- Why did the rice become sticky?
- You likely overcooked it or stirred it too much. Basmati rice must be left alone while cooking!
- Can I use brown rice?
- Yes, but the cooking time is 40-45 minutes, and it requires more liquid.
Prebiotic spiced leek & basmati rice
Leek is the onion's elegant, sweeter cousin, containing plenty of inulin (prebiotic fibre). In this recipe, it's not just a seasoning but a main character: the sweetness of caramelised leek and the warmth of curry spices make this rice a standalone dish or a rich side. The pilaf technique (frying the rice) ensures the grains remain fluffy.
Ingredients
250
g
Basmati rice
2
stalks
Leeks (white and light green parts)
3
tbsp
Olive oil
2
cloves
Garlic
1
tsp
Whole caraway (or cumin seeds)
1
tsp
Curry powder
2
tbsp
Soy sauce
1
tsp
Salt
0.5
tsp
Ground black pepper
500
ml
Hot water
Shopping List (0)
Equipment Needed
- Heavy-bottomed saucepan with lid
- Knife
Allergen Information
Cereals containing gluten
Soya
Instructions
1
✓
Wash the rice thoroughly until the water runs clear, then drain. Slice the leeks into rings and chop the garlic.
Tip: Slice the leek lengthwise before chopping and wash out any soil from between the layers!
2
✓
Sauté the leeks in the oil over medium heat for 5-6 minutes until collapsed and starting to brown slightly.
Tip: Caramelisation brings out the onion's natural sugars, forming the flavour foundation of the dish.
3
✓
Add the garlic, caraway/cumin, and curry powder. Fry for half a minute until fragrant.
Tip: Spices 'bloom' in heat: fat-soluble aroma compounds are released.
4
✓
Pour in the rice and fry ('toast') for 1-2 minutes until the grains start to turn translucent.
Tip: This step coats the rice grains with fat, helping them stay separate during cooking.
5
✓
Pour in the hot water and soy sauce, season with salt and pepper. Once boiling, turn the heat to the lowest setting and cover.
Tip: The correct water-to-rice ratio (usually 2:1 or 1.5:1 depending on rice type) is critical for perfect texture.
6
✓
Steam under the lid for 12-15 minutes. Do not lift the lid!
Tip: Steam is key. If you remove the lid, heat and moisture escape, and the rice cooks unevenly.
7
✓
Turn off the heat and let it rest under the lid for another 10 minutes. Only fluff up with a fork before serving.
Tip: During resting, the rice absorbs the remaining steam, and the grain structure firms up.
Recipe FAQ
Ingredients
- 250 g Basmati rice
- 2 stalks Leeks (white and light green parts)
- 3 tbsp Olive oil
- 2 cloves Garlic
- 1 tsp Whole caraway (or cumin seeds)
- 1 tsp Curry powder
- 2 tbsp Soy sauce
- 1 tsp Salt
- 0.5 tsp Ground black pepper
- 500 ml Hot water