15+ Basmati Rice Recipes to Delight Your Taste Buds

Basmati rice is a popular choice for many meals, known for its fragrant aroma and fluffy texture. This versatile grain can be included in a variety of dishes, making it a staple in many kitchens. Whether you’re preparing a simple side dish or an elaborate main course, basmati rice can enhance your meal with its unique flavor.

In this article, you’ll discover a range of delicious basmati rice recipes that are easy to make and sure to impress. From savory pilafs to creamy rice puddings, these recipes will inspire you to get creative in the kitchen. Get ready to elevate your everyday meals with the wonderful taste of basmati rice!

1) Fragrant Basmati Rice Pilaf

Fragrant Basmati Rice Pilaf is a delicious dish that’s easy to prepare. The unique aroma of basmati rice pairs well with various spices, making it perfect for any meal.

To start, gather your ingredients. You will find that the right mix of spices enhances the rice’s natural flavor.

Cooking this pilaf creates a warm and inviting smell in your kitchen. You can serve it alongside various proteins or veggies for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 1 cup basmati rice
• 2 cups water or broth
• 1 tablespoon butter or oil
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
2. In a pot, heat butter or oil over medium heat.
3. Add onion and garlic; sauté until soft.
4. Stir in cumin seeds and bay leaf.
5. Add rice; cook for another minute, stirring constantly.
6. Pour in water or broth and season with salt.
7. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover.
8. Cook for 15 minutes or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
9. Fluff with a fork before serving. Enjoy!

2) Tomato and Basil Basmati

Tomato and basil basmati rice is a flavorful dish that’s simple to make. It combines the aroma of basmati with fresh tomatoes and fragrant basil. This dish works well as a side or main dish.

Start by cooking the basmati rice according to package instructions. In a separate pan, heat olive oil and sauté chopped onions. Once they’re soft, add minced garlic and diced tomatoes.

After the tomatoes cook down a bit, stir in cooked rice and fresh basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This dish is light and perfect for any meal.

Ingredients

• 1 cup basmati rice
• 1 ½ tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 ½ cups tomatoes, diced
• ½ cup fresh basil, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Rinse the basmati rice and cook it according to the package instructions.
2. In a pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft.
4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the diced tomatoes and cook until they soften.
6. Mix in the cooked rice and chopped basil.
7. Season with salt and pepper, then serve warm.

3) Curried Basmati with Vegetables

Curried basmati with vegetables is a flavorful dish that you will love. It combines the light, fragrant basmati rice with colorful, crunchy vegetables and aromatic spices. This meal is perfect for a simple weeknight dinner.

You can use any vegetables you have on hand, like carrots, peas, or bell peppers. The curry powder gives everything a wonderful taste that complements the rice nicely.

This dish is also great for those following a vegan diet. It’s healthy, filling, and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

• 1 cup basmati rice
• 2 cups water or vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• 1 cup mixed chopped vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
2. In a pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add the chopped vegetables and sauté for about 3 minutes.
4. Stir in the curry powder and cook for another minute.
5. Add the rinsed rice and water or broth. Bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until rice is cooked.
7. Fluff with a fork and enjoy your dish!

4) Basmati Chicken Rice Bowl

A Basmati chicken rice bowl is a delicious and simple meal that’s perfect for any day. The fragrant basmati rice pairs well with seasoned chicken, making it a fantastic choice for dinner.

Start by cooking the rice with chicken stock for extra flavor. As the rice cooks, you can prepare the chicken. Using spices like cumin and paprika enhances the taste.

When everything is ready, combine the rice and chicken in a bowl. You can also add your favorite vegetables for extra nutrition. Enjoy your flavorful and filling meal!

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups basmati rice
• 2 ½ cups chicken stock
• 2 chicken breasts, diced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Optional: vegetables (like bell peppers and broccoli)

Cooking Instructions

1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water.
2. In a pot, combine rice and chicken stock. Bring to a boil.
3. Lower the heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes.
4. While rice cooks, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
5. Add diced chicken, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is fully cooked (165°F or 74°C).
6. Fluff the rice with a fork and serve topped with the chicken and optional vegetables.

5) Lemon Herb Basmati Delight

Lemon Herb Basmati Delight is a refreshing side dish. The bright flavor of lemon pairs perfectly with fragrant herbs. This dish is simple to make and will add zest to your meals.

You’ll need basmati rice, lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, and herbs like parsley or basil. The fresh herbs really elevate the taste.

