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how to make non sticky basmati rice

Perfect Basmati Rice recipe

Santosh Allada
Learn how to cook basmati rice with a simple method called the absorption method. Simple and easy basmati rice recipe for fluffy, non-sticky grains every time you cook.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Soaking time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine Indian
Servings 3 people

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup Basmati Rice
  • 2 cups Water
  • 1 tsp Ghee clarified butter
  • 1 tsp Lemon juice
  • 1/2-1tsp Salt

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Wash the basmati rice 2-3 times or until the water runs clear.
  • Soak the rice in enough water for at least 30 minutes.

Cooking the basmati rice

  • Add 2 cups water to a pot and let it come to a rolling boil.
  • Add salt, ghee, and lemon juice to the boiling water and give a mix.
  • Add the soaked rice and mix gently.
  • Continue to cook the rice on a high flame till the water level is just above the rice.
  • Turn the flame to low and cover the pot with a lid. I put a heavyweight on the lid so that steam does not escape.
  • Cook for exactly 10 minutes. Turn off the flame and rest for 10 minutes.
  • Open the lid and fluff with a spatula.
  • Basmati Rice is ready. Serve with your favorite veg or non-veg curry.

Notes

The measurements are for aged rice. If you are using new rice, the quantity of water and cooking time will vary.
Rinse the rice: It’s important to rinse the rice thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch.
Soak the rice: Soaking the rice for 20-30 minutes before cooking can help it cook more evenly and become more fluffy.
Use the right ratio of water to rice.
Bring the water to a boil before adding the rice: Start by bringing the water to a boil in a pot with a tight-fitting lid. Once the water is boiling, add the rice and stir briefly.
 
Cook on low heat: Once the rice is added, lower the heat to the lowest setting and cover the pot with the lid.
 
Let it rest: After the rice is cooked, let it rest off the heat for 5-10 minutes. This will help the rice absorb any remaining moisture and become even more fluffy.