An important food staple in a variety of cuisines around the world is fluffy and delicious rice. Rice is the foundation of some of the the best dishes, like jumbalaya, paella, and my childhood favorite, biryani. Whether you prefer long-grain white, basmati, jasmine, or brown rice, the possibilities are truly endless. But what's the best method for cooking rice? Sure, you can invest in a nice rice cooker that will get the job done, but the easiest way to achieve light and fluffy rice is the stovetop method. Here's how to do it:
Measure the rice: This is a very important step when cooking rice. Measuring out the rice not only ensures you've made enough for yourself and your friends, but it also allows you to determine how much water to add for cooking. Wash the rice: Take your rice and wash out the excess starch under cold water. Rinse and repeat two more times until the water is fairly clear. This is another important step when you're making rice because washing off the excess starch will prevent your rice from clumping when you cook. For the best results, use a mesh strainer. Measure the water: For every one cup of rice, add two cups of water to your pot. This method is especially good because you don't have to strain out the water later on. Seasoning (optional): Adding a pinch of salt to your water will ensure your rice is properly seasoned. If you want to really jazz things up, you can also add other spices like red chili flakes for a nice kick or turmeric for added flavor and color. Simmer and steam: Put the rice on heat until it reaches a boil. Once boiling, lower to medium heat until you notice the center of the rice is white and puffs up slightly. Once it reaches this point, cover the rice and let it steam for 10 to 15 minutes on low, and it will be ready to be served.
