How to Cook Rice
Cooking rice properly is an important skill for any chef. There are many different ways and methods for cooking- from boiled to steamed, fried and in a rice cooker! Here’s a quick guide to help you get started.
Boiled Rice
This is the simplest method of cooking-rice:
- Rinse 1 pot of long-grain white rice under cold water, then drain.
- Bring 2 cups of water to a boil in a large saucepan.
- Add the rice, stir, then cover and reduce to a low simmer.
- Simmer for 15-20 minutes, then remove from heat and let steam, covered, for an additional 10 minutes.
- Fluff with a fork before serving.
Steamed Rice
This method of cooking rice is a bit more complicated, but still can get the job done:
- Bring 1.5 cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan.
- Wash and drain 1 pot of long-grain white rice.
- Add the rice to the boiling water. Stir, then reduce to a low simmer.
- Wait for the water to be fully absorbed into the rice.
- Once the rice is tender and all the water is absorbed, remove from heat.
- Line a steamer basket with a damp cloth, then fill it with the rice. Place the basket in a larger pot with ½ – 1 inch of boiling water.
- Cover the pot and let steam for 15-20 minutes.
- Fluff with a fork before serving.
Fried Rice
This is a great option for those who want to add some additional flavor to their rice:
- Cook 1 pot of long-grain white rice according to the method of your choice.
- Heat a wok or large skillet over high heat.
- Once hot, add 1 tablespoon of oil and swirl to coat pan.
- Add your desired ingredients, such as veggies and/or protein, and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes.
- Add cooked rice and stir-fry for an additional 2 minutes.
- Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper, to taste.
- Continue to stir-fry until everything is combined and heated through. Serve hot.
Rice Cooker
This is probably the most convenient and easiest way to cook rice:
- Add 1 pot of (uncooked) long-grain white rice to the inner pot of your rice cooker and rinse with cold water.
- Add 2 cups of water.
- Close the lid and press the “Cook” button.
- Once the cycle is complete, let the rice stand, covered, for 10 minutes.
- Fluff with a fork before serving.
Now you have the knowledge and the means to cook perfect rice every time!
