Learning how to make white rice has never been easier! With this step by step guide, make perfectly fluffy rice on the stovetop every time.

While you are here be sure to check out these Delicious Steakhouse Mashed Potatoes and Cajun Fried Corn on the Cob.

a bowl of white rice beside a pot of more rice

When you are learning how to make white rice, there is plenty of trial and error. I used to think only a rice cooker or instant pot could save me but once you know how to make white rice on the stove, life gets a little bit easier!

Rice is a super popular and common side dish used across a variety of cuisines. So whether it is the star of your entree or the side dish to it – white rice is the go-to that goes with so much!

When you learn how to cook rice, you will always be able to throw a quick, simple, and delicious meal together in no time.

Why you will love Making White Rice on the Stove:

So Easy! This method makes cooking white rice on the stovetop quicker, easier, and more delicious with just a few simple steps. With a cooking time of less than 30 minutes, you can make enough rice to last you the entire week.

Versatile! It pairs well with so many different dishes, including stir fries. It will work with whatever you’re in the mood for.

Nutritious! Cooked white rice is low-calorie and packed with vitamins like niacin, and minerals like zinc. Rice is also a good source of carbohydrates which gives you the energy to cross everything off your to-do list.

Ingredients for this White Rice Recipe

To make perfect rice, you will need the following ingredients:

1. White rice – Long-grain white rice tends to separate better when cooked and remains fluffy.

2. Water – Alternatively, use chicken broth or vegetable broth for added flavor. Broth helps to give you meal the comfort you are craving.

3. Salt and butter to taste – A little seasoning never hurt anyone.

How to Make White Rice on the Stove

First things first, wash your hands before getting started. Then rinse the uncooked rice in either a pot or in a fine mesh strainer under cold water. Mix the rice around with your hands to better clean it.

Drain water and keep rinsing the rice until it’s clear. This step is vital for removing the extra starch and preventing the rice from becoming sticky.

Add the rice into a medium saucepan and pour in water. You can also substitute water with chicken/vegetable broth for flavor.

Place the saucepan on the stove and cook over medium-high heat until it comes to a light boil. Once it comes to a boil, cover with a lid and reduce the heat to low.

Allow rice to simmer on low heat for about 18-20 minutes, or until all of the water has been absorbed and the rice is fluffy.

a pot with the lid on cooking white rice

Remove the pot from the heat and let the rice sit for at least 5 minutes with the lid on. This allows the rice to absorb the remaining moisture.

Use a fork to fluff and separate the rice.

Enjoy!

Rice Finger Trick

Wondering how to make white rice better? The water to rice ratio is crucial so this trick is the key to perfect white rice every time.

Instead of measuring out the rice and water, pour rice directly into your saucepan. Rinse the rice thoroughly until the water runs clear. Drain all of the water out and place your index finger right on top of the rice.

Just so your fingertip is touching it.

finger method for how to make white rice

Now add the cold water into the saucepan with the rice, just until the water gets to the first line of your finger. Cook the rice on the stove over medium-high heat until it comes to a boil.

Now you should cover the pot and lower the heat to low. Simmer the rice for about 20 minutes until all of the water is absorbed.

Tips and Variations for How to Make Perfect White Rice

Once your water starts boiling, you can add salt to it so that it dissolves well and seasons your grains.
Remove excess starch by washing the rice with cold water before you cook.
When done cooking, remove the pot from the burner so the cooked rice can soak up any remaining water. Then fluff the rice with a fork in order to keep it from sticking together.
You can enhance the natural flavor by toasting the rice a bit before boiling. Add butter or olive oil to the medium-high heat and toast til the rice smells a bit nutty.
Mind the rice to water ratio. Doubling the recipe is as easy as adding 2 more cups of water for every 1 cup of rice.
Short grain rice works for this recipe too. This recipe is ideal for rice pudding or sushi rice.
Store leftover rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 6 days. (Leftover white rice is great for fried rice recipes.)
When reheating, add a splash or two of cold water to counter any dryness.

FAQ

What goes with rice?

Rice is a staple in countless cuisines. It’s best known for chicken and rice, beef and rice, curried rice, rice and beans, and cheesy broccoli rice.

Do you really need to rinse rice before cooking?

For basic long-grain rice, you do not. For any other types like basmati rice or jasmine rice, you’ll want to rinse to remove excess starch.

How long does it take to cook white rice?

It doesn’t take long at all. One cup of white rice takes about 17 minutes to cook, and larger amounts only take a few additional minutes.

What is the difference between white rice and brown rice?

Brown rice has a nutty flavor and takes longer to cook than white rice. White rice is brown rice with the bran and germ layers removed.

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