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How to Take Rice from Bland to Grand

Cooking more rice these days?

We sure are! Here’s a great way to add extra flavor to your favorite rice. Before adding the water and rice to your pan, the first step is to sauté a few of your favorite whole spices in melted butter or olive oil. Then add your rice and coat with the fragrant blend. Toast the rice a little before adding your water.

The Chef’s Tip:

Infuse your favorite whole spice combination into your rice for your new signature fragrant rice. My favorite blend is Cardamom Pods, Whole Cloves, and a Bay Leaf. Easily remove the spices when your rice has finished cooking with a fork or spoon, before stirring. They will float to the top. I like to use three of the main spice, so we always know to recover three of each at the end. Also, coating your rice grains with fat before introducing the water will help them stay separate. 

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Chef Joanna’s Favorite Fragrant Rice Recipe:

Serves 4

  • 2TBL Butter/Ghee/Favorite Cooking Oil
  • 1 ½ Cups Brown Basmati Rice – Or your favorite rice
  • 3 Cardamom Pods
  • 3 Whole Cloves
  • 1 Bay Leaf
  • 3 Cups of Water (or use water to rice ratio on your favorite rice package)

In pan, heat butter over med-low heat. Add Spices and simmer 2 minutes. Enjoy their beautiful aroma.

Add rice, stir, and toast for 2-3 minutes. Coating each grain with the fragrant blend.

Add water. Cover and bring to a boil. Turn heat down to a low simmer and cook for 30 minutes or according to instruction on rice package.

Add salt. Fluff rice with a fork and taste for doneness. If al dente or watery continue cooking 5-10 minutes.

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Did you make this recipe or your own fragrant rice? Share on social media and tag us (@souperbsoup)!