Learn how to cook rice perfectly every time. This is our go-to method to make fluffy white rice and it's so easy. To cook rice on the stove, all you need is a medium saucepan with a tight-fitting lid.
Rinse your rice if desired and drain well. In a medium saucepan, add 1 cup rice, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1 Tbsp butter (if using) to the pan.
Add 2 cups water and bring to a boil, uncovered, over medium heat.
Reduce heat to a low simmer, cover with a tight fitting lid and cook for 18 minutes. You should hear faint simmer and hissing sounds while it's cooking.
After 18 minutes*, remove the pan from the heat and let it rest for 5-10 minutes with the lid on then fluff with a fork and serve hot.
Notes
*I like to open the lid and check the rice after 18 minutes. If there is a little excess liquid, the rice should re-absorb it as it rests. If it seems too dry, add a drizzle of boiling hot water and stir in a pat of butter then cover and let it rest for perfectly moist rice.
Nutrition Facts
How to Cook Rice on the Stove
Amount per Serving
Calories
194
% Daily Value*
Fat
3
g
5
%
Saturated Fat
2
g
13
%
Cholesterol
8
mg
3
%
Sodium
324
mg
14
%
Potassium
53
mg
2
%
Carbohydrates
37
g
12
%
Fiber
1
g
4
%
Sugar
1
g
1
%
Protein
3
g
6
%
Vitamin A
89
IU
2
%
Calcium
17
mg
2
%
Iron
1
mg
6
%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.