Never Fail Cooked Rice
A foolproof method for fluffy, perfectly cooked long grain rice every time, ideal as a versatile side for a variety of dishes and cuisines.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Measure rice exactly and put in a fine mesh wire strainer. Under cold running water, rub rice against the sides of the strainer until water comes out clear.
- Or put into a pan and wash with your hands, changing water 4 times; then drain.
- Put water and salt in a 1 to 2 quart saucepan.
- Bring to a boil, add rice, and bring to a boil for 1 minute. Lower heat to medium-low.
- Cover and cook 25 minutes. Don't lift lid to peek.
- Remove from heat.
- Lift lid and fluff rice with a fork.
- Serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For perfectly cooked rice, rinsing removes excess starch and prevents stickiness. If you don't have long grain rice, jasmine or basmati can be good alternatives. For added flavor, consider substituting half the water with vegetable or chicken broth. You can also enhance your rice by adding herbs or spices like garlic powder or bay leaves during cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Fluffy cooked rice serves as an excellent base for many dishes. It pairs beautifully with Beef Soup With Noodles or can be served alongside stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal. For a vegan option, try topping it with sautéed greens or chickpeas. You can also use it as a filling for stuffed peppers or as a side to roasted meats.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cooked rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, sprinkle with a little water, cover, and microwave for 1-2 minutes, or steam on the stovetop to restore moisture. Freezing is also an option; just make sure to cool it completely before placing it in freezer-safe bags.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Never Fail Cooked Rice contains roughly 440 calories, with 9g protein, 92g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is a good source of protein (18% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (15% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1750mg per serving (76% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my rice still hard after cooking?
If your rice is hard, it may not have absorbed enough water. Ensure you measure the rice and water accurately. If needed, add a bit more water and continue cooking on low heat, covered, until the rice is tender.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, you can double the recipe, but make sure to use a larger pot to allow for even cooking. The water-to-rice ratio remains the same, so use 4 cups of water for 4 cups of rice. Cooking time may vary slightly; just ensure the rice is tender.
What can I add to cooked rice for flavor?
To enhance the flavor of your cooked rice, consider mixing in ingredients like sautéed onions, garlic, or fresh herbs. You can also stir in a spoonful of Soyannaise for a creamy texture or add a splash of soy sauce for an umami boost.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).