How to Cook Rice: A Complete Guide Backed by Experience and Expert Tips
Ingredients
1 cup long-grain white rice (e.g., basmati or jasmine)
1 ½ cups water
½ teaspoon salt (optional)
1 teaspoon butter or oil (optional)
Instructions
Rinse the rice under cold running water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents stickiness.
In a medium saucepan, combine rice, water, salt, and butter/oil if using.
Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat.
Once boiling, reduce heat to the lowest simmer and cover tightly with a lid.
Cook for 12–15 minutes without lifting the lid.
Remove from heat and let the rice sit covered for 10 minutes to allow the steam to finish cooking the grains.
Fluff gently with a fork and serve.
Notes
Chef’s Tip
- For added aroma, drop a bay leaf or cardamom pod into the pot while cooking.
- Want even lighter rice? Add a teaspoon of lemon juice to the water before cooking.