How to Make Rice on the Stovetop, Perfect Every Time

Name: How to Make Rice on the Stovetop, Perfect Every Time
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 serving(s)
Ingredients: 1 c. long-grain rice, rinsed; 1 1/4 c. water; 1/4 tsp. kosher salt

Our ratio of rice to water is foolproof.

By Tina MartinezPublished: Sep 26, 2025

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mike garten

Yields:

4 serving(s)

Total Time:

25 mins

Rice is a pantry staple that works as both the base of a meal and a simple side, pairing well with everything from glazed meats to cozy curries. Cooking it just right can be tricky, but this step-by-step guide for cooking rice on the stovetop makes it easy. You can use this method for long grain, extra long grain or jasmine rice—just not short grain, brown or sushi rice or basmati (which usually needs a 15- to 20-minute soak first).

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Ingredients

1 cup
long-grain rice, rinsed
1 1/4 cups
water
1/4 tsp.
kosher salt

Directions

1. Step 1In medium saucepan, bring rice, water, and salt to a simmer. Cover with tight fitting lid, reduce heat to low and gently simmer (do not stir or uncover) until rice is tender and water has been absorbed, 12 to 15 min. Remove from heat and let steam, covered, 5 min. Fluff with fork.

Should I rinse rice before cooking?

Yes! For a fluffier texture, you'll want to rinse your rice first. This step helps to remove excess starch and separate the grains. Rinsing rice also washes away any dirt and debris.

rinsing rice in a strainer under the water faucet

mike garten

What is the perfect ratio of water to rice on the stovetop?

The golden ratio on the stovetop is 1¼:1. That means 1 ¼ cups water to 1 cup rice. During our testing, we experimented with more or less water, but found this ratio resulted in rice with the best texture.