Go Back
+ servings
wooden spoon taking a scoop of white rice out of a black bowl
Print Recipe
5 stars (2 ratings)

How to Cook Basmati Rice

This recipe makes the most perfect basmati rice every time, and it's so simple. Light, fluffy and aromatic.
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time25 minutes
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Indian-inspired
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 200kcal
Author: Nora Taylor

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Place the rice to a medium sized pot and add enough water to cover it by a few inches. Use your hands to swish the rice around, then carefully pour off the cloudy water. Repeat 3-4 times until the water is nearly clear. Drain off the rest of the water, or use a fine mesh strainer to completely drain it, then add the rice back to the pot.
  • Now add 1 1/2 cups fresh water to the rice along with the oil and salt. Bring to a boil, uncovered at first, then once boiling cover the pot with a tight fitting lid and turn the heat down so the rice is simmering. Cook for 15 minutes, until the water appears absorbed. Remove from heat and let it steam for another 5-10 minutes.
  • Fluffy the rice with a fork and serve.

Notes

  1. For coconut basmati rice, replace 1/2 cup water with full fat coconut milk.
  2. The recipe can easily be increased to feed more people or meal prep for the week.
  3. Cooked basmati rice freezes well once cooled. I like to use freezer friendly 2-3 cup containers to freeze rice.
  4. Rice will keep in the refrigerator for about 4 days. Simply reheat in the microwave or stovetop when ready to serve.

Nutrition

Serving: 1of 4 servings | Calories: 200kcal | Carbohydrates: 37g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 4g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 298mg | Potassium: 53mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Calcium: 16mg | Iron: 1mg