Fluffy and Simple Basmati Rice Recipe
This is the simplest method to getting fluffy basmati rice that is perfectly cooked every time.
Servings 4
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups long-grain basmati rice
- 2 ½ cups water
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
Instructions
- Rinse the rice in a bowl or strainer until it runs almost clear. Drain (with a strainer or colander).I usually use a big bowl, add water to the rice and move the rice around with my hand for a minute. Then I strain the water and repeat the rinse cycle a few times until the water runs almost clear. Be patient as this step may take a few minutes.
- Put the rice, water, spices and oil in a medium-size pot. Stir and set the heat on high with the lid off.
- As soon as it starts to boil, reduce the heat to medium-low/low and put the lid on. (Be sure to keep the lid on during the entire simmer and steaming phase).Let it simmer until all of the water is absorbed, about 30-40 minutes. Turn the heat off and let it just steam for another 15 minutes.
- Next, fluff with a fork or spoon and serve.
- Enjoy!
Notes
Can I cook rice for too long?
Boiling, simmering and steaming are vital steps to cooking rice.
Sometimes, if the water is absorbed before the cooking time runs out, then a crust forms at the bottom of the pot. Do not worry about this! The heat is set at low so it shouldn't burn the rice.
It may just form a crunchy layer that some people actually really enjoy. In fact, this layer is a delicacy in some regions and is served as its own dish.