This stovetop basmati rice recipe is simple, reliable, and perfect every time. The grains cook up fluffy and separate, never sticky or mushy.
All you need is your rice, along with a handful of other pantry staples, and a few minutes on the stove.
why you'll love this recipe
- You get fluffy, aromatic, and delicious rice all cooked in one pot. No rice cooker needed.
- It's the perfect side for so many dishes. It works with curries, chickpea stew, chicken fajitas, grilled chicken or fish, steamed cabbage or sautéed vegetables, and minced meat.
- It's ready in under 30 minutes.
- Scales well for meal prep and leftovers.
how to make it
Making this recipe is pretty easy.
- Start by melting butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the rinsed rice and stir so the grains are nicely coated.
- We then add water, salt, and bay leaves, and bring everything to a boil.
- Lower the heat, cover, and let it cook for about 15 minutes or until the water has evaporated .
- Once cooked, turn off the heat and leave the lid on for another 5 minutes.
- Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.
add-ins
- I used bay leaves for the aroma, but you can also use cardamom pods or cinnamon sticks, or use them all together.
- Add some shredded Parmesan cheese.
- You can also add chopped herbs such as dill, cilantro, or parsley.
what goes with basmati rice
Basmati is one of those sides that goes well with just about anything! Here are some of the ways I like to serve my rice.
- Tikka masala.
- Salmon bites and other fish dishes.
- Kabobs.
- Chili con Carne
- Kidney beans curry.
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frequently asked questions
Yes. Rinsing basmati rice removes excess starch, which helps keep the grains fluffy and separate instead of sticky. Rinse under cold water until the water runs mostly clear. This only takes a minute or two and makes a noticeable difference in texture.
Use 11/2 cups of water for every cup of regular basmati rice. If using aged basmati rice, increase the liquid to 13/4-2 cups per cup of rice, as the grains are drier and absorb more water.
The brand of rice will also affect how much water you need, so adjust accordingly based on the package instructions.
Let the rice cool completely before storing. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, sprinkle a little water over the rice and warm it in the microwave or on the stove until hot. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 4 months.
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📖 Recipe
Easy Fluffy Basmati Rice
Equipment
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoon butter, ghee, or vegetable oil
- 1 cup long-grain basmati rice rinsed
- 1½ cups water
- ½ teaspoon salt use more or less, to taste
- 3-4 bay leaves
Instructions
- Heat the butter or oil in a medium pot or saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the rinsed rice and stir to coat the grains evenly.
- Pour in the water and add the salt and bay leaves. Increase the heat to a high and bring to a boil.
- Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until all the water is absorbed.
- Turn off the heat and let the rice rest, covered, for 5 minutes.
- Fluff with a fork and remove the bay leaves before serving.
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