Tired of mushy brown rice? This simple stovetop method makes perfectly cooked brown basmati rice every time. There is no soaking, no complicated water ratios and no guesswork. Just fluffy, separate grains of brown rice every time.
Quick Answer: Brown basmati rice is best cooked using the boil-and-drain method. Rinse the rice, cook it uncovered in plenty of water for 25 minutes, drain well and let it rest for 3 minutes before fluffing with a fork. No soaking required.
Likewise, if you are tired of mushy white rice too, I have a perfect recipe for fluffy white basmati rice.
You can serve this rice with all sorts of dishes, from split peas dal, Dishoom’s black dal, Paneer curry, Chana Masala and more. They also make a delicious base for seasoned rice like Thai Pineapple fried rice too.
Jump to:
Why This Method Works?
- No soaking required.
- No rice cooker or Instant Pot needed.
- No precise water measurements to worry about.
- Produces fluffy, separate grains every time.
- Works with most varieties of brown rice.
Sandhya's Top Tips
- Rinse the rice at least 3-4 times before cooking to help keep the grains separate.
- Use a large saucepan with plenty of water.
- Cook the rice uncovered for easier monitoring and better texture.
- Allow the rice to rest for a few minutes before fluffing.
- Brown basmati rice can vary by brand, so check for doneness around the 25-minute mark.
Brown Basmati Rice Water Ratio
For this boil-and-drain method, use 3 cups of water for every 1 cup of brown basmati rice. This method cooks the rice in excess water and drains it at the end, so you don't need exact measurements.
How to Cook Perfect Brown Basmati Rice?
Step 1: To cook my Whole grain Brown basmati rice on the stove top, start by rinsing the rice in clean water 3-4 times until the water runs clear. Swirl the rice gently in the same direction to avoid breaking the tips. Drain the rice.
Step 2: Add the rice to a medium saucepan with 3 cups of water and bring it to a boil. Cook uncovered on medium heat for 25 minutes.
Step 3: After 25 minutes, drain the rice and cover the pot with a lid. Let it stand for 3 minutes to steam and absorb any excess moisture.
Step 4: Fluff the rice with a fork and it’s ready to serve!
Serving Suggestions
- Serve Brown rice as a side dish with your favourite curry / dal like Paneer butter masala,yellow split peas dhal, tarka dal,chickpea tikka masala, creamy aubergine curry and more.
- Use Brown rice as a base for Burrito bowls or Sweet Potato Buddha bowls.
- Use in seasoned rice recipes like Vegetable Fried rice, Honey Soy fried rice and Mexican rice
How to Store Brown Basmati Rice?
Store the leftover brown basmati rice in the fridge or freezer to enjoy later.
- Fridge: To store in the fridge, allow the rice to cool completely and store in an airtight container for 3-4 days. Reheat by steaming, microwaving, or pan-frying with a little oil or butter.
- Freezer: To store in the freezer, cool the rice completely and store in a sealed container or freezer-safe bag for up to 6 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight or in cold water, then reheat as above.
- To Thaw: When you're ready to use the frozen rice, simply microwave it until it's thoroughly heated. Make sure to stir it occasionally to ensure even heating.
Brown Basmati Rice FAQ's
Brown Basmati rice is a type of long-grain rice that has a distinct light brown colour and a nutty flavour.
Brown rice keeps its bran and germ layers, which provide fibre, vitamins and minerals. White rice loses these outer layers during processing. This makes it a healthier option for those looking to add more whole grains to their diet.
You'll find wholegrain brown basmati rice in most UK supermarkets, including Tesco, Waitrose, Sainsbury's, Morrisons and ASDA.
In the UK, you can find various brands, ranging from supermarket own-brand options to premium choices like Tilda Whole Grain Brown Basmati Rice.
There's no need to soak Basmati rice before cooking for this boil and drain method. I find soaking may actually cause the rice to become too soft or mushy when cooked.
Yes, it is recommended to rinse Brown rice before cooking. Washing the rice 3-4 times in clean water is necessary to remove debris and excess starch that can cause the rice to stick together when cooked.
It takes only 25 minutes. The process is very similar to cooking pasta. Then simply drain and rest for a few more minutes.
Your brown rice may be a bit undercooked and may need a few extra minutes or the grain may be older/thicker.
Yes. Simply cool the brown rice quickly. Then freeze in portions and reheat until steaming hot.
For the boil-and-drain method, use plenty of water to cover the rice. Think of cooking dried pasta.
More Easy Rice Recipes You'll Love
Ingredients
- 1 cup brown basmati rice 120 g
- 3 cup water 700ml
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Rinse rice in clean water 3-4 times until water runs clear. Drain.1 cup brown basmati rice, 3 cup water, Salt to taste
- Add rice and 3 cups of hot water from the kettle. Bring to boil and cook uncovered for 25 minutes on medium heat.
- Drain, cover, and let it steam for 3 minutes.
- Fluff with a fork and serve.
Notes
Quick Tips
- Use 3 cups of water for every 1 cup of brown basmati rice.
- Rinse the rice before cooking.
- Cook uncovered for the best texture.
- Drain as soon as the rice is tender.
- Let it rest for 3 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
- Freeze leftovers for easy meal prep.
Michaela Stone says
Simply perfect brown basmati rice. I made it for the first time. Thought it is going to be difficult, but it was easier than ever. I am going to use this recipe every single time.
Christopher says
Add salt, pepper, 5 crushed cardamon pods and 3 star anise, and savour the result!
Sandhya's Kitchen says
Absolutely that's how we like our Plain pilau rice without veggies. With fragrant whole spices.