Boiled Rice

Ingredients:

• 1 cup rice
• Water
• Salt (optional)

Instructions:

1. Rinse the Rice:

   • Place the rice in a fine-mesh sieve or colander and rinse it under cold water. Rinse until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch from the rice.

2. Soak the Rice (Optional):

   • Soaking the rice is optional but can help achieve fluffier rice. Soak the rinsed rice in water for about 15-30 minutes. Drain before cooking.

3. Boil Water:

   • In a pot or saucepan, bring a large amount of water to a boil. The ratio of water to rice is typically 2:1, so for 1 cup of rice, use about 2 cups of water. You can adjust the amount of water based on your preference for softer or firmer rice.

4. Add Salt (Optional):

   • Adding salt to the boiling water is optional but can enhance the flavor of the rice. Add about 1/2 teaspoon of salt per cup of rice, if desired.

5. Cook the Rice:

   • Once the water is boiling, add the drained rice to the pot. Stir gently to prevent sticking.
   • Let the rice cook uncovered at a rolling boil. Stir occasionally to prevent clumping.

6. Test for Doneness:

   • Cook the rice for about 10-15 minutes, or until it is tender but still has a slight bite to it. The exact cooking time may vary depending on the type of rice and your preference for doneness.

7. Drain the Rice (Optional):

   • Once the rice is cooked to your liking, drain it in a fine-mesh sieve or colander to remove excess water. You can also use a rice cooker with a built-in strainer.

8. Fluff the Rice:

   • Transfer the drained rice back to the pot or a serving dish. Use a fork to fluff the rice gently. This helps separate the grains and prevent them from sticking together.

9. Serve:

   • Serve the boiled rice hot as a side dish with your favorite curry, stew, or stir-fry.

Enjoy your perfectly cooked boiled rice as a versatile and comforting accompaniment to a variety of dishes! Adjust the cooking time and water ratio based on your preference for texture and doneness.