Master stovetop white rice with this foolproof recipe. Perfect for any type of rice - short, medium, or long grain - this method ensures fluffy, tender results every time. Ideal for pairing with everything from curries and stir-fries to your favorite mains, this basic white rice recipe is a versatile kitchen essential.
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.
Notes
Essential Tips to Cook Perfect White Rice:
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.