Simple Plain Rice

MAKE PERFECT WHITE RICE EVERY TIME WITH THIS RECIPE. THEN TRY THE NEXT STEP IF YOU WISH – TEMPER THE RICE TO ADD FURTHER FLAVOUR OR BOIL WITH A BOUQUET GARNI OR FLAVOURED STOCK. ALWAYS CHECK IF THE RICE IS COOKED BY TESTING IT WITH A FORK.

SERVES 4 | PREPARATION TIME: 5 MINUTES | COOKING TIME: 20 MINUTES

PANTRY/LARDER

250g basmati rice, thoroughly washed

½ teaspoon salt, or to taste

2 teaspoons ghee (optional)

1. In a medium saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, mix the rice, 500ml hot water and salt and bring to the boil. Gently stir once, cover with the lid and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for about 18 minutes.

2. Keep the lid on and remove the pan from the heat. Leave to stand, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff up with a fork and gently stir in the ghee, if using, before serving.

NOTE: To make a different quantity of rice, always use 1 measure of uncooked rice to 2 measures of water.