How to Cook Long Grain Rice

Light, fluffy, and evenly cooked, this stovetop method shows How to Cook Long Grain Rice perfectly every time using simple ingredients and the traditional absorption technique for soft, separate grains.

I know this post on How to Cook Long Grain Rice might seem simple, but many people aren’t sure how to make it properly.

I was one of them until I met my husband. Italians usually cook short-grain rice for risotto, soups, or salads, and we boil it in water the same way we cook pasta.

You can do that with long grain rice too, but when it’s cooked properly, it makes all the difference. Fluffy, separate grains can turn a plain meal into something special.

My favourite way is the absorption method. It’s easy, reliable, and gives complete control over water and cooking time. The rice comes out tender without being sticky.

I don’t always rinse jasmine rice, as I sometimes prefer a softer texture, but that depends on taste. The same method works for basmati rice with a slightly different ratio.

Key Ingredients for How to Cook Long Grain Rice

Jasmine Rice

A fragrant long-grain rice known for its soft texture and delicate aroma. It stays light and fluffy once cooked, with grains that remain separate rather than clumping together. Basmati or other long-grain varieties can be used too, but jasmine rice gives a particularly tender finish.

Water

The right amount of water is key to this method. Too much makes the rice heavy and sticky, while too little leaves it undercooked. The precise ratio in this recipe gives perfectly absorbed moisture and an even texture from top to bottom.

Salt

A small amount of salt brings balance and enhances the rice’s natural sweetness. It also seasons the water evenly so every grain takes on flavour during cooking.

Find the complete list with measurements in the recipe card below.

How to Cook Long Grain Rice

Step 1: Rinse the rice three times in cold water to remove excess starch. You can skip this step for a slightly stickier texture.

Step 2: Place the washed rice in a pot. Add the water, salt, and oil. Stir to combine.

Step 3: Bring the water to a boil. Cover the pot, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 15 minutes, or until all the water has been absorbed. Remove from the heat.

Step 4: Keep the pot covered for 5 minutes to let the steam finish cooking the rice.

Step 5: Fluff gently with a fork and serve.

Extra Help from the Kitchen

Use the Right Lid – Choose a pot with a well-fitting lid so the steam stays trapped inside. Consistent steam is what allows the rice to cook evenly from top to bottom.

Try the Towel Trick – For even fluffier rice, place a clean tea towel between the pot and lid during the resting time to absorb excess moisture.

Let It Rest Undisturbed – Once the rice is cooked, leave it covered for a few minutes before fluffing. This short rest lets the remaining steam finish softening the grains without overcooking them.

Avoid Stirring While Cooking – Stirring breaks the grains and releases starch, which can make the rice sticky. Once the lid is on, leave it alone until it’s time to rest.

Test the Ratio First – Water absorption can vary slightly between brands and even batches of rice. Try the method once, then adjust the water next time if you prefer a drier or softer texture.

Variations and Twists

Basmati Rice – Use basmati instead of jasmine for a lighter texture and subtle aroma. Reduce the simmer time slightly so the grains stay firm and separate.

Coconut Rice – Replace half of the water with coconut milk and leave out the oil. The rice becomes tender and fragrant, perfect with seafood or mild curries.

Garlic Rice – Add a crushed garlic clove to the pot before simmering for a gentle savoury note that pairs well with grilled meats and vegetables.

Butter Rice – Swap vegetable oil for butter to give the rice a richer flavour and smooth finish, ideal alongside roasted meats or fish.

Lemon Rice – Stir through lemon zest and a drizzle of olive oil after fluffing to add a clean, bright taste that complements Mediterranean dishes.

Storage and Shelf Life

Store the cooked rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it with a splash of water in the microwave or on the stove over low heat until steaming hot. For longer storage, freeze in small portions for up to 1 month.

Reheat from frozen with a little water, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Always discard any rice left at room temperature for more than 2 hours.

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How to Cook Long Grain Rice Recipe

Light, fluffy, and evenly cooked, this stovetop method shows How to Cook Long Grain Rice perfectly every time using simple ingredients and the traditional absorption technique for soft, separate grains.

Course: Rice

Cuisine: Asian

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Resting Time: 5 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Author: Manuela Zangara

Ingredients

• 2 ¾ cups water
• 1 ½ cups jasmine rice
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp vegetable oil

Instructions

1. Rinse the rice three times in cold water to remove excess starch. You can skip this step for a slightly stickier texture.
2. Place the washed rice in a pot. Add the water, salt, and oil. Stir to combine.
3. Bring the water to a boil. Cover the pot, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 15 minutes, or until all the water has been absorbed. Remove from the heat.
4. Keep the pot covered for 5 minutes to let the steam finish cooking the rice.
5. Fluff gently with a fork and serve.

Recipe Notes

• I don’t always rinse jasmine rice, as I sometimes prefer it slightly stickier for certain dishes.
• The measurements in this recipe are ideal for jasmine rice, but treat them as a guide. Always check the packet instructions since different brands may vary slightly.
• Basmati rice requires a different water ratio, though the same absorption method works perfectly for it too.

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