Have you ever wondered if boiling rice like pasta is the best way to cook basmati rice? Before pressure cookers and rice cookers became common, my mom used to cook rice using this drain method. Yes, just like pasta! And for years, this was the only way I knew how to make rice.
In this post, I'll show you how to cook rice like pasta, share my mom's tips, and help you decide if this method is the best for you! If you're curious how this compares with other cooking styles and water ratios, my Basmati Rice 101 guide breaks down every method in detail.
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How I Perfected My Rice Cooking Technique
Growing up in a typical South Indian family, rice was a staple for both lunch and dinner. Watching my mom cook it daily, I learned all the small tricks to get perfectly fluffy grains.
More than a recipe, cooking rice like pasta is a technique that needs attention. So, if you want hands-free rice cooking, check out my Instant Pot Basmati Rice Recipe or Rice Cooker Basmati Rice Recipe, which will use kitchen gadgets and yield fluffy rice.
Additionally, understanding the correct water-to-rice ratio is crucial for perfect rice. Read my basmati rice to water ratio guide to master the ideal proportions for different cooking methods.
Happy Cooking!
-Sravanthi
Traditional vs. Pasta Method - What's the Difference?
Detailed Steps
Step 1: Rinse the rice thoroughly under running water until the water runs clear. Learn the right way to rinse and soak basmati rice to remove extra starch and prepare the grains for even cooking.
Step 2: If you are soaking the rice, add 2 cups of water and soak the rice for about 30 minutes.
Step 3:Fill a pot with water and add the drained rice. You can also add rice to the boiling water, like pasta.
Step 4: Cook uncovered for about 7-10 minutes.
Step 5: Check for doneness. I usually cook the rice until it is barely tender, almost 90% cooked.
Step 6: Drain in a colander and rinse with water for a fluffier texture.
Step 7: Return the drained rice to the pot and let it sit for 5 minutes.
Step 8: Use a fork to gently fluff the rice before serving.
Pro Tip: Adding a few drops of oil or ghee while boiling enhances flavor and prevents sticking.
Is It the Best Method for Basmati Rice?
Boiling rice like pasta makes it easy to achieve fluffy, separate grains. However, it may not be the best choice for dishes that rely on fragrant, well-infused rice, like biryani or pulao.
If you are new to cooking, this method is excellent because you don't need to measure water precisely. To get the best results, monitor the rice closely and drain it once it reaches your desired consistency.
Recipe
How to Boil Rice Like Pasta
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Ingredients
- 1 cup rice I used basmati rice but any long-grain rice works.
- 5 cups water
- ½ teaspoon salt optional
Instructions
- Rinse the rice thoroughly under running water until the water runs clear.
- If you are soaking the rice, add 2 cups of water and soak the rice for about 30 minutes.
- Boil water in a large pot (Similar to the pasta cooking method)
- Add drained rice and stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Cook uncovered for about 7-10 minutes, checking for doneness.
- Drain in a colander and rinse with water for a fluffier texture.
- Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- This method scales well, and my mom cooked rice in large quantities for family gatherings. You will only need large utensils to scale the recipe efficiently.
- Depending on how long you cook it, the rice can be grainy for salads or sticky for puddings and porridges.
- While boiling, you can flavor the rice easily by adding spices, broth, or herbs.
- Any rice works with this method, but the cooking time will vary depending on factors such as the quantity of rice, the amount of water, the heat level, and the size of the utensil.
- White rice will take around 10 minutes, and brown rice will roughly take 20 to 30 minutes.
Nutrition
Have you tried this method before? Which one do you prefer: Stovetop Basmati Rice, Instant Pot Basmati Rice, Rice Cooker Basmati Rice, or this Pasta-Style Basmati Rice? Let me know in the comments below, I'd love to hear which one gives you the fluffiest rice!
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