Achieve perfect fluffy rice: Essential tips you need to know
Fluffy rice, with each grain perfectly separated, serves as an excellent base for many dishes. It is much tastier than when it turns into sticky mush. Do you know how to cook it so it stays delectable? We have some tips.
Although rice is commonly used in various dishes, few people focus on the details of cooking it. It might seem that it's enough to just add water and cook it. Sort of, but the details make a big difference. Rice grains can be dry and perfectly separated, but sometimes we end up with a sticky mush. How can you avoid that?
The right type of rice is key
If you don't have much experience cooking rice, choosing the right type can make it easier for you. Basmati is the easiest to prepare. It has longer grains and contains less starch, making it less sticky. Before cooking, every type of rice should be rinsed thoroughly under cold water. This removes excess starch and any impurities, which greatly affects the ideal consistency of the rice.
Keep the proportions
It's not enough to just pour water over the rice. This is a common mistake that makes it come out sticky. The proportions are important here. Use 1.5 parts water to one part rice. This ensures there is the right amount of water for absorption during cooking. Start cooking with cold water, not boiling, which is an important distinction affecting the final result. You can add a teaspoon of lemon juice to the cooking rice. This simple trick will prevent the grains from sticking together, and their flavor will remain excellent. The lemon juice won't alter that.
Under a lid and steamed
Always cook rice with a lid on, as it will cook more evenly that way. When it comes to a boil, reduce the heat. It will then cook as if steamed, similar to slow simmering on low heat. After about 8-10 minutes, the grains should absorb the water and increase in volume.
Important! After cooking, leave the rice in the pot for a few minutes to "rest." This will help the grains reach the best consistency. They will continue to absorb moisture, ensuring they remain light. After going through this preparation process, the rice will be almost dry and completely free of stickiness. Simply fluff it gently with a fork and serve.
