How to cook rice on the stove

5 from 4 votes

Learn how to cook rice on the stove with this easy step-by-step method. Perfectly fluffy white rice every time using the correct rice to water ratio.

Servings: 4 servings

Prep Time: 5

Cook Time: 10

Resting Time 5

Total Time: 20

Rinse the rice until the water runs clear.
Combine the rice with water, salt, and oil in a saucepan.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and leave the rice covered for 5 minutes. This allows the remaining steam to finish cooking the grains.
Fluff the rice with a fork and serve.

Rice-to-water ratio: Use 1½ cups of water for every 1 cup of white rice. Different rice varieties may need slight adjustments.
Use a tight-fitting lid: Keeping the steam inside helps the rice cook evenly without drying out.
Keep the heat low: Once the water boils, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer to prevent the rice from sticking or burning.
For fluffier rice: After cooking, let the rice rest covered for 5 minutes, then gently separate the grains with a fork.