Things You'll Need

Instructions

On the Stovetop

1

Place the rice into a bowl of water. Swish the rice around in the water to loosen any unwanted particles. Drain it into a mesh sieve. Repeat the washing process a few more times. Drain and rinse the rice a final time.
2

Combine rice and water in a large saucepan on the stove. Add a few dashes of salt and an optional pat of butter or a drizzle olive oil. For white long-grain rice, add 1 3/4 cups water for every 1 cup of rice. Alternatively, if you are making brown rice, use 2 1/4 cups water per cup of rice.
3

Bring the rice and water to a boil over high heat. Reduce the heat to a low simmer and cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid. Do not stir the rice. Allow it to cook, covered, until the water is completely absorbed and the rice is tender, about 12 to 15 minutes for 1 cup of regular long-grain rice; about 35 minutes for brown rice. Use a kitchen timer to ensure you don't overcook the rice.
4

Remove the pot from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 to 30 minutes to allow the steam to distribute fully through the rice. Let brown rice steam for at least 10 minutes. Fluff the rice fully with a fork before serving.

In the Microwave

1

Combine water, rice (which can be rinsed), salt and butter or oil in a deep, microwave-safe baking dish. Cover tightly with a lid. Use the same ratio of rice and water as you would on the stovetop.
2

Place the baking dish into the microwave and set it for 5 minutes on "HIGH." Bring the water to a boil, and then reduce the power to "MEDIUM." Microwave for another 15 minutes for white rice and about 20 minutes for brown rice, or until all the water is fully absorbed.
3

Leave the rice in the microwave with the lid closed for at least 5 to 10 minutes, allowing the steam to distribute through the rice. Remove it from the microwave. Fluff the rice before serving, using a fork.