Steaming bowl of perfectly cooked rice
Cooking Masterclass

How to Cook
Perfect Rice Every Time

Updated Dec 22, 2024
6 min read
Agriko Kitchen

Cooking perfect rice isn't complicatedβ€”but it does require precision. Get the water ratio wrong or lift the lid too early, and you'll end up with a disaster.

At Agriko, we've perfected these techniques over years of cooking our own organic rice varieties. Whether you're using a pot, rice cooker, or Instant Pot, this guide will teach you the foolproof method for fluffy, distinct grains every single time.

Quick Reference Guide

Save this section for when you're in a hurry. These are the golden ratios and times you need to know.

Water Ratios

Whole Grain (Black/Brown/Red)1 : 2
White Rice1 : 1.5

Stovetop Cook Times

Brown Rice40-45 min
Red/Black Rice30-40 min
White Rice15-20 min

The Universal Method

This 5-step process works for all rice varieties on the stovetop. Just adjust the water and time based on your grain.

1
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse 2-3 times until water runs clear. This removes excess starch that causes gummy, sticky rice.
2
Combine & Boil
Add rice and water to pot. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat.
3
Simmer Covered
Reduce heat to lowest setting, cover with tight lid, and simmer. Do not lift the lid!
4
Rest Off Heat
Remove from heat and let stand covered for 10 minutes. This allows moisture to redistribute evenly.
5
Fluff & Serve
Gently fluff with a fork to separate grains. Serve immediately.

Choose Your Method

Stovetop isn't the only way. Here's how different appliances compare.

Rice Cooker

The "set it and forget it" option. Most consistent results.

EffortLow
ConsistencyExcellent

Instant Pot

Fastest method, especially for whole grains like brown rice.

EffortMedium
SpeedFastest

Stovetop

Best for control and flexibility. No special equipment needed.

EffortHigh
ControlBest

Common Mistakes

Avoid these pitfalls to ensure your rice turns out perfect every time.

Lifting the Lid

Releases steam and lowers temperature.

Fix: Trust the timer!

Eyeballing It

Guessing ratios leads to mushy or crunchy rice.

Fix: Use measuring cups.

High Heat

Burns the bottom while top stays raw.

Fix: Lowest simmer only.

Skipping Rest

Results in wet, unevenly cooked rice.

Fix: Wait 10 mins.

Pro Tips from Agriko

Toast the Rice

SautΓ© dry rice in a little oil or butter before adding water to bring out a nutty flavor.

Use Broth

Swap water for chicken or vegetable broth to instantly upgrade your rice to a side dish.

Add Aromatics

Throw in a bay leaf, star anise, or smashed garlic clove while cooking for subtle fragrance.

Batch Cook

Rice freezes perfectly. Cook a double batch and freeze portions for quick weeknight meals.