Discover the enchanting flavors of Thailand with our delightful recipe for Basmati Rice with Galangal! This aromatic dish combines fluffy basmati rice with the unique, peppery notes of galangal, creating a culinary experience that will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Southeast Asia. Perfect as a side dish or a base for your favorite Thai curries, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also promises to impress your guests at your next dinner party. Ready to elevate your rice game? Let’s dive into the details of this irresistible dish!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Thai
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Basmati rice
- Galangal
- Coconut milk
- Salt
- Water
Instructions
- Rinse the basmati rice thoroughly under cold running water until the water runs clear, removing excess starch and ensuring fluffy rice.
- Peel the fresh galangal root and finely mince or grate approximately 2 tablespoons of the aromatic rhizome, which will infuse the rice with a distinctive, sharp, and slightly peppery flavor.
- In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the rinsed basmati rice, minced galangal, coconut milk, water, and a pinch of salt. Use a ratio of 1 cup rice to
- 5 cups liquid for perfect texture.
- Stir the ingredients gently to ensure even distribution of galangal and to prevent rice from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low.
- Cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid and let the rice simmer for approximately 15-18 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb the liquid and the galangal to release its aromatic essence.
- Remove the pan from heat and let it rest, covered, for an additional 5 minutes to allow the rice to steam and become perfectly fluffy.
- Fluff the rice gently with a fork, releasing the fragrant galangal aroma, and serve hot as a delightful accompaniment to Thai dishes.
Tips
- Rinse the Rice: Always rinse your basmati rice thoroughly until the water runs clear. This step is crucial for removing excess starch, which helps achieve that perfect fluffy texture.
- Fresh Galangal: For the best flavor, use fresh galangal instead of dried. Its sharp, aromatic essence is what makes this dish truly special.
- Liquid Ratio: Stick to the recommended ratio of 1 cup of rice to
- 5 cups of liquid for optimal cooking. This ensures the rice absorbs just the right amount of moisture without becoming mushy.
- Simmering: Once the mixture comes to a boil, reduce the heat immediately. A gentle simmer is key to allowing the flavors to meld beautifully without overcooking the rice.
- Resting Period: Don’t skip the resting step after cooking! Letting the rice sit covered for an additional 5 minutes allows it to steam and become even fluffier.
- Fluffing: Use a fork to fluff the rice gently. This not only separates the grains but also releases the wonderful aroma of galangal, enhancing your dining experience.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair this fragrant rice with your favorite Thai dishes, such as green curry or stir-fried vegetables, for a complete and satisfying meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 293kcal
Carbohydrates: 41g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Cholesterol: 0mg
