Basmati Rice

Directions

1. 1
   Wash rice in several changes of water, rubbing grains and letting them settle before pouring off water, until water runs clear.
2. 2
   Drain well in a sieve.
3. 3
   Bring rice and water to a boil in a 3-quart heavy saucepan.
4. 4
   Reduce heat to very low and cook, covered, until water is absorbed and rice is tender, 15 to 20 minutes.
5. 5
   Remove from heat and let stand, covered, 10 minutes.
6. 6
   Fluff gently with a fork.
7. 7
   Put rice and water in a 3-quart microwave-safe dish and cook, uncovered, on high power 15 minutes, or until steam holes appear in rice.
8. 8
   Cover dish with a microwave-safe lid or plate and cook on high 5 minutes more.
9. 9
   Let rice stand, covered, 5 minutes.
10. 10
    Fluff gently with a fork.
11. 11
    If using rice for preceding fried-rice recipe, chill, covered, 8 hours.