Basic Fluffy White Rice
AI-generated image
Vegan Gluten-free Global

Basic Fluffy White Rice

Tender, separate grains of long-grain white rice cooked by the covered absorption method. This dependable side pairs well with vegetables, curries, braises, grilled foods, and stir-fries.

40 min 4 servings Medium
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How to prepare

1
Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh sieve under cold running water, gently stirring with your fingers, until the water runs mostly clear. Drain thoroughly for at least 1 minute.
2
Combine the drained rice, 450 ml water, and salt in a heavy 2-liter saucepan. Let the rice stand in the water for 5 minutes so the grains begin to hydrate evenly.
3
Bring the uncovered saucepan to a full boil over medium-high heat, about 4 to 5 minutes; bubbles should cover the surface.
4
Stir once, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and reduce the heat to the lowest setting. Cook gently for 15 minutes without lifting the lid, until the water is absorbed and small steam channels appear across the rice.
Fluffy long-grain white rice with small steam channels after the water has been absorbed. AI-generated image
5
Remove the saucepan from the heat and leave it covered for 10 minutes. Fluff gently with a fork, lifting from the bottom without crushing the grains, then serve hot.
Bowl of fluffy long-grain white rice with tender, separate grains, ready to serve. AI-generated image

Why this recipe works

Rinsing removes excess surface starch. A measured amount of water, gentle covered cooking, and a 10-minute rest let the grains absorb moisture evenly without turning mushy.

Storage and reheating

How to store it

Cool leftover rice as quickly as possible, ideally within 1 hour. Divide it into shallow airtight containers, refrigerate promptly, and use within 24 hours or freeze. Discard rice left at room temperature for more than 2 hours.

How to reheat it

Reheat rice only once, until steaming hot throughout (74°C/165°F when checked with a food thermometer). Add 1 tablespoon of water per cup of rice, cover, and heat in the microwave or on the stovetop; stir to eliminate cold spots.

Nutrition / serving

274kcal
5.33 gprotein
60.00 gcarbs
0.53 gfat
P
Pantryvale editorial kitchen
Recipe prepared for publication with complete ingredients and ordered cooking steps.
Published 22 Aug 2026 · updated 24 Aug 2026