Rice is a versatile and affordable staple that can be part of many quick and easy meals. Texmati is a variety of long grain white rice that has a light, fluffy texture and pleasing aroma. With just a few simple steps, you can cook delicious texmati rice on the stovetop or in the rice cooker. Read on for tips and step-by-step instructions for cooking perfect texmati rice every time.
What is Texmati Rice?
Texmati rice is a variety of fragrant long grain rice grown primarily in Texas and Louisiana in the United States. It was developed in the late 1980s as an alternative to imported basmati rice from India and Pakistan.
Like basmati, texmati rice has elongated grains that are less starchy than other long grain rice varieties. When cooked, the grains separate easily and have a light, fluffy texture. Texmati has a pleasant floral aroma and a delicate, nutty flavor.
Some key features of texmati rice:
- Elongated grain shape
- Less starch content than regular long grain white rice
- Pleasant fragrance
- Fluffy, separated grains when cooked
- Subtle nutty taste
Compared to basmati, texmati rice offers a similar fragrance and flavor at a lower price point. It’s a great option for everyday meals, sides, rice salads, pilafs and more.
Texmati Rice Nutrition
Here is the nutritional value of cooked texmati white rice per 1 cup (195g) serving:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 242 |
| Protein | 4.4g |
| Carbohydrates | 53.2g |
| Fiber | 0.6g |
| Fat | 0.4g |
| Sodium | 154mg |
Some key vitamins and minerals:
- Thiamin: 7% DV
- Niacin: 5% DV
- Iron: 5% DV
- Magnesium: 11% DV
As you can see, texmati rice is a good source of carbohydrates and also provides some protein, iron, thiamin, niacin and magnesium. It’s relatively low in fat and sodium.
Rice is naturally gluten-free as well, making texmati a good option for gluten-free diets. Pairing rice with beans or lentils can provide a complete protein meal.
Cooking Texmati on the Stovetop
Here is a simple stovetop method for cooking fluffy texmati rice:
Ingredients
- 1 cup white texmati rice
- 2 cups water
- 1 tsp olive oil or butter (optional)
- 1/4 tsp salt
Steps
- Rinse rice under running water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch.
- In a medium saucepan, bring the water and salt to a boil over high heat.
- Once boiling, add rice and optional oil/butter. Give a quick stir.
- Return to boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover pot with tight fitting lid.
- Simmer for 15-18 minutes, keeping covered the entire time.
- Turn off heat and let rice steam with the lid on for 5 more minutes.
- Fluff rice with a fork and serve!
The olive oil or butter adds a touch of richness, but is not required. Some tips for perfect stovetop rice:
- Use a heavy bottomed saucepan with a well-fitting lid. This allows the rice to cook evenly.
- Keep the pan covered the entire time while cooking. Don’t lift the lid unnecessarily.
- Allow the rice to steam off heat for 5+ minutes before fluffing.
This 2:1 ratio of water to rice yields light, fluffy grains. Adjust cooking time as needed if you use more or less water.
Cooking Texmati in a Rice Cooker
A rice cooker is an easy, foolproof way to cook perfect rice with no monitoring required. Here’s how to make texmati in a rice cooker:
Ingredients
- 1 cup white texmati rice
- 1 1/2 cups water
- Pinch of salt (optional)
Steps
- Rinse rice to remove excess starch.
- Add rice and water to rice cooker pot. Add salt if desired.
- Close the lid and turn on the cooker, selecting the “white rice” setting.
- Allow rice cooker to complete cooking cycle. This usually takes around 20 minutes.
- After cooking, let rice steam for 10-15 minutes before opening lid.
- Fluff rice with a fork before serving.
Most rice cookers have a 1:1 1/2 rice to water ratio for white rice varieties. This allows the grains to fully absorb the water as it cooks, resulting in fluffy, tender rice.
Letting the rice steam after cooking allows excess moisture to absorb for dry, separated grains. The keep warm function will hold the rice at serving temperature until ready to eat.
Flavor Variations
Plain rice is versatile, but you can add different seasonings or ingredients to customize the flavor:
- Chicken broth: Use low sodium chicken broth instead of water for added flavor.
- Coconut milk: Substitute half the water with coconut milk.
- Lemon-Parsley: Add zest of 1 lemon and 2 tbsp chopped parsley.
- Curried Rice: Stir in 1/2 tsp curry powder, pinch of turmeric and cumin.
- Mexican Rice: Add 1 tsp cumin, garlic powder, diced tomatoes and chili powder.
Mix in vegetables like peas, carrots or corn for extra nutrition and color. Stir in fresh herbs, sautéed garlic or spices after cooking for instant flavor.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Here are some tips for storing and reheating leftover texmati rice:
- Let rice cool completely before transferring to an airtight container or zip top bag.
- Store rice in the refrigerator for 3-5 days.
- For longer storage, freeze rice for 2-3 months.
- Reheat rice in the microwave with a splash of water to restore moisture, about 1-2 minutes.
- Can also reheat in a saucepan over medium-low heat with a bit of butter or oil.
- Add a little fresh herbs or spices to amplify flavor.
The key is sealing out excess air and moisture when storing to prevent spoilage. Frozen rice can be thawed overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Common FAQs
What is the difference between texmati and basmati rice?
Texmati and basmati rice both have elongated, aromatic grains. Basmati originates from India/Pakistan while texmati is grown in the US. Basmati has a more pronounced floral aroma and Popcorn-like flavor. Texmati has a milder aroma and taste but is less expensive.
Can you replace basmati with texmati?
Yes, texmati can be used as a substitute for basmati in many recipes, like pilafs and biryani. The flavor will be slightly milder.
Is texmati rice healthy?
Texmati rice is relatively healthy as far as refined grains go. It provides carbohydrates, some fiber, B vitamins, magnesium and iron. It’s low in fat, sodium and gluten-free. For added nutrition, pair with vegetables, beans or lentils.
Should you rinse texmati rice?
It’s recommended to rinse texmati rice before cooking to remove excess starch. This helps prevent grains from sticking together. Rinsing also washes away grains’ outer coating for fluffier results.
Does texmati rice stick together?
Properly cooked texmati rice should have light, separated grains that are dry and fluffy. If rice is sticky or mushy, it likely was not rinsed, or overcooked with excess water. Using too little water can also cause sticking.
Cooking Tips
- Rinse rice before cooking to wash away extra starch.
- Use a heavy pot with a tight fitting lid for even cooking.
- For stovetop, simmer covered on low after bringing to a boil.
- Allow rice to steam off heat for 5-10 minutes after cooking.
- Fluff rice with a fork before serving.
- Add herbs, spices or ingredients after cooking for enhanced flavor.
Final Thoughts
Cooking fluffy, delicious texmati rice is easy with either the stovetop or rice cooker method. Be sure to rinse the rice first and use a ratio of 1 cup rice to 2 cups water for perfect grains. Let the rice steam after cooking for light, separated results. Add mix-ins like broth, coconut milk or spices to customize the flavor.
With its pleasant aroma, mild taste and fluffy texture, texmati rice is an affordable alternative to basmati that can elevate everyday meals. Keep your pantry stocked with texmati for quick weeknight sides, fried rice, pilafs and more.