While the ratios of rice-to-liquid is identical to the coconut rice recipe, we’ll be using a slightly different method by using heated broth. The broth (or water) should be very hot and nearly boiling.

To quickly and easily heat the broth, place in a heat-proof measuring cup and heat it for several minutes in a microwave. If you prefer, you can do this step on the stovetop too.

Cooked Diced Onion in Pot

Basmati Rice and Onion Pilaf Ingredients in Pot

Heating the broth allows the rice mixture to come to boil much faster, helping to cook the rice kernels evenly and preventing mushy rice.

It might sound trivial, but this recipe was tested using various methods and this small trick made a huge difference on the final rice texture. Please don’t skip it.

Cooked Basmati Rice Pilaf

How to Cook Rice Using the Absorption Method:

This recipe uses the classic absorption method, which means that the rice will completely absorb the cooking liquid.

Once the rice comes to boil, cover with a tightly fitted lid and cook for exactly 10 minutes. Remove from the heat, remove the lid, drape a kitchen towel over the top to absorb the steam, and cover with the lid. Allow the rice to sit off the heat for an additional 15 minutes.

Fluff with a fork, season with additional salt if necessary, and serve. You can garnish the rice with chopped flat leaf parsley, cilantro, or leave as is!

Basmati Rice Pilaf in Speckled Bowl