Jasmine Rice Cooking Tips

Jasmine and Basmati rices are probably my two favorite of the white rices.  Long grain, wonderful texture, and aromatic, they make up for a stand out product. While cooking some a week or so ago, I started reading the back of the package and was pleasantly surprised with the wealth of information on the back.  They give tons of cooking tips! 

Here’s everything they recommend:

Preparing Aromatic Rice

• Adding lemon peel shortly before rice has finished cooking gives it a light, bright flavor.
• For perfect pilafs sauté rice in oil to firm and toast the starchy exterior.

Rice: Dress it Up! The versatility of rice is just one of its key benefits.  Below are some simple ways to make aromatic rice more special.

Starting with hot, cooked rice…

• sprinkle with friend scallions, shallots, garlic or ginger.
• add grated lemon zest, chopped fresh mint, and dab of butter and cooked peas
• stir in peanut butter and chopped scallions and top with chopped peanuts
• stir in grated Parmesan cheese and sautéed onions
• season with toasted sesame oil or tamari
• stir in chopped dried fruit and toasted nuts

When preparing…

• Sauté garlic, add rice and cook in chicken broth.
• Cooking Jasmine rice in jasmine tea intensifies its sweet floral flavor.
• Substitute a combination of chicken broth and white wine for water.
• Cook rice with a few saffron threads; stir in cooked peas.
• Cook with shitake mushrooms for an earthy, smoky flavor.

Here are some quick tips for cooking with Thai Jasmine.  Seasonings typically prepared with jasmine rice: lemongrass, cilantro, hot chilies, fish sauce, lemons or limes, basil, coconut milk, nuts, fruits, garlic, shallots, and hot & flavorful curries. Cooked jasmine rice remains soft when chilled, making it an excellent choice for salads or silky rice puddings.

Mahatma Brand Basmati and Jasmine Rices

As you can see, they give you a large variety of options that will go with a number of types of cuisine.  Typically, product suggestions and recipes can be found on the packaging that items come in.  So, if you are stuck on what to make with it or how to prepare it, just check the back of the package.  A good time to do this is while you are in the grocery store. That way, you can get everything that you need in advance.

Take a look at Mahatma Rice.

Have you tried serving suggestions recommended my the manufacturer? How did it turn out?  Leave me a comment below and tell me about it.

Cheers.

3/22/12 Update: I just came across this post via Grist.org by Twilight Greenaway.  Check out her new twist on our old favorites! “This recipe could change the way you look at rice.”