How to cook jasmine rice that’s soft and fluffy

Many people are used to making a perfect pot of white rice or brown rice, but not jasmine rice. Jasmine rice is a popular variety of long-grain rice that originates from Thailand and is widely used in Southeast Asian cuisine. This fragrant rice is known for its delicate, floral aroma and slightly sticky texture. Whether you are cooking for one or for a crowd, making a perfect pot of jasmine rice is simple and straightforward. 

How to store jasmine rice after purchasing it

Most supermarkets sell different types of rice so it will not be difficult to find jasmine rice. When you buy it, make sure to buy it in quantities that you can consume quickly as it loses its fragrance over time. To maintain that aroma, here’s what you can do:

• Use an air-tight container or a resealable bag to store the rice.
• Store the rice in a dry area that is also cool enough to keep it fresh.
• If you buy it in large quantities, you can freeze some of it in an airtight container until you’re eady to cook it.

How to prepare jasmine rice for cooking

Before you start cooking, it's important to rinse the rice thoroughly. This will remove any debris or dirt that may be in the rice and will also prevent the rice from becoming too sticky.

• Place the jasmine rice in a fine mesh strainer and rinse it under running water that’s cold for about 30 seconds. 
• Stir the rice gently with your hand as you rinse to ensure that all the grains are evenly exposed to the water.
• Don’t let your rice soak; it needs to drain well so that is won’t throw off the water ratio as you cook, and it won’t also come out too soft or mushy.

How to cook jasmine rice in rice cooker

You will notice that less water is lost when you cook jasmine rice in a rice cooker compared to cooking it on the stove. As a result, you use less water to cook jasmine rice in a rice cooker. Measure your rice and water with the ratio 1:1. Remember, the same cup you use to measure your rice is the same one you should use to measure the water.

After washing and draining your jasmine rice, put it into the rice cooker and add the water. Set your rice cooker to ‘white rice’ and let it cook for about 20 minutes. Thereafter, let the rice sit in the cooker for another 10 minutes without lifting or opening the lid. At this point, your jasmine rice will continue to absorb water. Opening the lid too soon may result in soft, wet rice. After 10 minutes, fluff your jasmine rice with a fork or rice paddle. This is to sepearate the grains so they don’t clump together. Your jasmine rice is ready to serve with a juicy spatchcock chicken and vegetables of choice. 

How to cook jasmine rice on a stovetop

Many wonder how to cook jasmine rice in a pot without getting it burnt. The secret? It’s simple really: 

1. Use the right type of pot or saucepan. A saucepan with a heavy bottom and tight-fitting lid works best for cooking jasmine rice as it will prevent the rice from burning and ensure even cooking.
2. Do not stir the rice while it is cooking. Stirring the rice will break up the grains and make the rice sticky.
3. Cooking time is the third key; adjust the cooking time as needed. If you prefer softer rice, you can add an additional 1/4 to 1/2 cup of water and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. If you prefer firmer rice, you can reduce the cooking time by 2-3 minutes.

Water ratio for jasmine rice on stovetop

When making perfect jasmine rice, the rice-to-water ratio is crucial. Use a rice-to-water ratio of 1:1.5, which is a good rule of thumb for cooking jasmine rice on the stove. For instance, 1.5 cups of water are required to cook 1 cup of rice.

Start by boiling the water in your pot or saucepan. Add the jasmine rice and bring the mixture back to a boil. Lower the heat to a medium-low, and cover the pot or saucepan with a tight-fitting lid. Leave the rice to cook for about 20 minutes. Turn off the heat and wait for 10 minutes before opening the lid. Fluff the rice and serve it whilst hot. It would go well with homemade roast lamb shanks or a juicy pork chop.

How to cook jasmine rice in microwave

Cooking jasmine rice in the microwave is quite simple and convenient. It will take less than 20 minutes. When cooking jasmine rice in the microwave, consider adding salt, oil, or some rosemary to add instant flavour to it.  Dried or fresh herbs will also work wonders to add a ton of flavour. 

Once you have rinsed your rice, place it in a microwaveable dish. Add water in the ratio 1:1.5 - that is 1 cup of rice to 1 and half cups of water.  Cook it for 5 minutes on high power, then lower to medium power and cook for another 10 minutes. Again, do not stir the rice during the cooking process. Once the cooking cycle has completed, let the rice rest in the microwave for 10 minutes. This allows it to finish steaming. Thereafter, fluff your rice and serve it immediately with a creamy beef stroganoff or a beef goulash.

How to store leftover rice

It is important to store leftover rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for 5 to 7 days. Make sure the rice has cooled down before you put the container in the fridge. You can also freeze leftover jasmine rice. Freezing will extend its shelf life up to a month. Try to portion the rice into smaller packs that you can reheat and eat at once without having to refreeze.

How to reheat leftover cooked jasmine rice

If the rice is frozen, there is no need to thaw it, especially if you are reheating it in the microwave. Add a splash of water to prevent it from drying out. One tablespoon per cup of rice will work well. Cover the rice or place a moist paper towel over the container to create a “steaming effect” as you microwave the rice. One minute on high heat should do the trick, but check the rice as frozen rice may take a bit longer. 

If you are reheating your jasmine rice on the stove, put it in a saucepan or skillet and add 1 tablespoon of water per cup of rice. Let it reheat over medium-low heat until all the rice is heated through. 

Difference Between Jasmine Rice and Basmati Rice

Jasmine rice and Basmati rice are two of the most popular types of rice in the world. Although they are both long-grain varieties, there are some key differences that set them apart. In this article, we will explore the differences between Jasmine rice and Basmati rice and help you choose the best one for your needs.

1. Origins and Characteristics: Jasmine rice is a type of long-grain rice that is originally from Thailand. It is characterized by its delicate floral aroma and slightly sticky texture when cooked. Basmati rice, on the other hand, is a long-grain rice that is primarily grown in India and Pakistan. It is known for its nutty aroma and fluffy texture.

In conclusion, while Jasmine rice and Basmati rice are both delicious and nutritious options, they differ in their origins, flavor, texture, cooking methods, and nutritional value. Choosing the right one depends on your personal preferences and the dish you plan to make. Now that you know the difference between Jasmine rice and Basmati rice, you can make an informed decision and enjoy the perfect rice for your meal.

How to serve jasmine rice

Here are a few of our favourite ways to serve jasmine rice. 

• Homemade chicken rice bowl recipe
  
• Rice Bowl with Poached Egg, Slow-Roasted Tomatoes, and Feta
  
• Thai mango sticky rice
• Easy rice and tuna bowl
• Classic Mexican Ground Beef Rice Casserole recipe