When you know how to cook fluffy basmati rice it's easy. On the other hand, the easiest recipe can sometimes appear complicated leaving you wondering why it never fluffs! Let me show you how to cook white basmati rice perfectly, every single time.

Rinse or don’t but if you do, there is something to consider. No soaking the rice, simply add water, a pinch of salt, cover with a lid and cook.

Fluffy Rice Recipe

The reason I am never without rice in my kitchen is the same reason I'm never without pasta. These are brilliant staples that are affordable, easy to prepare and extremely versatile!

I remember eating regular rice growing up I don't think we could even afford basmati rice at the time. What I do know though is that it always left me feeling heavy and lethargic and I simply ate less and less of it over the years. Basmati rice on the other hand, feels lighter but I would say that both of these foods, pasta and rice, are best in smaller portions since they are both carbs.

Knowing how to cook a particular food properly can make you enjoy it. Sometimes, it's not the food, it's how we prepare it. Understanding our food is extremely important because it helps us make informed food choices.

What is The Ratio of Basmati Rice to Water?

The magic rice/water ratio is: 1 cup of rice to 2 cups of water. It works I know because I've tried many variations! Most of the time I used to end up flustered because the water would either not be enough or just about make it, not giving the best results. There are many variations out on the world-wide-web but this is the one that works for me.

What is Basmati Rice?

Basmati rice is a long-grain variety primarily grown in India and Pakistan. Known for its nutty, aromatic flavor, basmati rice is often considered superior to regular rice. Its unique texture and the quick stove-top cooking method make it a versatile choice for a variety of dishes.

You can find both brown and white basmati rice, but keep in mind that the cooking times will differ.

How to Cook Basmati Rice (Quick Method)

Boil the Water: Use a kettle to quickly boil 2 cups of water.

Add Rice and Water: In a medium to large saucepan, add 1 cup of basmati rice and pour in the boiled water. The saucepan should not be small!

Cook on High Heat: Bring the water to a boil, then cook the rice, on medium-high heat, covered for 8 and a half minutes. Avoid stirring to maintain the rice's texture and definitely no peeking!

Let it Sit: After 8 and a half minutes, remove the saucepan from the hot stove and leave it aside - do not open it!

Let it stand covered for 5 minutes to fully steam and finish cooking. This step is important because it helps the rice to firm up and become fluffy.

Tips and Suggestions

Here are my tips and suggestions to help you make perfect basmati rice.

• Pot size - Use the right size pot for the quantity of rice so it cooks properly and the water doesn't overflow' for example - if the pot is too small and you end up with sticky rice.

• Rinsing - If you want to rinse your rice, to help remove excess starch my suggestion is to rinse in a colander under a running cold water tap. Do not soak the rice! Then leave it in the colander to drip for a few minutes.
  
  What to consider: Remember that when you rinse rice, you are essentially adding water plus you have to add water again when the rice cooks. (Rice absorbs liquid). In which case, adding just under the required amount of water when cooking may be necessary.

• Do not open the lid - You want to let the rice cook covered and undisturned the entire time. It will give you the best fluffy well steamed rice.

Can I Remove The Lid Once To Check On The Rice?

I understand that if it's your first time cooking rice, you may be stressed that it's going to burn or that the water will get finished and you won't know. That is completely understandable. The difference is, this recipe works.

Because you are using boiling water it comes to a boil very quickly, simply take the heat down one notch once the water is boiling and then let it cook. The stove I cooked this rice on is an electric stove and it started off on a #9 setting (highest setting) the minute it boiled rapidly, I lowered the heat to #8. Don't make it low, the heat must be high heat and then medium-high heat.

Can I Use Spice in Rice?

There are always so many fragrant spices to use in rice when making a particular recipe or simply wanting to spice things up a little! Here are a few ideas.

• Turmeric spice
• Cinnamon
• Cayenne
• Saffron
• Bay leaf
• Smoked paprika
• Cumin
• Cardamom
• Dried herbs
• Aniseed

Can You Freeze Basmati Rice

Yes! Once your cooked and cooled rice is ready, transfer the rice to an airtight freezer-safe container. Ziploc bags work well too and your cooked rice will safely freeze for up to 3 months.  

Can I Reheat Rice in the Microwave?

Yes! Take it straight from the freezer to the microwave with a little dash of water (like 3 tablespoons) to help it along so it's fluffy again. Same approach on the stove, medium-high heat, a little dash of water, lid on.

Add chopped herbs for a variation or a squeeze of fresh lemon. Serve with thinly sliced lemon peel.

How To Cook Brown Basmati Rice

Use a kettle to quickly boil 2 cups of water for every 1 cup of rice - brown or white.

• Add Rice and Water: In a medium saucepan, add 1 cup of basmati rice, pour in the boiled water and cook high heat. Cook on medium-high heat for 12-15 minutes, as it takes longer due to the extra bran layer.

• Let It Sit: Remove the pot from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the rice to firm up and steam.

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