Tips on how to cook rice so that it doesn't burn and stick

Rice is a popular side dish not only in Asian countries, but also in Slovakia. A typical dish that we can hardly imagine without rice is, for example, roasted chicken or sautéed rice. But how to prepare rice so that it does not stick and burn to the bottom of the pot? If you are also struggling with this difficult task, we have a few tips for you.

Even such a simple ingredient as rice can cause trouble. All it takes is the wrong ratio of rice to water, too high a temperature or a long cooking time, and the loose side dish turns into a sticky porridge. Other times, it burns due to the influence of a strong flame, and in the worst case, it even destroys the pot. Why does rice stick and how to prepare it properly?

Your dilemma can be easily solved by a rice cooker, but we will advise you on how to manage cooking in a classic pot.

Why does rice stick when cooked?

There are several reasons and causes that can cause the sticky properties of rice. These are sometimes desired (for example, when preparing sushi or Italian risotto) and sometimes unwanted (rice as a side dish). The main reason is the starch, of which rice contains a large amount. When cooked, the starch is released into the water and sticks the grains together. Another reason may be too much water for the amount of rice. The rice is not able to completely soak into the rice, resulting in watery and sticky rice. 

Why does rice burn?

Burnt rice does not bode well, although in most cases the top part of the rice can be safely used. There can be several reasons for burnt rice. The most common is a cooking temperature that is too high, which causes the rice to stick to the bottom of the pot. Another reason could be insufficient water, insufficient stirring at the beginning of cooking, or the rice not standing up after cooking. Less common reasons are an unsuitable pot, which is either too wide, has a thin bottom, or has a sticky/damaged surface.

How to cook rice correctly?

Properly cooked rice should be slightly loose, fluffy and non-sticky. Of course, each person may prefer a slightly different method of preparation, so it is possible to adapt it to their taste. It also makes a difference whether we want rice as a side dish for meat, for Japanese sushi or Italian risotto. We will talk about how to cook rice as a side dish.

Recommended procedure

1. Choosing rice

First of all, you need to choose the right type of rice in the store. There are several of them, the most famous of which are:

• Round-grain rice – this includes classic round rice suitable as a side dish, but also special types of rice suitable for preparing risotto (e.g. arborio) or sushi (often referred to as sushi rice). 
• Long-grain rice - a looser type of rice with elongated grains, which is most suitable as a side dish. The most famous are e.g. basmati rice, jasmine rice or parboiled rice (it is pre-cooked).
• Brown rice – also known as natural or unpolished rice – does not have its outer husk removed, so it contains more vitamins, minerals and fiber. It is more beneficial for health, but takes longer to cook.

2. Rinsing the rice

An important step before cooking is to thoroughly rinse the rice in cold water. It is recommended to rinse the rice several times (2-3 times) until the water runs clear. An exception may be when cooking Italian risotto, when rinsing the rice is not recommended, because the starch in it is desirable.

3. Water to rice ratio

The correct ratio depends mainly on the type of rice, with the following ratios being recommended:

• Round grain rice  – 1 part rice, 2 parts water.
• Long grain rice – 1 part rice, 1.5 parts water.
• Brown rice – 1 part rice, 2.5 parts water.

4. Cooking

Always add hot water to the rice, not cold. So let the required amount of water boil (in a pot or kettle). Pour the appropriate amount of rice, which we have rinsed in advance, into the boiling water in the pot. Add a little salt to taste.

Then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid and cook the rice without stirring until the water is absorbed. The cooking time is approximately 15 to 20 minutes for white rice (round or long grain) and 30 to 40 minutes for brown rice. However, adjust the cooking time to the recommendations on the package.

5. Letting it stand

After cooking, it is necessary to let the rice stand for a while. So, remove it from the heat and let it rest under the lid for 5 to 10 minutes. This will allow the steam to be evenly absorbed into all the grains of rice. Then, gently mix the rice with a fork. The result will be a fluffy side dish. 

Tips for seasoning rice

• Add bay leaves or cinnamon to the water for a more interesting aroma.
• You can also use turmeric or curry powder to season the rice, which will result in a bright yellow and aromatic rice.
• You can give the rice maximum flavor by cooking it with onions that you have fried until translucent.
• After cooking, you can soften the rice with a little butter or olive oil. 
• In Asian cuisine, it is popular to season rice with a mixture of rice vinegar, sugar and salt. This is how sushi rice is prepared, for example.
  
  

What is the point of washing rice?

Washing rice has several benefits. The main task is to rid the rice of excess starch, which will significantly reduce its stickiness. Washed rice has a better structure, is looser and fluffier. We will also reduce the likelihood that the rice will stick to the bottom of the pot. 

Rinsing also removes impurities from the grains. Rice can contain dust and pesticide residues. Another dangerous substance in rice is toxic arsenic, which enters it from the soil or water. Rice absorbs it more than other crops, so it is necessary to reduce the amount of arsenic by rinsing.

Will a rice cooker help?

A rice cooker is a great tool that can make cooking rice much easier. Investing in it is especially worthwhile if you cook rice very often or in larger quantities. Thanks to a rice cooker, preparation is very simple, there is no need to watch the rice and there is no risk of burning or sticking. A rice cooker saves you time and effort.

The Orava multifunctional rice cooker will not only make it easier to prepare rice and side dishes, such as potatoes or rice, but you can also cook soups, sauces, porridge or steamed vegetables in it. Its operation is fully automatic, it includes a steam basket, and it also has a Keep Warm function, which keeps food warm for a long time. Simply a multifunctional helper for every household.

Now you know how to properly prepare rice and impress all your guests with a fluffy and tasty side dish.

Check out our other Orava kitchen appliances that can help you cook.