Sona Masoori is a medium-grain rice variety that originates from India and is primarily cultivated in South India. While not as well-known as Basmati rice, it remains easily accessible in India and at Indian grocery stores worldwide. It is available in both white and brown varieties and is commonly used in Indian cuisine.
Sona Masuri rice is characterized by its delicate texture, nutty flavor, and pleasant aroma. In addition to its taste, this variety of rice is also known for its health benefits and nutritional value. It is unpolished, easy to digest, and contains less starch than other rice varieties. This rice pairs well with South Indian curries, or you can simply enjoy it with ghee and salt. Additionally, Sona Masuri rice is a great alternative to Basmati rice in various South Indian pulaos, adding a unique and delicious twist to traditional recipes.
For perfectly cooked, soft, and fluffy Sona Masoori rice that holds its shape and isn't mushy, follow this comprehensive guide. I'll be sharing three cooking methods with you: Instant Pot main pot, Instant Pot pot-in-pot, and stovetop. Keep in mind that the rice-to-water ratio and cooking times will differ based on the method you choose.
Cooking this rice variety can be a straightforward process if you follow the right techniques. Regardless of your skill level in the kitchen, this article will provide you with all the necessary steps to prepare perfectly cooked Sona Masoori rice every time. From rinsing to cooking and serving, I've got you covered with all the tips and tricks you need to master this versatile grain.
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Why you will love this recipe?
- Clear instructions: This recipe has clear and concise instructions that are easy to follow, even for beginners.
- Accurate measurements: My recipe provides accurate measurements for both the rice and water to ensure that the rice is cooked to the correct texture.
- Serving suggestions: Unsure of how to serve this aromatic rice? Not to worry! Check out the recipes I've shared below that pair perfectly with this delicious rice.
- Using uncooked rice: Looking to add some flavor to uncooked rice? Try incorporating uncooked rice into the recipes I've shared below for a delicious and unique twist on this classic ingredient.
Ingredients
Sona masoori and water are the only ingredients you need. Traditionally, when making steamed rice, oil or seasoning is not added. Use filtered water where possible.
Step-by-step instructions
Take one cup of rice in a bowl and add water. Rub and wash the rice thoroughly. Wash 2-3 times until the water runs clear. Drain all the water.
Main Pot Method
Step 1: Transfer the washed rice along with 2 cups of water to the inner pot of the Instant Pot.
Step 2: Pressure cook for 5 minutes. Do a natural release of the pressure. Mix gently before serving.
Pot-in-Pot method
Step 1: Add one cup of water to the inner pot of the Instant Pot. Place a trivet on top. Add the washed rice to a bowl that fits the inner pot of the Instant Pot. Place it on the trivet.
Step 2: Add 2 cups of water and give it a good mix. Set the Instant Pot to pressure cook mode for 8 minutes. Do a natural release of pressure. Mix gently and serve.
Stovetop Method
Step 1: Place the washed rice in a thick bottom pan. Add 2½ cups of water and give it a good mix. Place it on high heat and bring it to a boil. Once it comes to a rolling boil, reduce the heat to the lowest setting.
Step 2: Cover with a tight-fitting lid. Let it simmer on low heat for 15-17 minutes, or until the water is fully absorbed. Turn off the heat and let it sit for another 10 minutes. Mix gently and serve.
Useful tips
In this recipe, I have used one cup of uncooked rice, which gives 4 cups of cooked rice. You can half or double the recipe as per your need.
Rinse the uncooked rice well to remove any dirt. Rinse 2-3 times until the water runs clear.
Use filtered water for cooking the rice where possible.
The rice-to-water ratio depends on the cooking method. For every cup of uncooked rice, we need 2 cups of water if we make it in an Instant Pot and 2.5 cups of water if we make it on a stovetop.
If you are making large quantities of rice, the main pot method is the best. However, for smaller quantities, you can use the pot-in-pot method. With PIP, you can also cook dal at the same time.
Serving suggestions
Serve steamed plain rice with these dals and curries:
Recipes to use uncooked sona masoori
Use uncooked rice for these recipes:
- Curd Rice Recipe (Mosaranna / Thayir Sadam)
- South Indian Cabbage Rice (Instant Pot)
- South Indian Lemon Rice (Instant Pot)
- Tomato Rice in Instant Pot (Vegan)
- Coconut Rice in Instant Pot
- Instant Pot Ven Pongal (Khara Pongal)
- Instant Pot Vegetable Pulao / Karnataka-style Veg Pulao
- Chana Dal Payasam (Instant Pot)
FAQs
It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This rice also freezes well and can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.
Sona masuri is an Indian variety of medium-grain rice which is a cross combination of Sona and Mahsuri varieties. It is widely cultivated and eaten in South India. You can buy this variety in Indian grocery stores and online stores.
Use a 1:2.5 rice-to-water ratio for brown rice and pressure cook in the Instant Pot for 20 minutes. Do a natural release of pressure.
Cooking more grains
To Conclude
To conclude, cooking sona masoori rice is a straightforward process that can be mastered easily. With the right techniques and tips, you can easily cook soft and fluffy Sona Masoori rice that's packed with flavor. With a little bit of patience and attention to detail, you'll soon be enjoying delicious and fluffy sona masuri rice as a side dish or main course for all of your favorite meals.
Whether you prefer to use an Instant Pot or stovetop, it's important to follow the proper steps, including rinsing the rice, using the correct rice-to-water ratio, and allowing the rice to rest before serving. With the comprehensive guide provided above, you can confidently prepare sona masoori rice that's perfect every time, and enjoy it as a delicious addition to your favorite dishes.
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Recipe card
How to Cook Sona Masoori Rice
Ingredients
- 1 cup sona masoori rice
- 2-2½ cups water depending on the method - see instructions
Instructions
Wash the rice:
- Take the rice in a bowl and add water. Rub and wash the rice thoroughly.
- Drain all the water.
Main Pot Method:
- Transfer the washed rice to the inner pot of the Instant Pot.
- Add 2 cups of water and give it a good mix.
- Secure the Instant Pot lid and set it to pressure cook mode for 5 minutes.
- Do a natural release of pressure.
- Mix gently and serve.
Pot-in-Pot Method:
- Add one cup of water to the inner pot of the Instant Pot. Place a trivet on top.
- Place the washed rice in a bowl that fits the inner pot of the Instant Pot. Place it on the trivet.
- Add 2 cups of water and give it a good mix.
- Set the Instant Pot to pressure cook mode for 8 minutes.
- Do a natural release of pressure.
- Mix gently and serve.
Stovetop Method:
- Place the washed rice in a thick bottom pan.
- Add 2½ cups of water and give it a good mix.
- Place it on high heat and bring it to a boil.
- Once it comes to a rolling boil, reduce the heat to the lowest setting.
- Cover with a tight-fitting lid. Let it simmer on low heat for 15-17 minutes, or until the water is fully absorbed.
- Turn off the heat and let it sit for another 10 minutes.
- Mix gently and serve.
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