Ingredients

• 1 cup basmati rice
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lemon (juice and zest)
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Cooking Instructions

1. Rinse the basmati rice in cold water until the water runs clear.
2. Heat the olive oil in a pot over medium heat.
3. Add the rice and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, and herbs.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover.
6. Cook for 15 minutes, or until rice is tender.
7. Fluff with a fork and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy!

6) Spiced Coconut Basmati Rice

Spiced Coconut Basmati Rice is a flavorful dish that pairs well with many meals. The creaminess of coconut milk combines beautifully with spices, creating a delightful side.

To make this dish, you will need basmati rice, coconut milk, turmeric, garlic, salt, and black pepper. The spices lift the flavors and add a warm color to the rice.

Start by rinsing the basmati rice until the water runs clear. This helps remove extra starch. Next, cook the rice in a pot with coconut milk and water. Once it’s nearly done, add turmeric, garlic, salt, and black pepper.

Let the rice simmer until fully cooked. Fluff it up with a fork and enjoy it as a delicious side dish!

Ingredients

• 1 cup basmati rice
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 1 cup water
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Cooking Instructions

1. Rinse the basmati rice until the water is clear.
2. In a pot, combine rice, coconut milk, and water.
3. Add turmeric, garlic, salt, and black pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer.
5. Cook until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
6. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.

7) Classic Basmati with Saffron

Classic basmati rice with saffron is a beautiful and fragrant dish. The saffron adds a lovely golden color and a unique flavor that enhances the rice. It’s perfect as a side dish or even on its own.

To make this dish, start by rinsing your basmati rice until the water is clear. Soak it for about 30 minutes to help it cook evenly. This will ensure your rice is fluffy.

You will need water, saffron threads, and a few spices to bring out the flavors. Cooking the rice with a bit of broth can add even more richness.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup basmati rice
• 2 cups water
• 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Rinse the rice until the water runs clear.
2. Soak the rice in water for 30 minutes and drain.
3. In a pot, bring 2 cups of water to a boil.
4. Add the saffron and salt to the boiling water.
5. Stir in the rice and reduce heat to low.
6. Cover and cook for 15 minutes.
7. Fluff with a fork and serve.

8) Basmati Rice and Bean Wrap

This Basmati Rice and Bean Wrap is a tasty and healthy option for lunch or dinner. You can mix different beans and vegetables to suit your taste.

Start by cooking your basmati rice according to package directions. Once it is fluffy, let it cool slightly. You can use cooked beans like pinto or black beans.

Now, take a large tortilla and layer it with the rice, beans, and your favorite veggies. Try adding some salsa or cheese for extra flavor. Roll it up tightly and enjoy!

Ingredients

• 1 cup cooked basmati rice
• 1 cup cooked beans (like pinto or black)
• 1 large tortilla
• 1/2 cup mixed veggies (like bell peppers and onions)
• Salsa or cheese (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the basmati rice according to package instructions.
2. Prepare your beans if they’re not already cooked.
3. Lay the tortilla flat.
4. Add a layer of rice, beans, and veggies.
5. Add salsa or cheese if desired.
6. Roll the tortilla tightly and cut in half. Enjoy!

9) Garlic Butter Basmati Rice

Garlic Butter Basmati Rice is a simple and delicious side dish. It complements many main meals and is easy to prepare. The buttery garlic flavor makes it a favorite for many.

To start, you’ll need basmati rice, butter, and fresh garlic. You can also add a bit of salt and parsley for extra flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 cup basmati rice
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• Salt to taste
• Fresh parsley (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
2. In a medium pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
4. Stir in the rinsed rice to coat it in the garlic butter.
5. Pour in the broth, season with salt, and bring to a boil.
6. Lower the heat, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, until the rice is tender.

10) One-Pot Basmati Jambalaya

One-pot basmati jambalaya is a delicious, hearty dish that combines the wonderful flavors of Louisiana. It’s easy to make and perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

Start by cooking your basmati rice with sausage, chicken, shrimp, and a variety of veggies. The one-pot method makes clean-up a breeze.

This recipe is packed with spices to give it that classic Cajun kick. You will enjoy the smokiness of andouille sausage and the tenderness of the chicken.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups basmati rice
• 1 pound andouille sausage, sliced
• 1 pound chicken thighs, diced
• 1 cup shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. In a large pot, sauté the sausage and chicken until browned.
2. Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook until soft.
3. Stir in the basmati rice and broth.
4. Mix in the Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
6. Add the shrimp and cook for another 5 minutes until done.

