Indian Style Basmati Rice:
Basmati rice is a high-quality long grain rice known for its distinctive flavour and tender texture. Indian style basmati rice is a popular dish prepared by cooking basmati rice with a mixture of aromatic spices such as cumin, cardamom, cinnamon and cloves. This dish is often served in Indian cuisine along with a variety of curries, stews and grilled meats.
What is Basmati Rice?
Basmati rice is a long-grain rice that originated in the Indian subcontinent. The word ‘Basmati’ is derived from the Sanskrit word ‘vasmati’ which means ‘fragrant’. This rice is known for its unique aroma, nutty flavor, and fluffy texture. Basmati rice is widely used in Indian, Middle Eastern, and Central Asian cuisines.
To prepare Indian-style basmati rice, the rice must first be soaked for a few hours so that it is tender and fluffy when cooked. Then, the rice is cooked in a mixture of water and spices until it is fully cooked and fragrant. This dish is often garnished with fresh cilantro and served with raita, a yogurt-based seasoning mix, to provide a cool contrast to the warm and spicy flavors of the rice. Indian style basmati rice is a delicious and flavorful side dish that enhances any meal.
Cooking time: 35 minutesAdditional time: 15 minTotal time: 50 minutesServings: 6
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups basmati rice
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 (2 inch) piece cinnamon stick
- 2 pods green cardamom
- 2 whole cloves
- 1 tablespoon cumin seed
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 2 ½ cups water
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
Directions:
STEP:1
Place rice in a bowl covered with water. Set aside and soak for 20 minutes.
STEP:2
Meanwhile, in the last 10 minutes of soaking, heat the oil in a large pot or saucepan over medium heat. Add the cinnamon stick, cardamom pods and cloves, then stir in the cumin. Cook and stir until fragrant and toasted, about a minute, then add the onion to the pot. Saute until the onion is a rich golden brown color, about 10 minutes.
STEP:3
Drain water from rice and add to pot. Cook and stir rice until lightly toasted, about 3 minutes. Add water and salt and bring to a boil. Cover and reduce heat to low.
STEP:4
Simmer for about 15 minutes, or until all the water is absorbed. let rest 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork before serving.