Plain Boiled Rice
A simple and fluffy plain boiled rice, perfect as a versatile side dish for various cuisines, suitable for any meal and easy to prepare for family or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash rice 2 or 3 times, rubbing gently between the hands and drain very well.
- Put rice and water into a saucepan of at least 2-quart capacity.
- Cover and bring to a boil over a medium-high heat.
- As soon as it is boiling, turn heat to medium-low and stir the rice with a wooden spoon from the bottom up and around the edge. Scrape down the grains on the edge of the pan.
- Cover and let boil slowly until water is absorbed.
- Stir gently once again and simmer over very low heat for 20 to 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding a pinch of salt or a splash of olive oil to the water before boiling. For a fragrant twist, try infusing the water with a bay leaf or a few cardamom pods. If you’re out of long grain rice, jasmine or basmati rice can be good substitutes, though cooking times may vary slightly.
Serving Suggestions
Plain boiled rice is a versatile side that pairs beautifully with stir-fries, curries, or grilled meats. It can also serve as a base for a rice bowl topped with vegetables and proteins. For a delightful twist, serve it alongside Hot Baked Fruit for a comforting meal or dessert combo.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, sprinkle a few drops of water over the rice and cover it with a damp paper towel before microwaving for a minute or two, or heat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water to prevent sticking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Plain Boiled Rice contains roughly 294 calories, with 6g protein, 61g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is a good source of protein (12% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (10% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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
What type of rice is best for boiling?
Long grain rice is ideal for this recipe as it cooks up fluffy and separate. However, you can also use jasmine or basmati rice for added aroma and flavor. Just remember to adjust the water ratio and cooking time slightly for best results.
Can I cook rice without a lid?
While it's possible to cook rice without a lid, it's not recommended as it may lead to uneven cooking and excessive evaporation of water. Covering the pot helps trap steam, ensuring the rice cooks evenly and absorbs the right amount of water.
How can I prevent my rice from being sticky?
Rinsing the rice thoroughly before cooking helps remove excess starch, which can cause stickiness. Additionally, stirring the rice gently during cooking and ensuring the right water-to-rice ratio are crucial steps in achieving fluffy, non-sticky rice.
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).