Basmati: The Secret to a Perfect Rice Meal

Basmati rice has been around for centuries. It comes from the foothills of the Himalayas, where farmers have been growing it for over a thousand years. The name "Basmati" actually means "fragrant" in Sanskrit, and that makes sense because the rich aroma Basmati sends across the whole house when it is being cooked cannot be mistaken. 

This rice isn’t new, but it has definitely gone global. It was once a luxury, reserved for kings and special occasions. Now, you’ll find it in kitchens all over the world, from Indian biryanis to West African jollof. Even if you just steam it and eat it with stew, it feels like you put in an extra effort- so extraordinary!

Also Read: Various Nigerian Rice Recipes for Different Occasions

Where Is Basmati Most Popular?

The biggest producers of basmati rice are India and Pakistan. They grow it in the perfect climate that us best for it- hot days, cool nights, and rich soil that gives the rice its unique texture and smell. In these countries, basmati is a part of daily life. It’s served with spicy curries, grilled meats, and rich, slow-cooked dishes.

But it doesn’t stop there. Basmati has made its way into African, Middle Eastern, and even Western kitchens. In West Africa, people love it for jollof rice because the grains stay separate and soak up flavors beautifully. In the Middle East, it’s the base for dishes like kabsa and mandi. And in the West, it's often the go-to rice for everything from pilafs to rice salads.

Also Read: Angwamo: How to Make Ghana's Oiled Rice

What Makes Basmati Different?

All rice is not the same. Basmati has some special qualities that set it apart:

It’s extra long – Basmati grains are longer than regular rice, and they get even longer when cooked. No short, stubby grains here.

It’s light and fluffy – The grains don’t stick together, which is why it works so well in so many dishes.

It’s aromatic – Basmati has a natural nutty, floral scent that makes it special. You don’t even need to add spices—just boiling it fills the kitchen with a warm, comforting smell.

It soaks up flavors – If you're making anything saucy, basmati is the best choice. It absorbs the seasonings without getting mushy.

Also Read: Top African Rice Dishes You Must Try

How Do You Cook Basmati Rice Right?

If you want restaurant-style basmati rice at home, here’s what you need:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups basmati rice
• 4 cups water
• 1 tablespoon butter or margarine
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Rinse the Rice: Place the basmati rice in a bowl and rinse under cold running water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming sticky.

2. Boil Water: In a medium-sized pot, bring 4 cups of water to a rolling boil over high heat.

3. Add Rice and Salt: Once the water is boiling, add the rinsed rice and a pinch of salt. Stir briefly to prevent the rice from clumping.

4. Cook the Rice: Allow the rice to boil uncovered for about 8–10 minutes, or until it's al dente (cooked but still firm).

5. Drain the Rice: Pour the rice into a sieve or colander to drain the hot water.

6. Steam the Rice: Return the drained rice to the pot, reduce the heat to low, and add the butter or margarine. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and let the rice steam for an additional 5–10 minutes. This step ensures the rice becomes fluffy and absorbs the buttery flavor.

7. Fluff and Serve: Once done, fluff the rice gently with a fork to separate the grains. Serve warm alongside your favorite Nigerian stews or sauces.

Note: While some Nigerian recipes may not traditionally include butter or margarine, adding it can enhance the flavor and help keep the grains separate.

Also Read: How to Cook Perfect White Rice Without It Sticking

Find Your Perfect Basmati Rice

At My Sasun African Market, we have some of the best basmati brands:

• Tropical Sun Golden Sella (5kg) – This one is parboiled, which means it holds its shape well. Great for jollof, fried rice, or anything saucy.
• My Sasun Basmati Rice (10lb) – Our very own! Soft, fluffy, and perfect for everyday cooking. If you eat rice often, this is a solid choice.
• Super Lucky Elephant (5lb) – If you like your rice soft and fragrant, go for this one. Perfect for plain rice with stew or grilled meat.
• Dunar Elonga & Festiva – Extra-long grains that look beautiful on the plate. If you want restaurant-style rice at home, these are great.
• Dunar Basmati Rice (10lb) – Same high quality as the others, just in a bigger bag. Good for families who cook a lot of rice.
• Goya Aged Basmati (5lb) – Aged rice has a stronger aroma and firmer texture. If you’re making biryani or pilaf, this is the one you want.

Also Read: How to Cook Perfect Jollof Rice Without Burning It 

Rounding Off

That’s it. Perfect, fluffy basmati rice every time. Time to stock up, friend! If you love rice, a good bag of basmati is a must-have. It works for so many dishes and instantly makes a meal feel complete. Stop by My Sasun African Market and grab your favorite brand. Your kitchen will smell amazing, and your food will taste even better.

What’s your favorite way to eat basmati? And what is your favorite brand to eat? Let’s talk about it in the comments!