Unlock the secret to perfectly cooked white rice with this straightforward stovetop method. Ideal for any rice variety, be it short, medium, or long grain, this recipe ensures fluffy, tender rice every time. Suitable for a range of dishes, from a simple chicken dinner to an elaborate Asian feast, this recipe is a must-have in your culinary journey.
Jump to:
As a staple in Indian and Asian cuisines, rice is incredibly versatile. This guide demystifies the process, making it easy to achieve the perfect texture in less than 30 minutes. Say farewell to the woes of sticky or mushy rice with our clear, step-by-step instructions.
Whether you're complementing a spicy curry, a quick stir-fry, or a hearty roasted dish, this plain rice will elevate your meal.
Explore a Variety of Rice Dishes:
- Chicken Biryani
- Chicken Fried Rice
- Mexican Rice
- Baked Chicken and Rice
- Hainanese Chicken Rice
- Nasi Goreng
Ingredients Overview
Cooking perfect rice requires just two simple pantry staples. Let's take a look at these essential ingredients:
- White Rice: Medium-grain white rice is used here, but feel free to substitute with long-grain or short-grain varieties. Check the detailed rice-to-water ratio guide below to adjust according to the type of rice you choose.
- Water: Filtered water is recommended for the best results in cooking rice.
- Salt (Optional): The addition of salt to white rice is a matter of regional preference and personal taste. This recipe is versatile – add salt if you like, or skip it. In this version, salt isn't included.
How to Cook White Rice on Stovetop?
Get ready to transform simple ingredients into delicious, fluffy white rice. Follow along with our photos and video guide for each step of the recipe:
Explore More Rice and Grain Recipes:
White Rice
Ingredients
- 1½ cups White Rice, medium grain
- 3 cups Water
Instructions
To Make White Rice on Stovetop
- Place the rice in a bowl and wash it with cold water. Continue rinsing until the water is clear, ensuring all the dust, debris, and excess starch are removed.
- Pour water into a wide-bottomed pan or pot. Turn on the heat to medium and wait for the water to boil.
- Once the water is boiling, add the rinsed rice. Make sure to spread it evenly across the pan.
- Keep boiling the rice until you see a foamy texture forming on the surface, with bubbles appearing in the center and along the edges.
- Reduce the heat to low and cover the pan with a lid. Allow the rice to cook for 15 to 20 minutes, or until all the water has been absorbed.
- After the rice is cooked, turn off the heat and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes. Finally, open the lid and use a fork to fluff the rice. Your fluffy white rice is now ready to be served.
To Serve
- Enjoy this fluffy white rice with a variety of curries, stir-fries, and other dishes. It's a versatile accompaniment that works well with both vegetarian and meat-based meals. Check the serving suggestions section for more pairing ideas.
Recipe Video
Chef's Notes and Tips
- Rinse the Rice: Rinsing removes excess starch, dust, and debris, preventing clumping and ensuring fluffy rice. Skipping this step can result in mushy rice.
- Rice to Water Ratio: For perfect results, stick to a 1:2 rice-to-water ratio. This is crucial for achieving fluffy, well-cooked white rice.
- Cover and Simmer: Cooking rice in a covered pot on low heat ensures even cooking and helps avoid undercooked or burnt grains.
- Manage the Heat: Start cooking on medium heat until the water bubbles and turns foamy. Then, reduce to low heat once the pot is covered to gently simmer the rice.
- Cooking Time: White rice typically cooks in about 15-20 minutes using the absorption method. Start by boiling the rice for 5-7 minutes, then cover and simmer for another 15-20 minutes until all the water is absorbed. After turning off the heat, let the rice rest for 5-10 minutes to absorb any remaining water, completing the cooking process.
Nutrition Info
Disclaimer: We’re not nutrition experts. Nutritional info is estimated and should be used as a guide. For precise details, consult a professional.
Dive into our diverse collection of rice recipes and savor the aromatic spices of biryanis, the comfort of classic chicken and rice, and more. Each dish offers a unique taste of international cuisine, richly seasoned for an unforgettable culinary experience.
Serving Suggestions
Elevate your white rice with these globally-inspired dishes. From spicy Indian curries to zesty Asian stir-fries, discover the perfect match for a delicious, well-rounded meal. Let's explore these flavorful pairings!
- Chicken Curry: A versatile and classic dish that's a staple in Indian cuisine.
- Chicken Tikka Masala: A globally beloved dish known for its creamy, spiced tomato base.
- Paneer Tikka Masala: A popular vegetarian option with grilled paneer in a rich tomato sauce.
- Thai Red Curry: A vibrant and spicy curry that's a favorite in Thai menus.
- Thai Green Curry: A fragrant and spicy curry, well-loved in Thai cuisine.
- Chicken Stir Fry: A quick and flavorful dish that can be customized with various vegetables and proteins.
- Orange Chicken: A sweet and tangy dish, popular in Chinese-American cuisine.
- Shrimp Stir Fry: A medley of succulent shrimp and vibrant vegetables, all wok-tossed in a savory sauce.
- Tofu Stir Fry: A delicious and nutritious dish that's both easy to make and bursting with flavor.
- Vegetable Korma: A creamy, mild curry loaded with vegetables, perfect for a vegetarian meal.
Storage Suggestions
Store cooked white rice in the refrigerator for up to 3 days by keeping it in an airtight container. This refrigerated rice is ideal for dishes like fried rice. To reheat, either microwave it on high until it's evenly warm, adding a bit of water if dry, or warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. For longer storage, you can freeze the rice for up to 3 months.
Leave a Review