How to Cook Rice – Budget Bytes

To make the perfect rice on the stovetop, you need to follow a few simple steps. Rice is a versatile and budget-friendly pantry staple that can be the base of many delicious meals. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to cook rice on the stovetop:

1. Rinse the rice: Before cooking, rinse the rice with water to remove any debris and excess starch. This will prevent the rice from becoming too sticky once cooked.

2. Add salt and water: Place one cup of rice in a saucepot and add ¼ tsp of salt. Then, add 1.5 cups of water to the pot.

3. Bring to a boil: Cover the pot with a lid and bring the water to a full boil over high heat.

4. Simmer: Once the water is boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the rice simmer for 15 minutes. Do not lift the lid or stir the rice during this time.

5. Rest: After 15 minutes of simmering, turn off the heat and let the rice rest for an additional five minutes. Still, do not lift the lid or stir the rice.

6. Fluff with a fork: After the rice has rested, lift the lid and fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains.

7. Serve: Your perfectly cooked rice is now ready to be served with your favorite meal.

If you encounter any issues while cooking rice, such as burned, mushy, crunchy, or unevenly cooked rice, troubleshoot by adjusting the heat, water ratio, and cooking time accordingly.

If cooking rice on the stovetop seems challenging, don't worry. Using a rice cooker can be a convenient and foolproof alternative. Rice cookers are affordable, versatile, and allow you to multitask while your rice is being cooked to perfection.

Remember, mastering the art of cooking rice on the stovetop takes practice, but once you get the hang of it, you'll be able to enjoy delicious, fluffy rice every time.