America's Test Kitchen LogoCook's Country LogoCook's Illustrated Logo

Rules for Cooking Rice

If you have trouble achieving perfectly cooked long-grain or basmati rice, try these tips.

For drier, fluffier long-grain or basmati rice, follow these suggestions.

RINSE IT: Rinsing raw grains removes surface starch that will otherwise absorb water during cooking, causing grains to stick.

GRAB A TOWEL: Once the rice is cooked, cover the pan with a clean kitchen towel, replace the lid, and allow the rice to sit off heat for 10 minutes. The towel will soak up steam and prevent stickiness.

This is a members' feature.