Plain Basmati Rice

Plain Basmati Rice Recipe from India | Simple and Delicious

Region / culture: India | Preparation time: 35 minutes | Cooking time: 5 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Plain Basmati Rice is a simple yet delicious side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. This recipe highlights the natural flavor and aroma of basmati rice, making it a versatile addition to any meal.

History

Basmati rice has been cultivated in the Indian subcontinent for centuries and is known for its long grains and fragrant aroma. This recipe for Plain Basmati Rice showcases the traditional method of cooking this beloved grain to perfection.

Ingredients

2 cups of basmati rice
3.5 qt (3.31 liters) of water to 4 qt
salt

How to prepare

First, wash the rice in several changes of water until the water is no longer milky. To do this, start by running water over the rice in a strainer. Then, place the rice in a bowl and fill it with water, noting how milky the water becomes. Drain and repeat this process until the water is relatively clear.
Next, place the rice in the bowl and cover it with water, ensuring it is covered by an inch. Let it sit for 30 minutes.
Meanwhile, bring a large pot of water (3.5 to 4 qt) to a boil and add some salt.
Drain the rice and add it to the pot.
Stir the rice for about 30 seconds to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Bring the water back to a boil and cook the rice, uncovered, for 5 minutes.
Drain the rice, shake it in a strainer or colander to remove excess water, and serve immediately in a heated dish.
This recipe yields six servings.

Variations

Add a pinch of saffron or a handful of toasted nuts to the rice for a flavorful twist on this classic recipe.

Notes

Basmati rice has an earthy, perfumed fragrance all its own. It's a very light,
delicate rice and is perfect with curries and for pilafs. You can find it in
Indian import stores as well as stores that stock a good selection of grains. The rice should be cooked just before serving. It takes only 5 minutes. Make sure you have a warm serving dish ready.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To achieve perfectly cooked basmati rice, be sure to rinse the rice thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch. Additionally, allowing the rice to soak for 30 minutes before cooking helps to ensure fluffy, separate grains.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Plain Basmati Rice alongside your favorite curry, grilled meats, or roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Cook the rice uncovered to allow excess moisture to evaporate, resulting in perfectly cooked, fluffy grains.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a nutty flavor, substitute brown basmati rice for white basmati rice in this recipe.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the rice ahead of time and reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop for a quick and easy side dish.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the rice with fresh herbs, such as cilantro or parsley, for a pop of color and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Plain Basmati Rice with dishes that have bold flavors, such as spicy curries or tangy chutneys, for a well-balanced meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the rice in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Plain Basmati Rice contains approximately 200 calories, making it a nutritious and satisfying side dish option.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Plain Basmati Rice contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates, making it a satisfying and energy-rich side dish.

Fats

Basmati rice is naturally low in fat, with each serving of Plain Basmati Rice containing less than 1 gram of fat.

Proteins

While basmati rice is not a significant source of protein, each serving of Plain Basmati Rice contains approximately 4 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Basmati rice is a good source of essential vitamins and minerals, including niacin, thiamine, and iron.

Alergens

Basmati rice is naturally gluten-free and does not contain any common allergens.

Summary

Plain Basmati Rice is a nutritious and versatile side dish that is low in fat and calories, making it a healthy addition to any meal.

Summary

Plain Basmati Rice is a classic side dish that is easy to prepare and pairs well with a variety of main courses. With its fluffy texture and fragrant aroma, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for Plain Basmati Rice. It was a hot summer day, and I was visiting my friend Maria who had recently moved back from India. As we sat in her cozy kitchen, sipping on chai tea and reminiscing about our childhood adventures, she suddenly pulled out a bag of fragrant Basmati rice from her pantry.

"Have you ever tried making Basmati rice?" Maria asked, her eyes twinkling with excitement.

I shook my head, intrigued by the unfamiliar name. Maria proceeded to show me how to make the perfect Plain Basmati Rice – a simple yet delicious dish that would soon become a staple in my own kitchen.

She started by rinsing the rice in cold water until the water ran clear. This step was crucial, she explained, as it removed any excess starch and ensured that the rice would cook evenly. As we chatted and laughed, I watched in awe as Maria effortlessly measured out the rice and water, adding a dash of salt and a drizzle of oil to the pot.

"Let it come to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until all the water is absorbed," Maria instructed, her voice gentle and soothing.

I followed her instructions carefully, stirring the rice occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot. The tantalizing aroma of the Basmati rice filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation.

After about 15 minutes, Maria declared that the rice was ready. She fluffed it up with a fork, releasing a burst of steam and revealing perfectly cooked grains that glistened like pearls in the sunlight.

"Try a spoonful," Maria urged, handing me a plate of steaming hot Basmati rice.

I took a bite and was immediately transported to a world of flavor and texture. The rice was light and fluffy, with a delicate nutty aroma that danced on my taste buds. It was simple yet satisfying, a blank canvas waiting to be paired with a variety of dishes.

From that moment on, I was hooked. I made Basmati rice for every meal, experimenting with different spices and flavors to create unique variations of the dish. I shared my newfound recipe with my family and friends, who marveled at the exotic taste and texture of the Basmati rice.

Over the years, I continued to perfect my recipe for Plain Basmati Rice, adding my own personal touch to make it truly my own. I would often think back to that fateful day in Maria's kitchen, where I had discovered the joy of cooking and the power of a simple yet delicious recipe.

Now, whenever I make Basmati rice, I am reminded of the special bond that Maria and I share, forged over a shared love of food and friendship. The recipe may be plain and simple, but it holds a wealth of memories and emotions that make it truly special to me.

And so, as I sit down to enjoy a steaming plate of Basmati rice, I raise my fork in a silent toast to Maria, the friend who introduced me to this wonderful recipe, and to the countless others who have inspired me on my culinary journey. Cheers to good food, good friends, and good memories – may they continue to nourish us for years to come.