10 Hacks for Cooking Perfect Rice Every Time
Rice seems simple—until it turns out mushy, gummy, or burnt on the bottom. The good news? A few small adjustments can make a big difference. Whether you’re cooking white rice, brown rice, or jasmine, these ten hacks will help you get fluffy, perfectly cooked rice every single time.
Rinse the Rice First
Rinsing rice under cold water removes excess surface starch, which is the main cause of sticky, gummy rice. Rinse until the water runs mostly clear for lighter, fluffier results.
Use the Right Water-to-Rice Ratio
Too much water leads to mushy rice; too little leaves it undercooked. As a general rule, use about 2 cups of water for 1 cup of white rice and slightly more for brown rice.
Bring It to a Full Boil Before Lowering the Heat
Starting with a strong boil ensures the rice cooks evenly. Once it’s boiling, reduce to a low simmer, cover, and let the steam do the work.
Don’t Lift the Lid While It Cooks
Every time you peek, steam escapes—and steam is essential for cooking rice properly. Keep the lid on until the cooking time is up.
Add a Pinch of Salt Early
Salting the water at the beginning seasons the rice from the inside out. It’s a small step that makes plain rice taste noticeably better.
Let It Rest After Cooking
Once the rice is done, remove it from heat and let it sit covered for 5–10 minutes. This resting period allows moisture to redistribute evenly.
Fluff with a Fork, Not a Spoon
Using a fork gently separates the grains without mashing them. A spoon can compress the rice and make it clump together.
Toast the Rice Before Adding Water
For extra flavor, briefly toast dry rice in a little oil or butter before adding liquid. This adds a subtle nutty taste and helps keep grains distinct.
Match the Pot Size to the Amount of Rice
Using a pot that’s too large causes liquid to evaporate too quickly, while a pot that’s too small can boil over. Choose a snug-fitting pot for even cooking.
Know When to Switch Methods
If stovetop rice keeps giving you trouble, try a rice cooker or Instant Pot. These tools take the guesswork out and deliver consistent results every time.
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