Chefs Reveal Simple Mistake to Avoid When Cooking Rice

Cooking rice well at home can be tricky, but experts say the key to tender rice with distinct grains may begin before turning on the stove. Rinsing rice before cooking can remove loose surface starch that makes rice gummy or clumpy. However, not every type of rice should be treated the same, and chefs recommend adjusting technique for the type of rice used. A recent side-by-side test found that rinsed and soaked basmati and jasmine rice were lighter and fluffier than unwashed rice. To improve rice, home cooks can also try using the right water ratio, toasting rice in a little oil or butter, and letting it rest before fluffing with a fork.