In this blog we will learn about how to cook rice. Rice is a staple food enjoyed by millions around the world. Whether you’re preparing a simple home-cooked meal or an elaborate feast, perfectly cooked rice is a must-have on the table. But many people struggle to get it just right—too sticky, too dry, or sometimes half-cooked. The good news is: cooking rice is easy once you know the right technique. In this blog, we’ll guide you through a simple method to cook fluffy, delicious rice on the stovetop. Whether you’re a beginner or someone looking to refine your skills, this step-by-step guide will help you master the art of rice cooking. Why Rinse Rice Before Cooking? Before we begin, one of the most important steps is rinsing the rice. Raw rice is coated with surface starch that can make it sticky when cooked. Rinsing it with cold water removes this excess starch and prevents clumping. Simply place the rice in a bowl or strainer, add water, swirl it with your fingers, and drain. Repeat 2–3 times until the water runs clear. Basic Ingredients : How to cook rice To cook plain white rice (basmati or long-grain), you’ll need: 1 cup rice 2 cups water ½ teaspoon salt (optional) 1 teaspoon oil or butter (optional) Tip: You can adjust quantities based on how much rice you need—just keep the 1:2 rice-to-water ratio. Step-by-Step: How to Cook Rice on the Stove 1. Measure the Rice and Water Add 1 cup of rinsed rice and 2 cups of water to a medium saucepan. Add salt and oil if desired. 2. Boil the Water Place the pan over medium-high heat and bring the water to a boil. You’ll notice small bubbles forming on the surface. 3. Simmer and Cover Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to the lowest setting and cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid. This traps the steam and helps the rice cook evenly. 4. Cook for 15–18 Minutes Let the rice simmer on low heat for 15–18 minutes. Try not to open the lid or stir during this time—disturbing the steam can affect the texture. 5. Let it Rest After the cooking time is done, turn off the heat and leave the rice covered for another 5–10 minutes. This allows the rice to finish cooking through steam and become fluffy. 6. Fluff and Serve Open the lid and gently fluff the rice with a fork. It should be light, non-sticky, and perfectly cooked. Tips for Better Rice Use a heavy-bottomed pot to avoid burning or sticking. Avoid stirring the rice while it cooks—it breaks the grains and makes rice mushy. Resting time after cooking is essential for fluffiness. If rice is too wet, remove the lid and cook for 2–3 more minutes on low heat. Common Rice Varieties and Water Ratios Rice Type Water Ratio Cooking Time Basmati (white) 1:2 15–18 mins Long-grain white 1:2 18–20 mins Jasmine 1:1.75 15–18 mins Brown rice 1:2.5 35–40 mins Parboiled rice 1:2.25 20–25 mins Note: Brown rice takes longer and needs more water due to its outer bran layer. Alternative Cooking Methods 1. Rice Cooker Add rinsed rice and water, press the “cook” button, and let the machine do the rest. It’s perfect for busy cooks or beginners. 2. Instant Pot / Pressure Cooker Use 1 cup rice to 1¼ cups water. Cook on high pressure for 4–6 minutes, then let it naturally release for 10 minutes. Final Thoughts Cooking rice may seem basic, but mastering it can elevate your entire meal. Whether you’re serving it with curries, vegetables, dals, or stir-fries, fluffy rice forms the perfect base. With this simple method and a few tips, you can now cook perfect rice every single time—without any stress. Ready to try it out? Start with your favorite type of rice, follow the steps, and enjoy the satisfaction of getting it just right. FAQs 1. Why is it important to rinse rice before cooking? Rinsing rice removes excess surface starch that can cause the grains to stick together when cooked. Washing it 2–3 times until the water becomes clear helps achieve non-sticky, fluffy rice. 2. What is the ideal rice-to-water ratio for perfectly cooked rice? For most white rice varieties like basmati or long-grain, the ideal ratio is 1 cup of rice to 2 cups of water. However, this may vary: Jasmine rice – 1:1.75 Brown rice – 1:2.5 Parboiled rice – 1:2.25 3. How do I prevent rice from becoming mushy or sticky? Avoid stirring rice while it cooks, use the correct water ratio, and let the rice rest after cooking for 5–10 minutes with the lid on. Cooking in a heavy-bottomed pot also prevents sticking or burning. 4. What are some alternative methods for cooking rice if I don’t want to cook it on the stovetop? You can use: Rice Cooker: Add rinsed rice and water, press “cook.” Instant Pot/Pressure Cooker: Use 1 cup rice and 1¼ cups water, cook on high pressure 4–6 minutes, followed by natural release for 10 minutes.
