How to Make Fluffy Basmati Rice
Basmati rice has always been my favorite type of rice. I’ve made it hundreds of times for stir fry, curries, and more – and trust me – I’ve made my fair share of mushy, soggy rice – but not anymore! The trick to the fluffiest, most flavorful aromatic basmati rice is a touch of olive oil, the perfect water to rice ratio, the no rinse method, and proper steaming. This is the ultimate guide to your best basmati rice yet (so good you’ll just want to eat it plain – like I do!)
– Common Questions about Basmati Rice –
What is basmati rice?
Basmati rice is a long-grain rice. It has a light and fluffy texture with a fragrant aroma. It originates from the Indian subcontinent, particularly India and Pakistan.
Is basmati rice healthy?
Basmati rice can be a healthier choice when compared to other types of white rice.
Is basmati rice gluten-free?
Yes! Basmati rice is naturally gluten-free. Since rice is a naturally gluten-free grain, both white and brown basmati rice are safe to eat.
Basmati Rice Ingredients
*See below for more information.
See recipe card for full ingredient list and quantities.
What is basmati rice water ratio?
Typically, 1 cup of rice to 1.5 cups of water works well for stovetop cooking.
Do I need to rinse basmati rice before cooking?
You may be surprised to hear this, but rinsing basmati rice often results in a mushier texture. Coming from experience of making basmati rice almost weekly for the past 10+ years, the best basmati rice is not rinsed because excess water in the rice leads to a softer texture while cooking. It also throws off the water:rice ratio which leads to soggier rice.
How to Cook Basmati Rice
1. Add your olive oil, rice and water to a pot.
In a medium saucepan, add your olive oil over medium/high heat. Add your rice and water and give it a stir. Break up any rice clumps.
*For Indian-inspired basmati rice, add your olive oil with cumin seeds. Cook and stir until fragrant and toasted (~ 1 minute). Then add your rice/water. I love this type of rice for curries!
2. Boil then simmer
Once it starts simmering (bubbles forming) cover the rice with a snug-fitting lid.
Reduce the heat to low/med and let it cook for 12-14 minutes – without lifting the lid!
Once the time is up, check make sure the water is fully absorbed and place the lid back on. If it still looks wet, consider cooking for another 1-2 minutes (cooktop heat can vary).
3. Steam
Once water is fully absorbed, remove from heat (still covered) and let it rest for at least 5 minutes (max 10 minutes).
4. Fluff (not with a fork!)
Use a wooden paddle or wooden spoon to give the rice a little fluff. Optional – top with some diced parsley or cilantro for a pretty garnish. Enjoy right away!
Storage & Reheating Leftover Basmati Rice
Ways to Serve Basmati Rice
There are so many ways to enjoy basmati rice! Some of my favorites include:
- A side for stir fry like in my best peanut tofu stir fry or mongolian stir fry
- With a cozy curry like my red lentil sweet potato curry or chickpea curry (20 minutes)
- Turn it into fried rice like this juicy mango fried rice or garlic fried rice.
- Enjoy it plain because it just tastes so dang good!
Tips for 5-Star Basmati Rice- Every time!
Our Favorite
Recipes
Subscribe for Free Recipes!
Get new recipe ideas from Naturallie Plant-Based straight to your inbox.
Favorite Basmati Rice Recipe
Save This Recipe
Want to get this recipe in your email? Just enter your email below and get it now along with new recipe updates!
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tsp cumin seeds optional
- 1 cup dry basmati rice NOT rinsed*
- 1.5 cups water cool tap water works well
- diced parsley/cilantro optional topping
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, add your olive oil over medium/high heat. Add your rice and water and give it a stir. Break up any rice clumps. *For Indian-inspired basmati rice, add your olive oil with cumin seeds. Cook and stir until fragrant and toasted (~ 1 minute). Then add your rice/water. I love this type of rice for curries!
- Once it starts simmering (bubbles forming) cover the rice with a snug-fitting lid.
- Reduce the heat to low/med and let it cook for 12-14 minutes – without lifting the lid!
- Once the time is up, check make sure the water is fully absorbed and place the lid back on. If it still looks wet, consider cooking for another 1-2 minutes (cooktop heat can vary).Once water is fully absorbed, remove from heat (still covered) and let it rest for an additional 5 minutes-10 minutes.
- Use a wooden paddle or wooden spoon to give the rice a little fluff. Optional – top with some diced parsley or cilantro for a pretty garnish. Enjoy right away!
Notes
- Be patient and let the rice steam after cooking for up to 10 minutes with the cover on. This creates that fluffy texture we all love!
- Simmer your rice with olive oil (or even coconut oil for a different flavor). This really boosts the flavor of the rice!
- Measure your water and rice accurately for the perfect water to rice ratio that is essentially fool-proof.
- Cooking a bigger batch? You will likely need to cook your rice for longer (14-16 minutes).
