How to Cook Basmati Rice

Treat your guests to a new flavor of rice.

Delight your guests with a new flavor by cooking basmati rice instead of your usual plain white rice. A type of aromatic rice that originates from India, basmati rice has an elongated grain and a unique flavor. It cooks in less time and with less effort than long grain white rice, and you won't need a rice cooker to get it right. The finished product looks slightly different than long grain rice, but it is unlikely your guests will know the difference until they taste the flavor -- which is sure to delight their senses.

Things You'll Need

• 1 lb. basmati rice
• Large bowl
• Medium sized pot with a tight-fitting lid
• 1 pt. of fresh water
• Pinch of salt
• Fork

Instructions

1. Wash the rice by pouring it into a large bowl, then filling it with cold tap water. Change the water several times, to remove any excess starch. The water will become clearer each time you change it. Once there is no more clouding, drain and fill the bowl with fresh water. Allow the rice to sit in the cold water for 30 minutes.

2. Drain the rice thoroughly, and place into a medium saucepan.

3. Add the cold water and salt.

4. Bring the water and rice to a boil over medium heat. Cover with the lid.

5. Reduce the heat to low, and let the rice continue cooking for 10 minutes. Do not stir the rice during the cooking phase. Leave the lid intact, and do not lift it to peek.

6. Turn off the heat, and leave the lid in place. Allow the rice to sit, still on the burner, with no heat applied for 5 more minutes.

7. Remove the lid, and verify that all the water has been absorbed by the rice.

8. Fluff with a fork, and serve immediately.

Tips & Warnings

• If you don't find Basmati rice in the rice aisle of your grocery store, check the international food section.

• Be sure to monitor the rice after 30 minutes of cooking. If you don't, you risk getting a layer of crunchy rice on the bottom of your pot. The rice can also go mushy.

References

• BBC Food Recipes: Perfect Basmati Rice; Jo Pratt
• All About India: How to Cook Basmati Rice
• WH Foods: What is the Difference Between Basmati Rice and Regular Rice

Resources

• Basmati Associates: Basmati Rice