Meal Prep · Indian
Plain Rice
The essential, perfectly cooked staple for any Indian meal.
Ingredients
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Step-by-step- Rinse the Basmati rice thoroughly under cold running water 2-3 times until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch.
- Soak the rinsed rice in 1.5 cups of fresh water for 15-20 minutes. This helps the grains cook evenly and become longer.
- Drain the soaked rice completely. In a heavy-bottomed pot or saucepan, add the drained rice, 2 cups of fresh water, and salt (if using) and ghee/oil (if using).
- Bring the water to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, stir gently once, then reduce the heat to the lowest setting.
- Cover the pot tightly with a lid and cook for 15-18 minutes, or until all the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
- Remove the pot from heat and let it rest, covered, for another 5-10 minutes. Do not lift the lid during this time.
- Gently fluff the cooked rice with a fork before serving immediately with your favorite curry or dal.
Nutrition
Per serving| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 200 kcal |
| Protein | 4 g |
Storage & Freezer Guide
Make it last Refrigerator 3-4 days
Store cooled rice in an airtight container to prevent drying out and bacterial growth. Ensure it cools quickly before refrigerating.
Freezer Up to 3 months
Spread cooled rice on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. This prevents clumping.
Reheat Stovetop/Microwave
For stovetop, add a splash of water and heat covered over low heat. For microwave, add a tablespoon of water, cover, and heat in short bursts until hot.
Chef’s Corner
- For perfectly separate grains, avoid stirring the rice too much once it starts cooking. This can break the grains.
- The water-to-rice ratio can vary slightly depending on the type and age of your rice. Adjust as needed for your preferred texture.
- Adding a few drops of lemon juice or a tiny bit of oil/ghee to the cooking water can help keep the rice grains separate and shiny.
