Perfect Basmati Rice: Ideal Water Ratio – Neary

Aug 30, 2025Lou0 comments

Bowl of perfectly cooked basmati rice, loose grains and fluffy — Perfectly cooked basmati rice: long grains, fragrant, non-sticky.

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For perfect basmati rice , the ideal ratio is 1 part rice to 1.5 parts water . Rinse, cook covered without stirring, let stand. Result: airy and tasty grains 🥗.

Weigh your dry basmati rice, then rinse it in cold water until the water runs clear.
Drain well, then pour it into a saucepan with 1.5 times its volume of cold water and a pinch of salt.
Bring to a boil without a lid over medium heat.
Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover and cook without stirring until the water is completely absorbed (approximately 12 minutes).
Remove from heat, let stand with the lid closed for 5 minutes. Fluff the grains with a fork and serve hot 🔥.

Ratio : 1 rice / 1.5 water

Time : 12 min + rest

Texture : Airy, non-sticky

Perfect Basmati Rice: Ideal Water Ratio – Neary

By Lou – Updated August 30, 2025

Dreaming of light, fragrant, and never sticky basmati rice ? It all starts with the right water-to-rice ratio and a few simple steps. With our tips, no more sticky or waterlogged grains. Follow our guide to perfect basmati rice every time!

Why measure the water correctly for basmati rice?

Basmati rice is fragile, and its texture depends on the water ratio . Too much water: it becomes mushy, too little: it crunches under the tooth. The perfect ratio: 1 part rice to 1.5 parts water . This guarantees a light, fragrant result, with each grain well separated.

How to rinse basmati rice before cooking?

Don't skip this step! Rinsing the rice removes the starch that makes it stick. Place the rice in a bowl, cover with cold water, and stir gently with your hand. Change the water until it runs clear . Drain thoroughly.

The steps for foolproof basmati rice 🥗

Measure your dry rice (e.g. one glass).
Rinse thoroughly with cold water.
Pour into a saucepan with 1.5 glasses of water per glass of rice.
Boiling door without lid.
Reduce heat, cover and cook for 12 minutes without stirring.
Leave to stand for 5 minutes off the heat, then fluff with a fork.

Variation: in a rice cooker or in the microwave?

The ratio doesn't change! Put 1 part rice to 1.5 parts water in the bowl. Start the program. For the microwave, the principle is the same: cover tightly, cook in 5-minute increments at medium power, let stand covered at the end.

Little tips to enhance your basmati rice

Add a drop of olive oil or a knob of butter to the water for shiny grains.
Slip in a cardamom pod or bay leaf while cooking for a subtle fragrance.
For a local touch, try our organic IGP Camargue Rice : the basics remain the same!

Frequently asked questions about basmati rice and its water ratio

Can basmati rice be prepared in advance?: Yes! It can be kept in the fridge for 48 hours, then reheated over low heat with a spoonful of water to make it soft again.
Should I add salt to the cooking water?: Yes, a small pinch is enough to enhance the taste.
Why does my rice stick together despite the correct ratio?: Rinsing is essential. If you skip this step, the starch will cause clumps to form. Also, respect the covered resting time.