Brown basmati rice is a nutty, long-grain aromatic rice with a pleasant chewy texture and slightly floral flavor. It's becoming increasingly popular as a healthier alternative to white rice, as it retains its nutritious bran layer, which is rich in fiber, antioxidants, and essential vitamins and minerals. Cooking brown basmati rice perfectly requires a little more patience and attention compared to its white counterpart, but the result is a flavorful and satisfying dish that can elevate various cuisines. In this article, we will provide step-by-step instructions and helpful tips to achieve the perfect texture and taste every time. We'll also explore the numerous health benefits of brown basmati rice and suggest delicious and creative recipes to incorporate this wholesome ingredient into your meals.
Check out the recipes below so you can choose the best recipe for yourself!
BROWN BASMATI RICE -- BASIC PREPARATION
A lot of people seem to have trouble with brown rice, getting the texture right and so on. This is the way I have figured out, with a little help from a Madhur Jaffrey cookbook, and I can honestly say I feel like an expert now! The place where many cooks mess up is using too much water -- it can make the rice gloppy. This basic preparation is perfect to use anywhere you need unflavored cooked rice -- fried rice, soup, or just to serve with a spicy curry. I try to keep some cooked up in the fridge at all times.
Provided by Spice Princess
Categories Brown Rice
Time 45m
Yield 6 cups, 6 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 2
Steps:
- First, put the rice in a strainer inside a bowl and wash it well. I usually change the water in the bowl at least 3 times. The water doesn't need to run completely clear, but it should not be very cloudy or brownish when the rice is washed. Leave the rice in the strainer to drip out for at least a few minutes.
- Put the rice and water in a saucepan with a tight-fitting lid and bring just to a boil over high heat. You don't want it to really boil, as soon as you start to see the bubbles, put on the lid and turn the heat down to very, very low (on my electric stove, I put it between "lo" and 1).
- Resist the temptation to take off the lid and check the rice too much. After about 25 minutes you can check it once and see how much water is left. I do this by sticking a wooden spatula down into the rice and pushing it to the side a little. If there is still water, push the rice back together, put the lid back on, and let it cook a few more minutes. Do not stir or disrupt the rice any more than you have to. It will take about 30 to 35 minutes for it to finish cooking.
- When all the water is absorbed, there will still be sort of a mushy layer at the bottom of the pot. Take the pot off the heat and leave undisturbed for at least 10 minutes. You can really leave it there as long as you like -- the moisture at the bottom will even out and the finished rice should be slightly al dente with all the grains separate.If there are a few clumps, just break them up with a fork or your fingers before serving or storing.
- If you plan to use the rice for fried rice, I would recommend refrigerating it for at least 6 hours, but overnight is better, so plan ahead!
BROWN BASMATI RICE
Steps:
- Cook rice in salty water for about 45 minutes until al dente. Drain and season with pepper before serving.
BROWN BASMATI RICE WITH APPLES AND RAISINS
Another easy recipe to prepare, especially useful if you have leftover rice. Try this with lamb or chicken! From www.sunmaid.com.
Provided by COOKGIRl
Categories Brown Rice
Time 50m
Yield 5 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 6
Steps:
- Cook the basmati rice until tender and liquid absorbed. (If using leftover rice, heat thoroughly.) Do not add any oil or salt to the rice. Keep warm.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, toast the almonds until light golden brown, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
- Next add the curry powder, cooking for about 1-2 minutes or until curry powder is fragrant, again being careful not to burn.
- Add the Granny Smith apple, raisins and green onion. Stir gently and heat through.
- Season with salt to taste.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 191.2, Fat 3.4, SaturatedFat 0.4, Sodium 5.1, Carbohydrate 38.5, Fiber 3.1, Sugar 12.1, Protein 3.9
BROWN BASMATI RICE WITH SORREL AND LEMON
Fresh sorrel and lemon give this rice dish a nice tang. This recipe uses a rice cooker but can be easily achieved in a pot stove top.
Provided by Rita1652
Categories Lemon
Time 55m
Yield 4 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 9
Steps:
- Start the rice cooker.
- Add 1 tablespoon butter melt and then add celery, garlic, onion, and saute till tender.
- Add sorrel lemon zest and rice stir to coat. Add enough water to top rice by and inch, (about 3 cups water).
- Cook till ricer beeps add peas toss and toss with additional butter.
- Season with salt and black pepper taste.
BROWN BASMATI RICE PANCAKES
These are a crispy, savory fried "pancake" which I serve with a yellow split pea soup. The original recipe came from a Consumer Reports Rice cookbook which I've liberally changed. I fry them on cast iron, because it holds the heat best. Whatever pan you use, make certain it's good and hot.
Provided by OliveLover
Categories Brown Rice
Time 30m
Yield 12 cakes, 4 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 8
Steps:
- Mix cooked rice with salt, pepper, beaten eggs, onion and cilantro, blending well.
- Fold in peas, (don't worry about thawing unless covered with ice).
- If using cast iron, get the pan smoking hot and add the oil. If using a non-stick skillet, just heat the oil.
- Place a spoonful of the rice mix in the oil and spread out so it's about 3" across. (I can get 4 in my 10" pan.)
- Fry on one side until the pancake holds together. Turn and brown the other side.
- Keep the first ones hot while you do the rest.
Tips:
- Choose the right basmati rice: Opt for aged basmati rice for a more distinct flavor and better texture.
- Rinse the rice thoroughly: This removes excess starch, preventing the rice from becoming sticky.
- Use the correct water-to-rice ratio: For fluffy, separate grains, use 1.5 cups of water for every cup of rice.
- Season the rice before cooking: Add salt, cumin seeds, and bay leaves for a more flavorful dish.
- Cook the rice over low heat: This allows the rice to cook evenly without burning.
- Let the rice rest before serving: This helps the rice absorb any remaining moisture and prevents it from becoming soggy.
Conclusion:
Brown basmati rice is a delicious and healthy whole grain that can be enjoyed as a side dish or as part of a main course. With its nutty flavor and fluffy texture, brown basmati rice is a versatile grain that can be paired with a variety of dishes. Whether you're looking for a simple side dish or a more elaborate meal, brown basmati rice is a great option that is sure to please everyone at the table.
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