in the fire for up to 3 months.
What is Basmati Rice used for?
Basmati rice is used in many dishes such as Pulao, Biryani or recipes from the Middle East such as Mandi.