Rice can be cooked using three different methods, each requiring a specific ratio of water to rice. These methods include boiling, which uses 12 times as much water as rice; the Japanese method, which uses 5 times as much water; and steaming, which uses 2-1/2 times as much water. Regardless of the method chosen, it is important to ensure that the rice grains remain whole and separate when cooked. To achieve this, avoid stirring the rice too frequently during cooking and do not overcook it.
Boiled Rice:
Boiling is one of the simplest methods for cooking rice. Properly boiled rice is not only a delicious dish on its own but also serves as an excellent base for other dishes. The water used to boil rice should not be discarded, as it contains valuable nutrients. This water can be used in soups, sauces, or even as a liquid for making yeast bread.
Boiled Rice Recipe:
- 1 cup rice
- 3 teaspoons salt
- 3 quarts boiling water
Wash the rice thoroughly and add it to the boiling salted water. Boil rapidly until the water becomes milky or until a grain can be easily crushed between your fingers. Drain the cooked rice through a colander, then rinse it with cold water to remove excess starch and keep the grains separate. Reheat the rice by gently shaking it over the heat, and serve hot with butter, gravy, cream, or milk and sugar.
Japanese Method:
Rice cooked using the Japanese method can be used in the same way as boiled rice. However, this method is more economical, especially if the liquid from boiled rice is not being used.
Japanese Method Recipe:
- 1 cup rice
- 1-1/2 teaspoons salt
- 5 cups boiling water
Wash the rice and add it to the boiling salted water. Boil gently for 15 minutes, then cover the pot and place it in the oven for an additional 15 minutes to allow the water to evaporate completely and the grains to become soft without turning mushy. Serve the rice as you would boiled rice.
Steamed Rice:
Steaming rice takes longer than the other methods but results in no loss of nutrients. If the rice is not stirred too much while steaming, it will have a better appearance than rice cooked using other methods. Like boiled rice, steamed rice can be used as a base for various dishes and can be served at any meal.
Steamed Rice Recipe:
- 1 cup rice
- 1-1/2 teaspoons salt
- 2-1/2 cups water
Wash the rice thoroughly and add it to the boiling salted water. Cook for 5 minutes, then transfer to a double boiler and allow it to cook until soft. Keep the pot covered, and avoid stirring the rice. Steaming rice in this manner takes about an hour. Serve the steamed rice in the same way as boiled rice.
