Jasmine rice is one of the most fragrant and flavorful varieties of rice available on the market. This long-grain rice has a delicate fragrance and subtle taste that pairs well with many different cuisines. Cooking jasmine rice is relatively easy and can be done on stovetop, in a rice cooker, or even in a microwave. In this article, we’ll cover how to cook jasmine rice perfectly and answer some common FAQs about cooking this wonderful grain.
How to Cook Jasmine Rice on the Stovetop
Step 1: Rinse the rice
The first step to cooking jasmine rice on the stovetop is to rinse the rice. Rinse a cup of rice or two in a bowl filled with cool water. Drain the water and repeat the process until the water runs clear. The rinsing process will help to remove the excess starch and improve the texture of the cooked rice.
Step 2: Soak the rice
After rinsing the rice, soak it in a bowl with water for at least 30 minutes. This will help to soften the rice and make it cook faster and evenly.
Step 3: Cook the rice
To cook the rice, add the drained rice to a pot. Add 1 ½ cups of water for every cup of rice. Season with a pinch of salt and bring to a boil over high heat. Once it has reached boiling point, stir the rice once, cover the pot with a tight lid and reduce the heat to low.
Cook the rice for 18-20 minutes or until all the water has been absorbed and the rice is tender. Do not lift the lid during the cooking process as it will release the steam and affect the cooking. Once done, remove the pot from the heat and fluff the rice with a fork. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
How to Cook Jasmine Rice in a Rice Cooker
Step 1: Rinse the rice
The rinsing process for jasmine rice remains the same, no matter the cooking method. Rinse the rice in a bowl of cool water until the water runs clear. Drain the water and rinse again until the water is clear.
Step 2: Soak the rice
After rinsing, soak the rice in water for at least 30 minutes. This will help the rice to cook evenly and faster.
Step 3: Add water and cook
Add the drained rice to the rice cooker. Add 1 ½ cups of water for every cup of rice. Season with a pinch of salt and set the rice cooker to cook.
Once the rice cooker has finished cooking, let it rest for 10 minutes before fluffing the rice with a fork. Your perfectly cooked jasmine rice is ready to serve.
How to Cook Jasmine Rice in the Microwave
While cooking jasmine rice in the microwave is not the most common option, it is a quick and easy way to cook rice. Here’s how.
Step 1: Rinse the rice
Rinse the rice in a bowl of cool water until the water is clear. Drain and rinse again.
Step 2: Add water and cook
Add the drained rice to a microwave-safe dish. Add 1 ½ cups of water for every cup of rice. Season with a pinch of salt.
Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, and cook on high power for 10 minutes.
After 10 minutes, remove the dish from the microwave. Let it rest for 5 minutes before fluffing the rice with a fork.
FAQs
Q: Is jasmine rice better than other types of rice?
A: Whether jasmine rice is better than other types of rice depends on your personal preference. Jasmine rice is known for its fragrance and delicate flavor, which make it a popular choice for many dishes.
Q: Can you store cooked jasmine rice in the fridge?
A: Yes, you can store cooked jasmine rice in the fridge for up to 5 days. Make sure to keep it in an airtight container and refrigerate promptly after cooking.
Q: How much water should you use to cook jasmine rice?
A: The general rule for cooking jasmine rice is to use 1 ½ cups of water for every cup of rice.
Q: Can you freeze cooked jasmine rice?
A: Yes, you can freeze cooked jasmine rice for up to 6 months. Make sure to store it in an airtight container or freezer bag.
Q: Why should you soak jasmine rice before cooking?
A: Soaking jasmine rice helps to soften it and make it cook faster and more evenly. Soaking also helps to remove excess starch from the rice, which can improve its texture.
Conclusion
Jasmine rice is a delicious and versatile grain that can be used in many different types of dishes. Whether you prefer to cook it on the stovetop, in a rice cooker, or in the microwave, using these simple steps will result in perfect jasmine rice every time. Remember to rinse and soak the rice beforehand to improve its texture and cook it with the right amount of water for the best results.
