47 minutes
A simple and traditional method to cook fluffy basmati rice using the absorption method.
Basmati Rice, rinsed until water is clear
cups
to taste
cups
tablespoons
1. Wash and Soak the Rice
Start by washing the basmati rice thoroughly. Place the rice in a bowl and cover it with water. Gently swish the grains around with your hand to remove excess starch. Drain the water using a strainer and repeat this process until the water runs clear. Clean rice is key to preventing it from becoming sticky, so take your time with this step. Once the rice is clean, transfer it into a heavy saucepan and add a pinch of salt.
2. Soak the Rice
Add 2 cups of water to the saucepan with the rice and let it soak for 30 minutes. This soaking period helps the rice absorb water evenly, ensuring it cooks uniformly.
3. Begin Cooking the Rice
After the soaking time, add 1 tablespoon of butter to the saucepan. Place the pan over medium-high heat and bring the water to a boil. You'll know it's boiling when you see steam holes forming on the surface of the rice, signaling that the water is being absorbed.
4. Cook the Rice
When the water is boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a lid, and let the rice cook for 7 minutes. During this time, the rice will continue to absorb the remaining water.
5. Let the Rice Steam
After 7 minutes, turn off the heat but keep the lid on. Let the rice sit undisturbed for another 10 minutes. This resting period allows the rice to finish cooking in its own steam, ensuring perfectly tender grains.
6. Fluff and Serve the Rice
Finally, remove the lid and fluff the rice gently with a fork or spoon, making sure not to mash the grains. Serve the rice warm, either on its own or as a side to your favorite dish.
Begin with a good quality aged basmati rice. The aging process helps reduce moisture content in the grains, making them less sticky and more aromatic.
Use the correct water-to-rice ratio, typically 1.5 to 2 cups of water per 1 cup of rice. Adjust based on the specific brand or age of the rice you are using.
Once the rice has absorbed the water, turn off the heat but keep the lid on, allowing the rice to sit for about 10-15 minutes. This resting period helps the steam to redistribute and results in even fluffiness.
Rinse your rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This step removes excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming gummy.
Lightly toast the rice in ghee or butter before adding water. This enhances the nutty aroma of the basmati and adds richness.
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