Fluffy and delicious steamed white rice
Steamed white rice is a simple yet essential dish, featuring fluffy grains achieved through rinsing, soaking, and careful cooking methods. Ideal as a side or base for various meals, its versatility complements numerous cuisines.
Cook time 35 min
Prep time 15 min
Ingredients:
3 cups water1.50 cups white rice
Steamed white rice is a versatile and staple dish that forms the foundation of many meals. It is simple to prepare but knowing the right techniques can make a significant difference in achieving fluffy and delicious results every time.
Instructions:
- Measure 1.5 cups of white rice and place it into a fine-mesh strainer or a bowl.
- Rinse the rice under cold running water, gently swirling the grains with your hand until the water runs clear. This helps to remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming too sticky.
- Transfer the rinsed rice to a bowl and cover with enough water to fully submerge the grains.
- Let the rice soak for about 20-30 minutes. This optional step can help the rice cook more evenly and become fluffier.
- After soaking, drain the rice using a fine-mesh strainer and shake off any excess water.
- In a medium saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, combine 3 cups of water and the drained rice.
- Give the mixture a quick stir to make sure the rice is evenly distributed in the water.
- Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the water to a boil. This should take about 4-5 minutes.
- As soon as the water starts to boil, reduce the heat to low.
- Cover the saucepan with the lid and let the rice simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes.
- Avoid lifting the lid or stirring the rice during this time, as this will disrupt the steaming process.
- After the cooking time is up, turn off the heat and let the rice sit, covered, for an additional 10-15 minutes. This resting time allows the rice to finish cooking and absorb any remaining moisture, resulting in perfectly fluffy grains.
- Remove the lid and gently fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains.
- Serve immediately as a side dish or use as a base for your favorite main courses.
Cooking fluffy and delicious steamed white rice is straightforward when you follow the right steps and tips. With clean, rinsed rice and the correct water ratio, paired with patience in letting the rice properly cook and rest, you will consistently achieve impressive results. Enjoy your perfectly cooked rice that complements any meal beautifully.
Fluffy and delicious steamed white rice FAQ:
Store leftover steamed rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be kept for up to 4-6 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it in portions for up to 3 months.
Soak the rice for about 20-30 minutes to help it cook more evenly and achieve a fluffier texture. This step is optional, but it can improve the final result.
The rice is done when all the water has been absorbed and the grains appear tender. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to ensure proper steaming. After 15-20 minutes on low heat, let it rest covered for an additional 10-15 minutes.
Brown rice requires a different cooking time and more water than white rice. If you decide to use brown rice, consult specific instructions for cooking as it typically needs about 1.5 to 2 cups of water and a longer cooking time.
Long-grain white rice, such as basmati or jasmine, works well for steaming and can yield fluffy results. Avoid using short-grain rice, which tends to be more sticky.
Tips:
- Rinse the Rice: Rinse the white rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming too sticky.
- Use the Right Water Ratio: For every 1.5 cups (280g) of white rice, use 3 cups (600g) of water. This 2:1 water-to-rice ratio is ideal for achieving the perfect texture.
- Avoid Lifting the Lid: Once the rice is cooking, refrain from lifting the lid as this lets out steam and can affect the cooking process, resulting in unevenly cooked rice.
- Let it Rest: After the rice has finished cooking, let it sit, covered, for about 10 minutes. This rest period allows the rice to absorb any remaining moisture, ensuring a fluffier texture.
Nutrition per serving
4 ServingsCalories 250kcal
Protein 4.95g
Carbohydrates 54g
Fiber 0.90g
Sugar 0.08g
Fat 0.46g
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