In Basics by The BakerMama: How to Cook Rice, I share a straightforward method for consistently making fluffy, fragrant rice.
Basics by The BakerMama
Welcome to Basics by The BakerMama. This how-to series is designed to help beginner cooks build confidence, save time in the kitchen, and create enjoyable meals and memories. These straightforward lessons cover essential techniques so you can get reliable results every time.
How to Cook Rice
Light, fluffy, aromatic rice is a go-to at our house. Whether served as a simple side, folded into a rice salad, or used in a comforting casserole, long-grain rice is versatile and easy to prepare once you know the basics. This guide covers common long-grain varieties such as jasmine, basmati, texmati, and long-grain brown rice.
Follow these simple steps to make about 3 cups of cooked rice from 1 cup of uncooked long-grain rice:
- Combine the rice, water, salt, and butter or oil in a medium saucepan and bring to a boil, stirring once to separate the grains.
- As soon as it reaches a boil, cover with a tight-fitting lid and reduce the heat to a low simmer.
- Let the rice simmer, covered, for 15 minutes without lifting the lid.
- Remove the pan from the heat and keep it covered for an additional 5–10 minutes so the rice finishes steaming and absorbs any remaining moisture.
- Uncover, fluff the rice gently with a fork, and serve.
This method yields tender, separate grains with a pleasant aroma. Adjust the water slightly for very old rice, different brands, or if you prefer softer or firmer rice—generally an additional tablespoon or two of water will make the result softer. For brown long-grain rice, increase cooking time and liquid as needed according to package directions.
Ready to Learn More?
If you enjoy these basics, there are other simple techniques that make everyday cooking easier. Try classic methods like baking bacon, poaching eggs, making stovetop popcorn, or baking potatoes—each one is a small skill that pays off at the dinner table.
If you try this rice method, I’d love to see your results. Share a photo on Instagram or in your favorite community so others can be inspired by your cooking. Enjoy!
xoxo,
Basics by The BakerMama: How to Cook Rice
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- Author: The BakerMama
- Prep Time: 5
- Cook Time: 15
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 3 cups
Description
In Basics by The BakerMama: How to Cook Rice, I share a reliable, easy-to-follow method for making perfectly cooked long-grain rice—fluffy, fragrant, and ideal for everyday meals.
Ingredients
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
- 1 and 3/4 cups water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon butter or olive oil
Instructions
- Combine the rice, water, salt, and butter or oil in a medium saucepan.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring once to separate the grains.
- Cover tightly, reduce the heat to a low simmer, and cook for 15 minutes without lifting the lid.
- Remove from heat and keep covered for 5–10 minutes. Then fluff gently with a fork and serve.