Perfectly Cooked Plain Rice: Absorption Method

1. Rinse the Rice

Begin by placing the short-grain rice in a bowl and covering it with cold water. Gently swish the grains around to remove excess starch, which can make the rice sticky. Drain the rice using a strainer and repeat the rinsing process a couple of times until the water runs clear. This step ensures that your rice will have a light, fluffy texture.

2. Combine Rice and Water

In a heavy saucepan, combine the rinsed rice with 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons of cold water. This precise amount of water is crucial for the absorption method, as it will allow the rice to cook evenly and absorb the right amount of moisture.

3. Bring to a Boil

Cover the saucepan with a lid and place it over medium-high heat. Let the rice and water come to a boil. You'll know it's ready for the next step when you see steam escaping from under the lid.

4. Simmer Gently

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, maintaining a gentle simmer. Let the rice cook for about 15 minutes. During this time, the rice will absorb the water, and the grains will become tender. This gentle simmer is key to cooking the grains evenly without burning them.

5. Rest the Rice

After the 15 minutes are up and the water is absorbed, turn off the heat but keep the lid on the saucepan. Let the rice rest for 10 minutes. This resting period allows the steam to finish the cooking process and ensures each grain is perfectly cooked.

6. Fluff and Serve

Finally, remove the lid and use a fork or rice paddle to gently fluff the rice, separating the grains without breaking them. Serve your perfectly cooked rice as a side dish or as a base for your favorite main course. Enjoy!