Directions:
- Combine and Boil:
In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, water, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. (Keep the lid handy, but don’t cover the pot yet.) - Simmer:
Once the water is boiling, stir the rice once, cover the pan with the lid, and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 18 minutes. Important: Do not lift the lid or stir the rice during this time, or it can disrupt the cooking process and make it too mushy. - Rest:
Once the 18 minutes are up, remove the pot from heat and let it stand (still covered) for 5 minutes. This helps the rice finish cooking in its own steam. - Fluff and Serve:
After the resting period, fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains, and it’s ready to serve!
Pro Tip:
If you want to add extra flavor, use chicken or vegetable broth in place of water when cooking the rice.
How to Store Cooked Rice
- Cool it down: Let the rice sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before storing.
- Store: Transfer the cooled rice to an airtight container or plastic zip-top bag. Refrigerate for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
How to Reheat Rice Without Drying It Out
To reheat rice, sprinkle a few drops of water over it, cover with a damp paper towel, and microwave for about 1-2 minutes. This will prevent it from drying out.