Method
- Place the basmati rice in a fine-mesh sieve and rinse under cold running water until the water runs clear. Set aside to drain.
- Wash and thoroughly dry fresh herbs. Finely chop parsley, cilantro, dill, and chives or green onion.
- In a medium pot, heat 1/4 cup vegetable oil over medium heat. Add chopped herbs and sauté for 5-7 minutes until fragrant.
- Add rinsed rice to the pot with herbs. Stir to combine. Pour in 4 cups of water and add salt. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Reduce heat to low, cover tightly, and simmer for 20 minutes undisturbed.
- Turn off heat, let sit covered for 10 minutes. Fluff gently with a fork.
- Transfer to serving dish. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons vegetable oil if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
Variations: Add cooked protein (chicken, shrimp, fish, chickpeas, lentils). For Tahdig, add oil and potato slices/lettuce leaves at the bottom before cooking. Stir in toasted nuts after fluffing. Add red pepper flakes or green chili for spice.