There are a variety of ways to make loose rice, but the basic process is fairly simple. First, wash the rice to remove any residue from the rice cooker or from the field. You can use a fine mesh sieve to separate the grains and to sift out any stray starch.
Second, set the water to boil. Stir the rice once to let it cook steadily. This step is important because it can help prevent the rice from sticking together. Adding salt is a good idea, as it helps season the rice.
Third, cover the pot. The pot should be covered with a lid and set over a low heat. Do not lift the lid, as this could cause the water to evaporate, which could result in soggy rice.
Fourth, add a small amount of oil. Loose rice will absorb a lot of moisture, which may be detrimental to the texture of the finished dish. A tablespoon or so of oil should suffice, but a little goes a long way.
Fifth, use a large, tight-fitting pan. This is crucial because it can prevent the grains from sticking to each other and it can also allow for a more even cooking process. To prevent condensation from dripping onto the rice, use a kitchen towel to wrap around the top of the pot.
Finally, put the rice on a plate. Rest it for at least fifteen minutes. If possible, you can also put it in the fridge. It is also a good idea to keep a thermometer handy. If you do not have one, you can get an estimate by measuring the temperature of the rice and the water.
In addition, you should not stir the rice too much. Adding too much motion can break the grains and make the rice sticky. Similarly, stirring too often can cause the rice to turn into mush.
For the best results, use two cups of water for every cup of rice. If you are using a rice cooker, be sure to use a lid that is both tight-fitting and appropriately sized. Also, be wary of peeking while the rice is cooking. Not only could this result in the water absorbing too quickly, but it could also alter the cooking time.
The most effective way to make loose rice is to use a large pot, and to cook it over a medium-low heat. Once the rice has soaked for ten minutes, it should be ready to eat. Remember to turn the heat off when it is done.
When you are finished, you can fluff the rice with a fork. If it is still soggy, save it until you can dry it and serve it. After it is dried, you can make a variety of different recipes with it.
Of course, there are many other tips and tricks that can make preparing and serving your rice a cinch. Check out Martha Stewart’s article on fluffy rice to learn more.