Plain Basmati Rice

Recipe: Serves 4

A perfectly fluffy Basmati rice with cumin, bay leaf, and sweet peas — a simple and versatile side dish that pairs beautifully with any main dish.

Ingredients:

Method:

1. Wash rice 3 times, rinse under cold water, and soak for 10 minutes.
2. Heat oil in a wide, large pan on medium heat. Add cumin seeds and bay leaf. Let them sizzle for 40 to 60 seconds. Do not let them burn.
3. Add sliced onions and sweat for 3 to 4 minutes.
4. Add warm water and salt. Be careful — water will splatter.
5. Add the soaked, drained rice to the pan.
6. Add frozen peas and stir gently.
7. Let the mixture come to a boil on medium-high heat for 8 to 10 minutes.
8. Once boiling, reduce heat to medium. As the water evaporates, the rice will start to swell.
9. Cover with a lid and lower the heat. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes.
10. If there is too much water, frothy water will seep through the lid — simply remove the lid for a couple of minutes, then cover again.
11. Once all the water is absorbed and rice is cooked, turn off the heat.
12. Let the rice sit covered and undisturbed for 10 minutes.
13. Gently fluff with a flat utensil before serving.

Tips: Soaking the rice before cooking gives you fluffier, more separate grains. Pairs perfectly with Butter Chicken or creamy mushroom sabji even beef stew.