This post may contain affiliate links. Learn how to cook basmati rice perfectly every time–tender, fluffy, and fragrant! Follow my tips for how royal basmati rice cook basmati rice perfectly every time! Tender, fluffy, and fragrant, this no-fail basmati rice recipe comes together in just 20 minutes.

And it easy to make on the stovetop, but if you like, I included the rice cooker method as well. This No-Fail Basmati Rice comes together in just 30 minutes! This long grain rice is ideal for all of your Indian, South Asian and Middle Eastern dishes. When cooked properly, basmati rice is light, tender and fluffy – not sticky like other types of rice. This, combined with its fragrant taste, makes it a versatile rice to serve as a simple side that will go with virtually anything or as a bed to your favorite saucy dishes and stews. You do not have to soak basmati rice before cooking, and it is easy to make on the stovetop in just 20 minutes!

One of the easiest rice recipes you’ll make! What you’ll need to make it For the perfect basmati rice recipe, you only need four key ingredients–rice, extra virgin olive oil, water or broth, and Kosher salt. If you choose, you can add some additional flavors. Here are the ingredients I used in this recipe. Basmati rice – I have used both the Royal brand and Dunar brand with success, but you may find other options in your grocery store. Olive oil – While not a traditional ingredient, adding a splash of high-quality extra virgin olive oil is one of my secrets to making fragrant, tasty basmati rice. Water or Broth as your cooking liquid.

Use the right amount of cooking liquid. Any more or less will affect the texture of the rice. To avoid any potential issues of rice sticking to the bottom of your pot, just use a non-stick pot. Toast the rice before adding water. I like to start by toasting the rice in extra virgin olive oil first, this is not traditional but a great way to elevate the flavor and play up the nuttiness of the rice. Season the rice well with Kosher salt. Allow the rice to rest before serving.

Once the rice is fully cooked, let it sit undisturbed for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork. Rinse the rice with cold water until the water runs clear. Do not skip this step, it is crucial that you rinse the rice however many times it takes for the water to run clear. In your cooking pot or saucepan, heat a couple tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium-high and toss the rice to coat. This is a great way to amp up the flavor!