How to cook white rice

Learning to cook rice is a simple way to build kitchen confidence and unlock easy, budget-friendly meals.
White rice being rinsed in a fine mesh strainer until the water runs clear

Step 1

Using a fine mesh strainer rinse the rice under water until the water runs clear. For 3 cups of cooked rice, add 1 cup of rice and 1.5 cups of water to a saucepan.

Rice and water being added to a saucepan

Step 2

Bring the water to a boil, carefully place lid on the saucepan, reduce heat to low and let simmer for 13 minutes. Avoid lifting the lid during this time to ensure the rice cooks evenly.

Cooked white rice scooped from the pot with a wooden spoon

Step 3

Turn off the heat and let the rice sit in the covered pan for 10 minutes. This allows the rice to finish cooking and absorb any remaining moisture.

Using a fork, gently fluff up the rice before serving.

Step 4

Safety tips:

  • Always use a pot with a lid that fits securely to prevent steam from escaping.
  • Be careful when removing the lid after cooking, as hot steam can cause burns.
  • Open the lid away from you to avoid direct contact with the steam.
  • Use oven mitts when handling the hot saucepan to avoid burns.
  • Keep the saucepan handle turned inward to prevent accidentally knocking it over.
  • Never leave the stove unattended while the rice is cooking, as the water can boil over if the heat is too high.

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