Cooking perfect basmati rice can be a challenge, but with the right rice cooker setting, you can achieve fluffy and aromatic results every time. In this blog post, I will explore the best rice cooker setting for achieving perfect basmati rice. Read on to discover the key to delicious basmati rice with minimal effort.
Choosing The Right Setting For Basmati Rice
When it comes to cooking basmati rice in a rice cooker, selecting the correct setting is crucial. Most modern rice cookers come with different settings such as white rice, brown rice, and even specific settings for sushi rice. For basmati rice, opt for the white rice setting for the best results.
Tips For Making Basmati Rice In Rice Cookers
If you’re a fan of fragrant and fluffy basmati rice but struggle to get it just right in your rice cooker, fret not. Here are a few tips to keep in mind while trying to cook basmati rice in a rice cooker.
Recommended Water To Rice Ratio
Achieving the perfect water to rice ratio is essential for fluffy and separate grains of basmati rice. For every cup of basmati rice, use one and a half cups of water. This ratio ensures that the rice is cooked to perfection without becoming mushy or undercooked.
Soaking The Basmati Rice
To enhance the texture and flavor of your basmati rice, consider soaking it for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This simple step can make a significant difference in the end result, giving you light and fluffy grains that are packed with flavor.
The Cooking Process
Once you have selected the white rice setting on your rice cooker and measured the appropriate water to rice ratio, let the magic happen. Avoid opening the lid during the cooking process to prevent the steam from escaping, which can interfere with the cooking of the rice.
Fluffing And Serving The Basmati Rice
Once the rice cooker completes its cycle, allow the rice to sit for a few minutes before fluffing it with a fork. This step helps release any excess moisture and ensures that each grain is perfectly cooked. Serve your aromatic basmati rice alongside your favorite curry, or enjoy it as a standalone dish.
How To Cook Brown Basmati Rice In a Rice Cooker
Start by rinsing the brown basmati rice under running water. Then, combine the rice and water in the inner cooking pot of your rice cooker, using a 1:2 ratio. Do not forget to add a pinch of salt. Close the lid and select the brown rice setting. Once cooked, let the brown basmati rice sit for 10 minutes before fluffing with a fork. Serve hot and enjoy.
Which Is The Best Rice Cooker For Basmati Rice?
When selecting the best rice cooker for basmati rice, consider the Zojirushi NS-LGC05 fuzzy logic rice cooker (click here to read my review). While it does not have a specific menu setting for basmati rice, it does have a menu option for cooking long-grain white rice. Both basmati and jasmine rice are popular examples of aromatic long grain rice varieties.
Then again, you can probably use any electric rice cooker and either use the cook button or the white rice setting for cooking basmati rice. Thus, the best rice cooker for basmati rice might actually be the one you already own.
How To Cook Basmati Rice On a Stove
In case you do not currently own an electric rice cooker, then you can still cook basmati rice on the stove. To begin with, rinse one cup of basmati rice until the water runs clear. In a saucepan, combine the rice with 1.5 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes. Once the water is absorbed, remove the pot from the heat and let it sit, covered, for another 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.
Conclusion
With the right rice cooker setting, water to rice ratio, and a few simple tips, you can easily master the art of cooking basmati rice in your rice cooker. By following these guidelines, you’ll be able to enjoy perfectly cooked basmati rice that is light, fluffy, and bursting with flavor.