If you’ve ever cooked white rice and it turned out sticky, undercooked, or stuck to the bottom of the pan, you’re not alone. We’ve all been there. In fact, I used to avoid cooking rice for this very reason, chalking my failures up to not owning a rice cooker.
However, since then I’ve perfected my go-to method for cooking white rice that’s fluffy, tender, and delicious every time. Plus, it just requires a saucepan and lid (no fancy rice cooker). Let me show you how it’s done.
Swirl the rice in the pan (or stir once) to make sure it’s well distributed. Put a lid on and turn the heat down to as low as possible. If you cook the rice on too high a heat, it will cook too quickly and may end up chalky in the centre. Simmer gently for 10 mins and do not take the lid off.
Ways to Use White Rice
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How to Cook White Rice
- 1 cup white rice (such as basmati or jasmine)
- 2 cups water
- Add rice and water to a medium saucepan and bring to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, lower heat to a simmer and cover. Ensure it’s simmering and not boiling or the rice can cook too quickly.
- Simmer until water is completely absorbed and rice is tender – about 15-25 minutes (will depend on size and freshness of rice). Drain off any excess water if there is any (there shouldn’t be).
- I like to turn off the heat, remove the lid, fluff with a fork, put the lid back on, and let rest for 10 minutes so the moisture redistributes to prevent mushy rice. This rice is delicious in things like stir fries, sushi, with stews, and more!
- Store cooled leftovers covered in the refrigerator up to 5-6 days, or in the freezer up to 1 month. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a little oil or water until warm.
How To Cook: White Rice on the Stove
FAQ
Do you cook rice on low or high?
Should rice be on medium or high heat?
Does rice cook faster on higher heat?
Is it better to cook rice slow or fast?
How do you cook rice at a low heat?
Start the rice at a hard boil over medium-high heat with the lid on. When you hear your pot hissing or the lid jittering, immediately turn the heat down to medium-low, or as low as you can get it yet still have the liquid simmering. Why? Rice likes it nice and easy. Lower heat ensures tender, evenly cooked grains.
Which type of rice is best for which recipes?
Forbidden rice, which is also known as black rice, is one of the healthiest rice varieties you can buy and make salads or mix it with vegetables and meat. Other healthy rice varieties are wild rice and brown rice, including types like brown jasmine rice and brown basmati rice, that are good to prepare fried rice, curries, or risottos.
How do you reheat cooked rice?
To reheat for serving (eg for stir fries or curries ), sprinkle with 2 tsp water per 1 cup cooked rice, cover with lid or cling wrap and microwave – water will make moist again. 8. Cooking rice at HIGH ALTITUDE: Add 1 minute stove cook time for every 300m/1,000ft above sea level (because boiling point of water is lower = longer cook time).
How do you cook rice on a stove?
To cook rice on the stove, all you need is a medium saucepan with a tight-fitting lid. Rinse your rice if desired and drain well. In a medium saucepan, add 1 cup rice, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1 Tbsp butter (if using) to the pan. Add 2 cups water and bring to a boil, uncovered, over medium heat.