Rice is an ingredient that is really versatile and used in many recipes but it is easy to get stuck in a rut. So many people think they can not cook boiled rice perfectly but I promise you that you can and I will show you how. All you need is a saucepan!

spoon of uncooked rice ready to cook boiled rice perfectly
spoon of uncooked rice

What makes rice stick in the first place?

Many of us have experienced the frustration of overcooked or sticky rice. But have you ever asked yourself why rice tends to stick when cooked?

The answer to this question is actually science based! Due to the unique composition of rice. It contains two types of starch molecules: amylose and amylopectin. Amylose is a long, linear molecule that tends to resist sticking, while amylopectin is a highly branched molecule that makes the rice sticky.

Additionally, when the rice is cooked in water, the starch molecules swell and absorb water, causing the rice to become sticky.

While sticky rice can be a desirable quality in certain dishes, learning how to properly cook rice can make all the difference in achieving the perfect texture and flavour.

Common mistakes when cooking rice

Even the most experienced home cooks can make mistakes. Sadly, many people tend to cook rice incorrectly, leading to soggy, mushy, or dry grains.

Some bloggers or cooks may suggest the perfect rice requires expensive gadgets or expensive ingredients. This is not true.

The truth is that you should pay more attention to cooking techniques to achieve the desired results than gadgets and expensive rice.

Consistent, fluffy rice is all about timing, water-to-rice ratio, and heat intensity. Inappropriate measuring, stirring too much, or rushing the process can make the rice lose its texture and flavour.

Basic tips to cook boiled rice perfectly

Never stir rice when it is cooking, as, provided it has enough liquid in it, it will not stick. Stirring breaks up the grains of rice and makes it go sticky and is not the way to cook boiled rice perfectly!

If you are boiling rice the easiest way to measure it is by volume using cups full rather than weight. This makes it so much easier to cook and get the right amount of water.

I don’t generally use cups as a measurement as I see them as a very American term, but actually, for rice, it is easier, so do give it a go!

There are even ways to cook it in the microwave but I promise you that you will love this method to cook boiled rice perfectly.

Mushroom stroganoff
Mushroom stroganoff

How to cook rice perfectly- white long grain or basmati rice

If you can always follow these simple steps you will be guaranteed to cook boiled rice perfectly.

Step 1

Measure the rice you need into a sieve. Use one cup for every 2-3 cooked rice portions. So if you are making 4 portions, you need around two cups of dry rice.

Then for every cup of dry rice, you need two cups of water. If you prefer smaller or larger portions, adjust appropriately.

The table below should help guide you. If you prefer grams, then a cup of rice is approximately 200g, and a cup of water is 200 ml.

Portion control is essential on any diet, so be sure to measure!

Portions neededCups of riceCups of water
10.51
212
31.53
424
52.55
636
Cooking white rice perfectly

Step 2

Rinse the rice in cold water using the sieve until the water runs clear. Alternatively, soak in cold water for 30 minutes then drain well and give a quick rinse.

Step 3

Put the rice into a saucepan and add the appropriate amount of water.

Use boiling water to speed up the cooking time, but cold water will work fine too.

If you like a little salt add it now. Place on the hob at the highest heat.

Step 4

Bring to a boil and then turn the temperature down so the water is bubbling a little but not violently and leave for approximately 10 minutes.

Try not to stir the rice at this point. It is unnecessary and can make it sticky as you accidentally break the grains and make them starchy.

Step 5

When the water is fully absorbed and the rice is fluffy, it will be done. If after 10 minutes it is not quite done leave a little longer.

Remove from the heat and serve. You have successfully cooked boiled rice perfectly!

bowl of Caribbean rice

How to cook boiled brown rice perfectly

Brown rice is cooked in the same way as the white rice above but does need more water to cook and a little longer, around 15-20 minutes, usually after boiling point. The table below should help you.

Portions neededCups of riceCups of water
10.51.25
212.5
31.53.75
425
52.56.25
637.5
Cooking brown rice perfectly

Making meals with your boiled rice

There are so many meals to enjoy now you can cook boiled rice perfectly. Curries, of course, are a favourite, my favourite curry recipes are all in my curries guide!

Stir fry also goes really well with rice and doesn’t really need a recipe; just chuck in whatever you fancy, stir and fry until cooked and serve with your freshly boiled rice!

Other meals you could make with rice are in my dedicated recipes post.

If you like tasty Chinese, why not check out my Chinese fakeaway selection and create a menu full of takeaway alternatives?

Images in this article are Caribbean rice and Mushroom Stroganoff.

Alternatives to rice with meals

If you fancy something different to rice with a meal or still can not master this, then how about hash browns?

Whilst it is not common to have curry with pasta, you can certainly try it or perhaps make Slimming World wedges.

If you are not a fan of rice or don’t like cooking it, there is no reason not to make something else. As long as you enjoy whatever you eat, that is what matters.

If you are not too confident a cook, why not check out my tips and recipes with butternut squash too?

Have you made my egg fried rice yet?

Are omelettes something else you struggle with? Tips to make omelettes and with eggs, in general, can be found here.

Not everyone can cook well, but simple, easy recipes can make you a great cook in no time.

Do you ever make risotto? Here is how you can easily make risotto and some recipes to try too; my favourite is mushroom risotto.

If you like doing anything the easy way, then do check out one of my other websites, Live the Easy Life or read my guide to easily buying wall art for your home. Nothing should ever be difficult, I love finding easy ways to do anything!

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About Author

Hi, I’m Jen Mellor; I live in Nottingham, UK. and use my knowledge and experience in weight loss and confidence to help you become your own cheerleader and best friend. I am usually seen wearing colourful leggings and love to wear bright colours. Wear what you love, and be proud of your style and choices!

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