Perfect Fragrant Basmati Rice Recipe
- Victoria

- Dec 30, 2025
- 2 min read
Updated: Jan 2
Perfect Fragrant Basmati Rice
Prep time: 20 mins | Cook time: 15 mins | Serves: 4

Ingredients
Item Amount Purpose
Basmati Rice 1.5 cups Long-grain is essential for the texture.
Water 2.5 cups the ideal ratio for fluffy grains.
Ghee or Butter 1 tbsp Adds a silky sheen and prevents sticking.
Whole Spices 2 Cardamom pods, 1 Clove Infuses the rice with a subtle aroma.
Salt ½ tsp Enhances the natural grain flavor.
Instructions
The Rinse (Crucial): Place the rice in a bowl and rinse it under cold water 3–4 times until the water runs completely clear. This removes excess surface starch that makes rice gummy.
The Soak: Let the rice soak in fresh water for 20 minutes. This allows the grains to absorb moisture, so they cook evenly without breaking. Drain well.
The Sauté: Melt ghee or butter in a pot over medium heat. Add the cardamom and clove for 30 seconds, then add the drained rice. Stir gently for 1 minute to coat every grain in fat.
The Simmer: Add the 2.5 cups of water and salt. Bring to a boil.
The Steam: Once boiling, turn the heat to the lowest setting, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and cook for 12 minutes. Do not lift the lid!
The Rest: Turn off the heat and let the pot sit, covered, for 5 more minutes. This final steam is what perfects the texture.
The Fluff: Use a fork to gently fluff the rice, removing the whole spices before serving.

Pro Tips for Basmati Rice
For a "restaurant-style" look, add a pinch of turmeric to the water for yellow rice, or garnish the finished bowl with fried onions (birista) and fresh mint.
Grocery List for Basmati Rice Ingredients
Basmati Rice (1.5 cups)
Ghee or Butter (1 tbsp)
Whole Spices (Cardamom pods and Cloves)
Salt
Check out my recipe for:
#BasmatiRice #PerfectRice #RiceRecipe #IndianCuisine #HomeCooking #FragrantRice #GlutenFreeRecipes #CookingBasics #RiceLover #KitchenTechnique
Item | Amount | Purpose |
Basmati Rice | 1.5 cups | Long-grain is essential for the texture. |
Water | 2.5 cups | The ideal ratio for fluffy grains. |
Ghee or Butter | 1 tbsp | Adds a silky sheen and prevents sticking. |
Whole Spices | 2 Cardamom pods, 1 Clove | Infuses the rice with a subtle aroma. |
Salt | ½ tsp | Enhances the natural grain flavor. |




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