Once you know how to cook rice perfectly, youll be able to tackle many dishes with confidence.

Here, we’ll show you how to cook rice perfectly every time.

First, we have a classic recipe for you to follow.

Southern Living How to Cook Rice in a bowl to serve with a serving spoon

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

Then, keep reading for tips and answers to common questions about cooking rice.

Add rice:

Stir in rice and salt, and let return to a simmer.

Lower the heat to low, cover, and let cook undisturbed for 18 minutes.

Southern Living How to Cook Rice bringing the water up to a boil

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Let stand:

Uncover the pot and let stand 1 minute.

Fluff the rice and serve.

Which key in Of Rice Should You Use?

Southern Living How to Cook Rice adding the rice and salt to the pot

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

Should You Rinse Rice With Water?

Choosing whether to rinse your rice is a matter of personal preference.

Some rice aficionados argue that you shouldnt rinse enriched rice, because it could wash away added nutrients.

Southern Living How to Cook Rice after cooking before fluffing

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

Should You Salt The Rice Water?

Just as youd salt pasta water to avoid bland noodles, youll also want to salt your rice water.

How To Cook Rice: A Step-by-Step Guide

First, gather your ingredients.

Southern Living How to Cook Rice fluffing the rice with a fork

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

Rice, water, and salt are the basics.

Important

see to it you have a matching lid for your pot.

A good seal between pot and lid is important for creating steam.

Southern Living How to Cook Rice ingredients

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How Long Does It Take For Rice To Cook?

For long-grain white rice, set a timer for 18 minutes, and quickly check it after that period.

If youre using another key in of rice, follow the instructions on the package.

Southern Living How to Cook Rice rinsing the rice

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

you’re able to give it a quick taste to see if the texture is to your liking.

If your rice looks too watery when the timer dings, strain out the excess liquid.

Then return it to the pot and set the burner to low for a few minutes.

Crispy Rice on a white plate

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

Add a little more liquid, and cook on low.

What Does It Mean To Fluff Rice?

There is one caveat: This trick only works if you cook your rice correctly in the first place.

Turn on your cooker, and cook according to the instructions.

Microwave on high, uncovered, for 10 minutes.

Then, without stirring, continue to cook on medium-low power for 15 more minutes.

Season and fluff before serving.

Heat the oven to 375F.

Dont forget to add salt, too.

Then, store it in an airtight container before placing it in the refrigerator.

If you wont be craving rice again for a while, freeze it for up to three months.

Reheat in the microwave on medium power, stirring every 30 seconds or so until hot.

you might also reheat on the stovetop, stirring the grains carefully so as to not mash them.