Ingredients
- 1 cup white rice (jasmine, basmati, or any variety you like)
- 1½ to 2 cups water (amount varies by rice type)
- A pinch of salt (optional, for taste)
Instructions
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Rinse the rice
Place the rice in a bowl or fine-mesh strainer and wash it under cold running water. Gently swirl the grains with your hand and drain. Repeat until the water is mostly clear to remove extra starch and help keep the rice from turning gummy. -
Prepare the cooking vessel
Transfer the rinsed rice into a rice cooker or a medium-sized pot. -
Add water and season
- For firmer, more separate grains, use about 1½ cups of water.
- For softer, more tender rice, use up to 2 cups of water.
Add a pinch of salt if you like a bit of seasoning.
-
Cooking with a rice cooker
Close the lid securely and press the “Cook” button. Allow the rice cooker to run until it switches to the “Warm” setting on its own. Avoid opening the lid while it cooks. -
Cooking on the stovetop
Place the pot over medium heat and bring the rice and water to a gentle boil. Once boiling, turn the heat down to low, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and let it simmer for about 15–20 minutes, or until all the water has been absorbed and the rice is tender. -
Rest and fluff
When the rice is done, leave it covered for another 5–10 minutes to steam and settle. Then uncover and gently fluff the rice with a fork or rice paddle to separate the grains.
Enjoy perfectly cooked, fluffy, and aromatic rice as a side dish or the base for your favorite meals!
