With the addition of a little flavouring, rice can easily be enhanced and provide a more interesting accompaniment for a meal.  

The benefit of the following technique is that not only can you massively enhance the rice, but it also provides a method to keep rice warm for up to 2 hours before serving - a killer technique for bringing together a good meal with company.

This recipe will provide 6 generous portions.

1. Wash 400g basmati rice until it runs clear of starch.
2. Simmer the basmati in 600ml of vegetable stock for about 20 minutes until almost tender.
3. Zuzz together 2 tbsp olive oil, 2 garlic cloves, salt and pepper, a chopped onion and a handful of coriander and spinach or parsley until they are smooth.  Alternatively, replace these herbs with others, or 4 tsp paprika or your favourite spice.  You can also experiment with chillis and tinned or pureed tomatoes, for example.
4. Stir this puree gently over a low heat in a pan for 5 minutes to cook through.
5. Add the rice to the pan and stir until it's well coated in the herb or spice mix.
6. Place in an ovenproof dish and cover with baking parchment / paper and a lid, and put in a pre-heated oven at 120C/225F/Gas 1 for 30 minutes to finish cooking, and to absorb the flavours.  

The rice can be left alone in the oven like this for up to 2 hours before you're ready to serve.

We're currently offering this rice with some of our meal choices for collection or delivery.