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The Art of Cooking Perfect Non-Basmati Rice: Tips and Tricks

9 September, 2023

Cooking rice may seem simple, but achieving the perfect texture and flavor can be an art. At Pragati Rice, we believe in providing you with the best quality non-basmati rice, and we want to help you master the art of cooking it to perfection. Whether you’re preparing aromatic Jasmine rice or hearty Parboiled rice, follow these tips and tricks to elevate your rice-cooking game.

 

1) Rinse Thoroughly: Before cooking, rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch, preventing the rice from becoming sticky or mushy.

2) Measure the Water: The right water-to-rice ratio is crucial. For most non-basmati rice varieties, use 2 cups of water for every cup of rice. However, for parboiled rice, use 2 ½ cups of water per cup of rice.

3) Soak the Rice (optional): Soaking the rice for 20-30 minutes before cooking can lead to fluffier grains. If you’re in a hurry, skip this step, but soaking can improve the texture.

4) Add Salt and Fat: A pinch of salt enhances the rice’s natural flavors, while a small amount of oil or butter adds richness. Stir them in before cooking.

5) Bring to a Boil: Place the rinsed rice and measured water in a pot with a tight-fitting lid. Heat the mixture until it comes to a boil over medium-high heat.

 

6) Reduce Heat and Cover: Reduce Heat and Cover: Once the water comes to a boil, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with the lid. This traps the steam, allowing the rice to cook evenly.

7) Avoid Stirring: Resist the temptation to stir the rice while it’s cooking. Stirring can release starch and make the rice stick together.

Use a Timer: Set a timer based on the rice variety you’re cooking. For white rice, cook for 15-18 minutes; for parboiled rice, cook for 20-25 minutes. Timing is crucial for achieving the desired texture.

Let it Rest: After the cooking time is up, remove the pot from the heat and let the rice sit, covered, for 5-10 minutes. During this “resting” period, the steam evenly distributes, leading to fluffier rice.

 

Fluff with a Fork: Gently fluff the rice with a fork before serving to separate the grains and enhance the appearance.

 

Bonus Tips:

For added flavor, consider using vegetable or chicken broth instead of water.

Experiment with herbs and spices like bay leaves, cinnamon sticks, or cardamom pods for aromatic rice.

If you’re using a rice cooker, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the best results.

Conclusion: Cooking the perfect non-basmati rice is an art that anyone can master with a little practice and these essential tips. At Pragati Rice, we take pride in providing you with premium quality rice varieties that serve as the canvas for your culinary creations. So, embrace these tricks, let your creativity flow, and savor the satisfaction of serving flawlessly cooked non-basmati rice to delight your taste buds and those of your loved ones. Happy cooking!