Never cook rice this way: why it sticks together and turns out bland

Rice is one of the most common and versatile cereals in cooking. It is used to prepare a wide variety of dishes, from pilaf to desserts.

However, it is not always possible to achieve the perfect result. Often, rice becomes too sticky, overcooked, or even tasteless. To make your rice flavorful, crumbly, and tasty, you should avoid common mistakes that are often made during cooking.

The FoodOboz editorial team suggests that you avoid them. Thus, you will be able to cook a truly delicious dish.

Wrong type of rice

Each type of rice has its own properties, and the result depends on the choice. If you want crumbly rice, choose long-grain or Jasmine rice. They hold their shape better during cooking and retain their texture. Round-grain rice is more suitable for dishes that require a creamy texture, such as risotto or cereals.

Not using an airtight lid

A lid that fits tightly over the pot is one of the key elements to ensure even cooking of the rice. If steam escapes from the pot, the rice may be undercooked or too dry. Do not open the lid during cooking - this disrupts the cooking process and affects the final result.

Incorrect amount of water

The proportion of water to rice is critical. Usually, a ratio of 1:2 (one part rice to two parts water) is suitable for long-grain rice. If there is too much water, the rice will become soggy, while a lack of water can lead to burning or uneven cooking.

Using cold water

Never put rice in cold water. You should start with hot water only so that the cereal is cooked evenly. Cold water slows down the process, which can cause the rice to become sticky and lose its crumbliness.

Using high heat

The ideal temperature for cooking rice is low to medium heat. First, bring the water to a boil over high heat, and then reduce it. High temperatures can make the rice too starchy, thus sticky.

Wrong choice of oil

Adding fat to rice significantly improves its flavor. For a richer flavor, you can use sesame oil, but if you don't have it, regular vegetable oil will do. It is also recommended to add a small amount of butter for a special flavor and tenderness.

Not following the cooking rules

Do not stir the rice during cooking, as this activates the starch and makes the cereal sticky. It's also important to let the rice "rest" after cooking: leave it in a saucepan with the lid closed for a few minutes to let the steam "finish" the dish.