Prepared rice is the perfect base for so many dishes. It’s inexpensive and easy to store in the pantry, plus it’s extremely versatile in terms of flavor and cooking methods.

Whether you like your rice nutty, sweet, or savory, this ingredient can be enhanced in all kinds of ways, from adding a little butter to infusing it with spices and flavors. We’ve gathered a few simple, foolproof tricks to help you cook up the most delicious rice possible.

How to Make Prepared White Rice on the Stove

The key to making fluffy, perfectly cooked rice is to follow a few simple rules that will ensure that your rice comes out just right every time. Start by measuring out a cup of white rice and add it to a saucepan with water that’s at least twice as much as you think you’ll need. This will keep the grains from getting stuck together and will also ensure that you get the proper texture for risottos, rice bowls, and other recipes that require cooked rice.

Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring to a boil. Then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot, maintaining a gentle simmer. Cook until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender, about 18 minutes. Don’t peek during this time because you don’t want to disturb the steam that’s building up.

How to Make Fluffy Buttery Rice on the Stove

One of the most common mistakes people make when cooking rice is that they overcook it. Overcooking rice can make it mushy or even turn sticky. To avoid this, follow these simple steps to make perfectly cooked rice:

Rinse the Rice

This is a very important step for any recipe that calls for white rice. It helps remove any excess starch that might have collected during the cooking process and therefore makes your rice fluffier.

The right ratio of water to rice is important, too: Too much water will cause the rice to become overly soft and sticky. The perfect ratio for stovetop cooking is 1:1.5.

Always Use Fresh Water

You don’t need to buy the most expensive brand of water to make your rice taste its best. The most important thing is to use fresh, clean water that’s not too high in minerals and has no contaminants. If you’re using an already-bought liquid, be sure to check the ingredients to ensure that it doesn’t contain any harmful chemicals or toxins.

If you’re using a broth, be sure to use the highest quality chicken or vegetable stock you can find. You can also use broths infused with herbs or spices.

A great broth makes all the difference in your dish, so don’t skimp on this essential element. A good broth will not only make your meal better, it will also save you money in the long run because it will help you create more flavorful dishes with fewer ingredients!

How to Make Fluffy, Perfectly Cooked Jasmine or Basmati Rice on the Stove

A key to cooking aromatic rice varieties is keeping them separate from the liquid, as this will enhance their natural flavor. A trick to help separate the grains is to add a knob of butter or spoonful of oil at the beginning of the rice-cooking process.