Rice

The main dietary staple for half the world, rice is an infinitely adaptable grain. “Long-grain” means a rice kernel is three to four times as long as it is wide, whereas short-grain rice is almost round.

Common Varieties:
Basmati, Brown

This long-grain rice has a nutty flavor and a dry texture—a light and delicate option for those switching from white. Its cooking formula is as follows:

Rice: 1 cup.

Water: 2 cups.

Time: 50 minutes.

For detailed cooking instructions for all varieties, see How to Prepare, below.

Basmati, White

With cooking, this fragrant long-grain rice expands dramatically in length and becomes fluffy.

Rice: 1 cup.

Water: 1½ cups.

Time: 18 minutes.

Brown, Long-Grain

This finely textured rice has a dense, earthy flavor. The grains cook up light and separate.

Rice: 1 cup.

Water: 2 cups.

Time: 50 minutes.

Brown, Short-Grain

Chewier than other brown-rice varieties, this mildly sticky grain has a robust, nutty taste.

Rice: 1 cup.

Water: 2 cups.

Time: 50 minutes.

Jasmine

Soft and slightly clingy, this long-grain white rice has an appetizing aroma of roasted nuts and popcorn.

Rice: 1 cup.

Water: 1½ cups.

Time: 18 minutes.

Sushi

A firm and slightly gelatinous short-grain rice, this can be served simply steamed or mixed with vinegar and sugar for sushi.

Rice: 1 cup.

Water: 1½ cups.

Time: 18 minutes.

White, Long-Grain

This American staple (sometimes known as “Carolina rice”) has a fluffy texture and a neutral flavor.

Rice: 1 cup.

Water: 1½ cups.

Time: 18 minutes.

Wild

Not technically rice, this grass seed has a squeaky shell and a robust taste. It’s often sold blended with long-grain brown rice.

Rice: 1 cup.

Water: 2 cups (drain water after cooking).

Time: 50 minutes.
How to Store Rice
Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, uncooked white rice keeps up to 2 years, whole-grain rice only up to 6 months (the oil in the bran can become rancid with time). Cooked rice can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 6 months.
How to Prepare Rice
In a medium saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, combine rice and water (see Common Varieties, above, for specific amounts for each rice type). Add ½ teaspoon salt and bring to a boil. Stir once, cover, and reduce heat to low.

Simmer for specified time. (Do not lift the lid or stir!) Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes; fluff with a fork and serve. (Note: For richer flavor, use chicken or vegetable broth in place of water, or add a tablespoon of butter.)

—Lindsay Funston

Real Simple Rice Recipes:
See all Rice recipes »
How To: Cook Rice
Say good-bye to sticky rice, undercooked rice, or dry, overcooked rice: With the technique deconstrated in this video, cooking rice perfectly is a snap.