Perfect Fluffy Basmati Rice

Ingredients

• 1½ cups White Basmati Rice
• 2¼ cups water
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp butter or oil (optional)
• 2-3 cardamom pods (optional)
• 1 bay leaf (optional)

Instructions

1. Rinse rice in cold water 3-4 times until water runs clear. This removes excess starch.
2. In a medium pot, combine rinsed rice, water, and salt. Add butter and whole spices if using.
3. Bring to a boil over high heat, uncovered.
4. Once boiling, reduce heat to lowest setting, cover with a tight-fitting lid.
5. Cook for 15 minutes without lifting the lid.
6. Turn off heat and let rice rest, covered, for 5 minutes.
7. Fluff with a fork, remove whole spices, and serve.