how to cook basmati rice

To cook basmati rice perfectly, follow these key steps:

1. Rinse the rice thoroughly with cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
2. Soak the rice for about 15 to 30 minutes if time allows (optional but helps even cooking).
3. Use a ratio of about 1 cup basmati rice to 1.5 cups water.
4. Bring water to a rolling boil in a pot, add salt and optionally oil or ghee.
5. Add the drained rice to boiling water, let it return to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover with a tight-fitting lid.
6. Simmer gently without removing the lid for about 15 to 20 minutes until water is absorbed and rice is tender.
7. Turn off the heat and let the rice rest, covered, for 5 to 15 minutes to allow steam to finish cooking the grains.
8. Fluff the rice gently with a fork or rice paddle before serving.

Optional additions include whole spices such as cardamom, cloves, or bay leaf to enhance aroma. Avoid stirring the rice while cooking to keep grains separate and fluffy. This method works well on stovetop; it can be adapted for rice cookers or Instant Pots with similar rice-to-water ratios and rest times.