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Basmati rice is a type of white rice commonly grown in the Himalayas, India, and Pakistan—with India producing about two-thirds of the world's supply. It is a long-grain rice that is characterized by a light nutty flavor and floral aroma, and it's popular in rice pilaf and as a side dish for curry.
Cooking basmati rice is easy and requires minimal preparation:
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Wash. Washing basmati before cooking is essential to ensure that the starch is removed. You do not need to wash the rice until the water runs clear, like sushi rice, but you should wash it a couple of times either in a fine-mesh sieve or filling a pot with cold water, stirring the rice with your hands, then draining and repeating.
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Soak. Soaking the rice can produce softer rice, though it is not necessary.
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Add water. Remember, for every cup of basmati rice, add a cup and a half of water.
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Cook. To cook rice, use a rice cooker or a heavy-bottomed pot over the stove.
