BASMATI RICE

Makes 8 servings

Basmati rice is authentic Indian, long-grained, white rice,which has a unique, fragrant, nutty flavor. When cooking rice, the shorter the grain the higher the starch content. So, long-grain rice is lower in starch and will produce cooked rice with separate grains, not creamy and thick like risotto or sushi rice. Texmati is an aromatic rice that’s a cross between American long-grain rice and basmati and may be substituted.

This dish has an Indian or eastern flavor with the addition of raisins, cinnamon, and mustard seeds. Serve this flavorful rice dish with roast pork or turkey.

3 cups water

1½ cups basmati rice

¼ cup golden raisins

1 cinnamon stick

1 teaspoon mustard seeds

1 teaspoon coarse salt, plus more for seasoning

2 tablespoons chives, chopped

Freshly ground black pepper

• In a 3-quart heavy saucepan combine the water, rice, raisins, cinnamon stick, mustard seeds, and salt. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, stir, and cover. Cook the rice until the liquid is absorbed, about 20 minutes. Remove from the heat and let rest without removing the cover for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork. Add the chives, taste, and adjust for seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve immediately.