Plain rice is a simple, versatile staple that pairs well with nearly any dish. Whether you’re serving it with curries, stir-fries, or stews, perfectly cooked rice is essential for any meal. Here’s an easy and foolproof method to make fluffy, delicious rice every time.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup basmati or any long-grain rice
- 2 cups water (or adjust for rice variety)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (optional)
- 1 teaspoon oil or ghee (optional)
Instructions:
- Rinse the Rice:
- Rinse the rice under cold running water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming sticky.
- Soak the rice in water for 15-20 minutes if using basmati or long-grain rice. Drain the rice before cooking.
- Boil the Water:
- In a medium-sized saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. You can adjust the water depending on the type of rice you’re using (typically a 1:2 ratio of rice to water for long-grain rice).
- Add the Rice:
- Once the water is boiling, add the soaked and drained rice to the pot.
- Add salt and oil or ghee if using. Stir gently to ensure the rice is evenly distributed in the water.
- Cook the Rice:
- Cover the pot with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let the rice simmer for 12-15 minutes without stirring. Do not remove the lid during cooking to keep the steam inside.
- After the cooking time, turn off the heat and let the rice sit, covered, for another 5-10 minutes. This allows the rice to steam and become fluffy.
- Fluff and Serve:
- Use a fork to gently fluff the rice before serving. This helps separate the grains and ensures they stay light and fluffy.
- Serve the plain rice hot as a side dish with your favorite curry, dal, or stir-fry.
Tips for Perfect Plain Rice:
- Rice to Water Ratio: The typical ratio for long-grain rice like basmati is 1:2 (1 cup rice to 2 cups water). Adjust the water according to the type of rice you’re using.
- Don’t Stir: Avoid stirring the rice while it’s cooking to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Resting Time: Letting the rice rest after cooking ensures the grains absorb any remaining moisture and become fluffy.
Presentation Tips:
- Serve the rice in a bowl or plate, garnished with a few fresh coriander leaves for a simple and fresh look.
- Pair it with your favorite curry, dal, or gravy dishes for a complete meal.
Nutrition Chart for Plain Rice (per serving)
• Calories —————— 200 kcal
• Total Fat —————— 1 g
• Cholesterol ————— 0 mg
• Sodium ——————– 150 mg
• Total Carbohydrates — 45 g
• Protein ——————— 4 g
• Sugar ———————— 0 g
• Fiber ———————— 1 g
Note: These values are approximate and may vary depending on the type of rice used.
