Basmati rice is a great alternative to regular white rice. It has a lovely nutty aroma to it and cooks up very fluffy.
1 1/2 cup water
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup basmati rice
2 teaspoons lemon zest
1 1/2 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
1 pinch white pepper
Bring the water to a boil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the salt, basmati rice, grated lemon rind, and lemon juice.
Return the liquid to a boil then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the saucepan and let the rice cook for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
Add the thyme and white pepper and fluff the basmati rice with a fork.
Serve the rice hot.
Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to prevent the rice from sticking and burning.
Measure the water and rice accurately for the best results.
Simmer the rice on low heat so it cooks evenly.
Avoid stirring the rice while it's cooking to prevent it from becoming mushy.
Fluff the rice with a fork after cooking to separate the grains.
Adjust the seasoning to taste before serving.
Serve hot as a side dish with a variety of main courses.
Experiment with adding other citrus zests like orange or lime for variety.
Yes, you can use other long-grain rice varieties, but basmati rice is preferred for its unique aroma and texture.
Rinsing basmati rice helps to remove excess starch and improve the texture, but it's not mandatory.
Yes, you can use dried thyme, but reduce the amount to 1 teaspoon as it's more potent than fresh.
The rice is done when it's tender, fluffy, and all the liquid has been absorbed.
Yes, you can add herbs like parsley or cilantro, or spices like cumin or turmeric for different flavors.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Yes, you can make it in a rice cooker following the manufacturer's instructions for water-to-rice ratios.
Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled can be used in a pinch.
It's best served fresh, but you can reheat it gently with a splash of water to prevent drying out.
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reviews & comments
January 4, 2013
The light lemon taste pairs wonderfully with the slightly nutty flavor of the basmati rice. Very easy recipe that goes well with a variety of main dishes.