How to Cook White Rice

A simple, step-by-step tutorial (plus video!) on how to cook perfect white rice every time, plus some delicious ideas for how to use it.

Recipe by Minimalist Baker on December 28, 2018

Cook time: PT20M

Total time: PT20M

Rating

4.81 stars (36 reviews)

white rice

Add rice and water to a medium saucepan and bring to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, lower heat to a simmer and cover. Ensure it's simmering and not boiling or the rice can cook too quickly.
Simmer until water is completely absorbed and rice is tender – about 15-25 minutes (will depend on size and freshness of rice). Drain off any excess water if there is any (there shouldn't be).
I like to turn off the heat, remove the lid, fluff with a fork, put the lid back on, and let rest for 10 minutes so the moisture redistributes to prevent mushy rice. This rice is delicious in things like stir fries, sushi, with stews, and more!
Store cooled leftovers covered in the refrigerator up to 5-6 days, or in the freezer up to 1 month. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a little oil or water until warm.

Ten on 2025-06-26 (5 stars):
This is the only recipe I use for rice! I love it! Here’s a tip that hopefully helps someone: I used to have an electric range and my rice tended to cook too fast even though I turned the heat down as instructed. Eventually I figured out it was happening because the burner stayed hot for quite a long time - it would look like a simmer at first but creep right back up to a boil. In order to keep the rice at a true simmer, I had to completely remove the pan from heat for a couple of minutes while the burner I was using cooled down.
Jaroslaw Czach on 2025-03-04 (5 stars):
AFTER THE RICE WAS COOKED I ADDED ABOUT A TABLESPOON AND A HALF OF BUTTER AND A LITTLE BIT OF SALT AND MIXED IT AND LET IT SIT FOR 10 MINUTES IT MADE THE RICE TASTE DELICIOUS AS WELL AS I USED CHICKEN BROTH AS THE WATER TO COOK THE RICE
Paul Fabela on 2025-02-12 (5 stars):
Minimalist is exactly the best information available for real cooking advice!
Paul Christian Fabela on 2025-02-12 (5 stars):
This is the way that I was taught to make rice simple without question. Hands down. I wish more recipes would eliminate unnecessary steps or suggestions. Thank you for keeping it simple.
Paula Almeida on 2024-08-07 (5 stars):
Hi what I can mix in the rice when it cooks for different tastes, please
Syed on 2024-06-30 (5 stars):
Excellent follows your recipe religiously. Thanks for sharing.