How to Cook Rice

How to Cook Rice Perfectly (Step-by-Step Guide)

What You Need:

✅ Rice – Any type you like (white rice, basmati, jasmine, brown rice, etc.)
✅ Water – Clean and fresh
✅ A pot with a lid – For cooking
✅ A strainer (optional) – For rinsing the rice
✅ Salt (optional) – For extra taste
✅ Butter or oil (optional) – For a richer flavor

Step 1: Measure the Rice

Decide how much rice you want to cook. A good rule is 1 cup of rice = 2 servings.

Step 2: Rinse the Rice (Important!)

Why rinse rice? Because it removes extra starch and makes the rice fluffy instead of sticky.

How to rinse rice:

1. Put the rice in a bowl or strainer.
2. Pour cold water over it.
3. Use your hands to swirl the rice around.
4. Drain the water and repeat 2–3 times until the water is clear.

Step 3: Measure the Water

The water-to-rice ratio is very important for perfect rice.

✅ White rice: 1 cup of rice → 2 cups of water
✅ Brown rice: 1 cup of rice → 2.5 cups of water
✅ Basmati or Jasmine rice: 1 cup of rice → 1.5 cups of water

Step 4: Boil the Water

1. Pour the measured water into a pot.
2. Add a pinch of salt and a little butter or oil if you like.
3. Turn the stove to high heat and bring the water to a boil.

Step 5: Add the Rice & Simmer

1. When the water is boiling, add the rice.
2. Stir once to spread it evenly.
3. Turn the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid.

Step 6: Let it Cook (Do Not Stir!)

💡 White rice: Cook for 15–18 minutes
💡 Brown rice: Cook for 30–40 minutes
💡 Basmati/Jasmine rice: Cook for 12–15 minutes

🚫 Do NOT open the lid while cooking! This lets the steam out and makes the rice dry.

Step 7: Check & Fluff the Rice

1. After cooking time is up, turn off the heat.
2. Let the rice sit (covered) for 5 minutes – this helps it absorb any extra moisture.
3. Remove the lid and use a fork to fluff the rice – never use a spoon, or it might get mushy!

Bonus Tips for Perfect Rice Every Time

✅ Use the right water ratio – Too much water makes it mushy, too little makes it hard.
✅ Always rinse the rice – It removes starch and makes it fluffy.
✅ Never stir while cooking – This makes it sticky.
✅ Let it rest after cooking – This helps it absorb moisture evenly.
✅ Use a rice cooker – If you struggle with stovetop cooking, a rice cooker makes it easy!

Best Ways to Use Cooked Rice

Once you’ve cooked your perfect rice, try it with:
🍛 Curries & stews – Soaks up the delicious flavors
🍚 Fried rice – Use leftover rice for a tasty stir-fry
🥗 Rice salads – Mix with vegetables and dressing
🌯 Rice bowls & burritos – A great base for healthy meals

Common Questions About Cooking Rice

❓ Why is my rice too sticky?
➡️ You may have used too much water or stirred it while cooking. Rinse well next time!

❓ Why is my rice hard?
➡️ You didn’t use enough water, or it needed more cooking time.

❓ Can I cook rice without a lid?
➡️ It’s best to cover it, but you can use foil or a plate if you don’t have a lid.

❓ What’s the best rice for beginners?
➡️ White rice or basmati rice is the easiest to cook.

Conclusion

Now you know how to cook perfect rice every time! Follow these simple steps, and soon you’ll be making fluffy, delicious rice like a pro. Try it today and enjoy! 🍚