11) Mediterranean Basmati Salad

Mediterranean Basmati Salad is a bright and flavorful dish. It combines the soft texture of basmati rice with fresh vegetables and a zesty dressing.

You start with cooked basmati rice as your base. Adding diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and red onions gives it a crunchy texture. Pitted Kalamata olives give a salty kick.

You can dress the salad with olive oil, lemon juice, and fresh herbs like parsley or mint. This adds fresh flavors that make the salad refreshing.

This salad is perfect as a side dish or a light main course. It’s easy to prepare and great for warm days.

Ingredients

• 3 cups cooked basmati rice
• 3 Persian cucumbers, diced
• 1 pint grape tomatoes, halved
• ½ red onion, finely diced
• ¼ cup pitted Kalamata olives
• Olive oil
• Lemon juice
• Fresh parsley or mint, chopped

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the basmati rice according to package directions.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, cucumbers, tomatoes, onion, and olives.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice.
4. Toss gently to combine.
5. Add chopped herbs and mix well before serving.

12) Sweet Cinnamon Basmati Pudding

This Sweet Cinnamon Basmati Pudding is a delightful dessert you can easily make at home. It combines the unique flavor of basmati rice with creamy milk and warm cinnamon.

You will enjoy the delightful aroma as it cooks. This pudding is perfect for a cozy evening or a special family treat.

Ingredients

• 1 cup basmati rice
• 4 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cooking Instructions

1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
2. In a pot, combine the rice and milk over medium heat.
3. Stir in the sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
4. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Remove from heat and add the vanilla extract.
7. Let it cool slightly before serving warm or chilled. Enjoy!

13) Basmati and Kale Stir-Fry

This Basmati and Kale Stir-Fry is a quick and healthy dish. You can make it in under 30 minutes. It’s perfect for lunch or dinner when you want something nutritious.

Start by cooking your basmati rice according to package instructions. While the rice cooks, heat some oil in a skillet.

Add chopped kale, garlic, and your favorite vegetables. Stir-fry everything until the kale wilts and the veggies are tender. Then, mix in the cooked basmati rice and season with salt and pepper.

This dish is colorful and packed with nutrients!

Ingredients

• 1 cup basmati rice
• 2 cups chopped kale
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (like bell peppers and carrots)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the basmati rice as directed.
2. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat (350°F/175°C).
3. Add garlic and mixed vegetables, stir for 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the chopped kale and cook until wilted.
5. Mix in the cooked rice and season. Enjoy!

14) Minty Pea Basmati Mix

This Minty Pea Basmati Mix is a refreshing dish that you’ll love. It combines basmati rice with bright green peas and fresh mint for a tasty side or main dish.

Start by cooking your basmati rice until it’s fluffy. In a separate pan, sauté some onions and garlic. Then, add in fresh peas and cook until they’re tender.

Next, mix in chopped mint leaves, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Combine everything with the cooked basmati rice. Toss gently to ensure all the flavors blend together.

Serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy it with grilled meats or as a light lunch.

Ingredients

• 1 cup basmati rice
• 1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt to taste
• 2 cups water

Cooking Instructions

1. Rinse the basmati rice until the water runs clear.
2. Cook the rice in 2 cups of water, bringing it to a boil, then simmering for 15 minutes.
3. In a pan, sauté onions and garlic until soft.
4. Add the peas and cook for 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in mint and lemon juice.
6. Combine the rice with the pea mixture and season with salt.
7. Serve warm or at room temperature.

15) Creamy Mushroom Basmati

Creamy Mushroom Basmati is a tasty dish that combines the rich flavor of mushrooms with fluffy basmati rice. The creaminess adds a nice touch, making it perfect for a meal on its own or as a side.

To start, sauté fresh mushrooms in a bit of olive oil until they’re golden brown. You can use baby bella mushrooms for a deeper flavor. Add minced garlic and diced onions for extra taste.

Next, blend in your cooked basmati rice. Pour in some cream to make it creamy and delicious. Sprinkle with herbs like thyme or parsley to enhance the flavor.

This dish is quick to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

• 1 cup basmati rice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1½ cups fresh mushrooms, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the basmati rice according to package instructions.
2. In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add mushrooms, garlic, and onion. Sauté until they are soft.
4. Stir in the cooked rice, then add the heavy cream.
5. Season with salt and pepper, and mix well.
6. Serve warm, garnished with herbs.