Basmati Rice Without Pressure Cooker Recipe

Cooking Directions

• STEP 1.Wash the basmati rice thoroughly and soak it in water for 30 minutes.
• STEP 2.In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add salt and whole spices like bay leaf, cinnamon stick, and cardamom pods.
• STEP 3.Drain the soaked rice and add it to the boiling water. Cook on medium heat until the rice is 70-80% cooked.
• STEP 4.Drain the rice and spread it on a flat surface to cool down and dry.
• STEP 5.Heat oil or ghee in a pan and add cumin seeds. Once they splutter, add the cooled rice.
• STEP 6.Gently mix the rice with the cumin seeds and cook for a few minutes until the rice is fully cooked.
• STEP 7.Fluff the rice with a fork and serve hot.

Cooking Tips

• Soaking the rice helps in achieving fluffy and separate grains.
• You can add a few drops of lemon juice to the boiling water to keep the rice grains white and prevent them from sticking together.
• You can add saffron strands soaked in warm milk to the rice for a fragrant and colorful variation.

Storage and Serving

• Serve the basmati rice hot as a side dish with your favorite curries or main course.
• Leftover rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• To reheat the rice, sprinkle some water on top and microwave it or steam it until heated through.