Ingredients:
• 1 cup long-grain rice (basmati or jasmine for a fragrant flavor)
• 1.5 cups water (adjust to your type of rice)
• 1 tablespoon butter or oil
• Salt to taste (about 1/2 teaspoon)
• Optional: bay leaf, cinnamon stick, or cardamom pod for aroma
Instructions:
1. Rinse the Rice: Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents clumping.
2. Soak the Rice (Optional): Soak the rice in water for 15-20 minutes. This step gives fluffier rice.
3. Sauté the Rice: In a pot, heat the butter or oil over medium heat. Add the rice and stir gently for 1-2 minutes until it’s slightly toasted. This adds flavor and keeps the grains separate.
4. Add Water and Seasoning: Pour in the water, add salt, and any optional aromatics like a bay leaf, cinnamon stick, or cardamom pod for a hotel-style fragrance.
5. Cook the Rice: Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and let it simmer undisturbed for 15-18 minutes (adjust time based on the rice variety).
6. Rest the Rice: Once cooked, remove the pot from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5-10 minutes. This step helps the rice absorb any remaining steam.
7. Fluff and Serve: Use a fork to fluff the rice gently, releasing any remaining steam and separating the grains.
Extra Tips:
• For extra flavor, substitute water with vegetable or chicken broth.
• To get a slight “butter glaze” finish, add a little melted butter on top before serving.
Enjoy your fluffy, hotel-style rice!