Preparation Time: 5 minutes

Cooking Time: 18 minutes

Resting Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 33 minutes

Difficulty: Easy

Cooking Heat Intensities

Bringing water to a boil: High Heat (8–9/10)
Cooking rice: Low Heat (2/10)
Resting after cooking: No Heat
Fluffing before serving: No Heat

Ingredients

1 cup long-grain white rice
2 cups water
1 tablespoon butter or olive oil (optional)
½ teaspoon salt

Optional Garnishes:

Fresh parsley
Chopped green onions
Fresh cilantro
Lemon zest
Toasted sesame seeds

Equipment Needed

Medium saucepan with a tight-fitting lid
Measuring cups
Measuring spoons
Fine-mesh strainer
Fork for fluffing

Why Rinse the Rice?

Rinsing removes excess surface starch that can cause rice to become sticky. Place the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and rinse under cold running water until the water runs mostly clear. Drain thoroughly before cooking.

Instructions

Step 1: Rinse the Rice

Measure the rice and rinse thoroughly under cold water for 1–2 minutes. Allow it to drain well.

Step 2: Boil the Water

In a medium saucepan, combine the water, salt, and butter or olive oil if using.

Place the pan over high heat (8–9/10) and bring the water to a rolling boil.

Step 3: Add the Rice

Stir the rinsed rice into the boiling water.

Return the water to a gentle boil.

Stir once to separate the grains.

Step 4: Simmer

Cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid.

Reduce the heat immediately to low (2/10).

Simmer for 18 minutes without lifting the lid.

Avoid stirring during cooking, as this can release starch and make the rice sticky.

Step 5: Rest

Remove the saucepan from the heat while keeping the lid on.

Allow the rice to rest undisturbed for 10 minutes. This step lets the remaining steam finish cooking the rice and helps the grains firm up.

Step 6: Fluff and Serve

Remove the lid and fluff the rice gently with a fork.

Serve immediately while warm.

Serving Suggestions

White rice pairs beautifully with:

Chicken curry
Beef stir-fry
Grilled salmon
Shrimp scampi
Roasted vegetables
Teriyaki chicken
Butter chicken
Chili
Beans
Stewed tomatoes
Fried eggs

It can also be used for fried rice, rice bowls, casseroles, stuffed peppers, and soups.

Storage

Allow cooked rice to cool quickly before storing.

Refrigerator

Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer

Freeze in portion-sized containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Microwave

Add 1–2 tablespoons of water to the rice.

Cover loosely and microwave for 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Stovetop

Place rice in a saucepan with a splash of water.

Heat over low heat (2–3/10) for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Tips for Perfect White Rice

Always measure the rice and water accurately.
Use a tight-fitting lid to keep steam inside the pot.
Resist the temptation to lift the lid while the rice cooks.

Let the rice rest after cooking for the best texture.
Fluff with a fork instead of a spoon to keep the grains separate.

Recipe Variations

Garlic Butter Rice

Sauté 2 minced garlic cloves in butter before adding the water, then cook as directed.

Herb Rice

Stir in chopped parsley, dill, or cilantro after fluffing.

Lemon Rice

Add a teaspoon of lemon zest and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving.

Coconut Rice

Replace one cup of the water with coconut milk for a rich, tropical flavor.

Vegetable Rice

Cook the rice in vegetable broth and stir in peas, carrots, or corn after cooking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken broth instead of water?

Yes. Chicken or vegetable broth adds extra flavor and works well in this recipe.

Why is my rice mushy?

Too much water or overcooking can result in soft, mushy rice. Be sure to measure the water carefully and avoid extending the cooking time.

Why is my rice undercooked?

The heat may have been too high or the lid may have been removed during cooking. Keep the lid on throughout the simmering process and allow the rice to rest before serving.

Can I double this recipe?

Absolutely. Simply double the ingredients and use a larger saucepan. The cooking time remains about the same.

Final Thoughts

Perfect white rice is one of the most useful recipes every home cook should master. With the right balance of water, gentle heat, and a brief resting period, you can consistently prepare fluffy, tender rice that complements almost any meal. Whether you’re serving it with flavorful curries, grilled meats, fresh vegetables, or using leftovers for fried rice, this dependable recipe delivers delicious results every time.

Keeping cooked white rice on hand also makes meal preparation faster throughout the week. Its mild flavor allows it to pair with countless cuisines, making it an essential staple in kitchens around the world.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Approximate values based on 4 servings.

Calories: 170
Total Fat: 0.5 g (2.5 g with butter)
Saturated Fat: 0 g (1.5 g with butter)
Cholesterol: 0 mg
Sodium: 295 mg
Total Carbohydrates: 37 g
Dietary Fiber: 0.6 g
Total Sugars: 0 g
Protein: 3.5 g
Calcium: 1% Daily Value
Iron: 2% Daily Value
Potassium: 35 mg
Folate: 15% Daily Value

white rice