How to Make Perfect Basmati Rice
Learn how to make perfect basmati rice just like your favorite Indian restaurant! This fluffy, fragrant rice is easy to achieve at home with my method.
Servings: 4
Calories: 189kcal
Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain basmati rice
- 8 cups water
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 2 teaspoons oil
Instructions
- RINSE AND SOAK: Place the rice in a mesh sieve. Rinse under cold running water for at least 2-3 minutes. When the water runs clear, place the rice in a medium bowl and fill the bowl up with cold water. You want there to be at least 3 cups of water for 1 cup of rice. Allow the rice to soak for 30-45 minutes. During the last 15 minutes, bring the 8 cups of water to a boil in a 3-quart saucepan (or larger.)
- BOIL: When the water is boiling, lower the heat for just a second and add the salt and vinegar. Once the ingredients are added, kick the heat back up to medium-high. Drain the rice using a sieve. Add the rice to the boiling water and cook for 5-9 minutes. Check the rice every minute after the 5 minutes are up. You want it to be a hair underdone to your ideal preference. If you prefer softer rice, it’ll take you closer to 6-9 minutes. For a more al dente rice, aim for 4-6 minutes. Drain the rice in the same mesh sieve and do a quick rinse under cold running water. Let the rice drain while you prepare the saucepan.
- STEAM: Make sure there’s no water remaining in the saucepan. Place the pan over medium heat and drizzle with oil. Add drained rice to the pot, cover with a tight fitting lid and lower the heat to medium-low. Listen to the rice to see when it just starts to gently sizzle. That’s when you can lower the heat to the lowest setting and continue to steam the rice for 6 minutes. Turn off the heat and allow the rice to sit for 5 minutes before plating and serving.
Nutrition
Calories: 189kcal | Carbohydrates: 37g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 3g | Fiber: 1g
