Basmati rice is one of the highest quality varieties of long-grain rice. Known for its distinct aroma and fluffy texture, the word ‘basmati’ derives from the sanskrit word vasmati, meaning ‘fragrant’. A highly versatile ingredient, basmati rice is easy to cook and makes the perfect accompaniment for Indian curries – although as this collection of basmati rice recipes demonstrates it is by no means limited to being a mere side dish.

Biryani, a delicious mixed rice dish flavoured with a variety of meat and vegetables, is perhaps the most common use of basmati rice, and there are a number of inspirational biryani recipes in this collection. Shu Han Lee discusses the many benefits of using rabbit for her baked biryani with yogurt, ginger and garlic marinade. For a more heavily spiced curry, try Sumayya Usmani’s traditional Pakistani beef biryani recipe — the ultimate comfort food and all made in one pot.

Basmati rice is traditionally used as the base for kedgeree, a classic British breakfast recipe where the rice’s delicate aroma and pure flavour takes centre stage. Graeme Taylor serves his Smoked haddock kedgeree with a poached egg for an extra luxurious finish, while Alfred Prasad uses both basmati rice and lentils to make a delicious and filling meat-free meal in his vegetarian kedgeree recipe.