NineFoods technique guide · Rice basics

How to Cook Perfect Basmati Rice (Fluffy, Separate Grains)

Rinse. Soak. Cook to the right stage.

Written by Farwa ZeeshanRecipe developer, NineFoods

Basmati rice turns sticky when its surface starch is not rinsed off, when it is not soaked, or when it is overcooked. Fluffy basmati comes from three habits: rinse until the water runs clear, soak for 30 minutes, and cook with either the right water ratio or in plenty of boiling water and drain at the right moment.

30mSoak time

1 : 1.5Absorption ratio

70%Biryani drain point

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Ratios

Basmati rice water ratios

Method	Rice	Water	Time
Absorption (soaked)	1 cup	1.5 cups	12 min + 10 min rest
Absorption (not soaked)	1 cup	1.75 cups	15 min + 10 min rest
Boil and drain	1 cup	8 cups or more	8 to 10 min
Biryani par-boil	1 cup	8 cups, very salty	6 to 8 min

Steps

Step by step: fluffy plain basmati

Rinse the rice in cold water 4 to 5 times until the water is almost clear.
Soak for 30 minutes, then drain well.
Bring 1.5 cups water per cup of rice to a boil with salt and a few drops of oil.
Add the rice, boil 1 minute, then cover tightly and cook on the lowest heat for 12 minutes.
Turn off the heat and rest covered for 10 minutes, then fluff gently with a fork.

Fixes

Why basmati rice goes wrong

Sticky rice: not rinsed, or too much water. Rinse until clear and measure the water.
Broken grains: soaked too long or stirred while cooking. Soak 30 minutes and only fluff at the end.
Hard centre: too little water or the lid was lifted. Sprinkle 2 tbsp hot water, cover and steam 5 minutes.
Burnt bottom: heat too high. Use the lowest flame, or a tawa under the pot.

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