What is Basmati Rice?
Basmati Rice (pronounced baz-MAH-tee) is a variety of long, slender-grained aromatic rice traditionally grown in India, Nepal, and Pakistan. - (Source Wiki). The word “Basmati” in Hindi means “fragrant” or “full of aroma.” It comes in two varieties, white and brown. Both have a nutty taste and a distinct smell. It is often served alongside Indian curries or as the main ingredient in the famous rice dish Biryani or Rice Kheer from the Indian subcontinent.
Ingredients to Make Basmati Rice
You will need only two main ingredients, and the other two ingredients are optional.
Basmati Rice: This long-grain rice is easily available in local grocery stores. I like Daawat Extra Long rice brand. Water: Use plain water in this recipe. You can also use low-sodium vegetable broth to make it more flavorful (adjust salt in this case). Oil/Ghee (Optional): adding oil or ghee adds flavor to the grain and helps to keep the grains separated while cooking. However, it’s optional. If you are vegan or dairy-free, replace ghee with olive oil. Salt (Optional): You can add a little to season the rice.
How to Cook Perfect White Basmati Rice in Instant Pot
Rinse the basmati rice 2-3 times until the water runs clear (removes extra starch), and drain the remaining water. Note: This is a no-soak method, and my rice always turns out soft, fluffy, and separated. Add the rinsed rice, water, oil, and salt to the Instant Pot steel insert. Give a quick stir.
For softer rice: add 1 ¼ cups water. For Al dente rice: add 1 cup of water.
Close the lid securely, and turn the vent to “SEALING”. Select the PRESSURE COOK/MANUAL (High Pressure) setting and set the cooking time to 4 minutes. When the Instant Pot beeps, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes, then release any remaining pressure before removing the lid. Open the lid, use a fork or ladle to fluff up the rice, and serve hot with the curry of your choice.
How to Cook Pot-in-Pot Basmati Rice
In a small stainless steel container (or pyrex glass bowl), add 1 cup of rinsed basmati rice, and 1 ¼ cup water. Add 1 cup of water to the 6qt inner pot. Place a trivet on the inner pot. Then, place a small container with rice and water on the trivet and cover it with a lid. Then, follow the remaining recipe instructions.
Storage Suggestions
Store: Store Basmati rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Freeze: Freeze the leftover basmati rice in a freezer-safe ziplock or storage container for up to 4-6 months. Reheat: Sprinkle some water and reheat in the microwave on high for 2-3 minutes till done. If Frozen, allow it to defrost in the refrigerator for a few hours and then reheat it on the microwave oven or stovetop to get steamy fresh rice.
Common Questions
If you like this recipe, then check out more Instant Pot 101 Recipes Some of the recipes that I like to serve with white basmati rice are Curry: Serve it alongside Chickpea Coconut Curry, Mushroom Curry, Paneer Butter Masala, or Palak Paneer. Dal: Choose any one of these lentil recipes like Dal Tadka, Rajma Masala (Kidney Beans Curry), Dal Makhani
Instant Pot Brown Basmati Rice Instant Pot Jasmine Rice Instant Pot Sona Masoori Rice Instant Pot Calrose Rice Instant Pot Millets
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