Mahatma Basmati Rice

Cooking Directions on the Stove: 1. In a saucepan, bring water to a boil*. Stir in rice**. 3. Cover. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until all water is absorbed. * Cooking Measurement Chart: For dried rice, use 1/4 cup less water. For moister rice, use 1/4 cup more water. Rice: 1 cup; 1-3/4 cups water; 3 cups yield; 4 servings (3/4 cup cooked). 2 cups; 3-1/2 cups water; 6 cups yield; 8 servings (3/4 cup cooked). 3 cups; 5-1/4 cups water; 9 cups yield; 12 (3/4 cup cooked). Cooking Directions in the Microwave***: 1. In a 2 quart microwave-safe dish, combine 2 cups water and 1 cup rice**. 2. Cover and microwave on high for 5 minutes. Reduce setting to 50% power; microwave for 15 minutes. Let stand for 5 minutes. *** It is recommended that only 1 cup rice be prepared in the microwave at a time. Microwave ovens vary. Cooking times are approximate. ** Add 1 Tbsp butter and 1 tsp salt per cup of uncooked rice, if desired. Traditional Cooking Method in Excess Water: In a large pot, bring 8 cups of water to a boil. Measure 1 to 2 cups of Mahatma Basmati Rice and add to boiling water. Boil uncovered for 12 minutes. Drain in a strainer and rinse with hot water. Soak rice in cold water for 15 minutes before cooking and reduce cooking time to 10 minutes. Cooking Tips: Rice, Dress it Up! The versatility of rice is just one of its key benefits. Below are simply ways to make rice even more special. Starting with hot, cooked rice, Sprinkle with fried scallions, shallots, garlic or ginger; Add grated lemon zest, chopped fresh mint, a dab of butter and cooked peas; Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and sauteed onions; Season with toasted sesame oil or tamari; Stir in chopped dried fruit and toasted nuts. When preparing rice, Saute garlic, add rice and cook in chicken broth; Add whole cloves and a stick of cinnamon while cooking rice; Saute rice in oil to firm and toast the starchy exterior, for perfect pilafs.