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This easy step-by-step guide will walk you through how to cook rice on your stovetop if you don't have an electric rice cooker.

How to Cook Rice Without a Rice Cooker

Char
No rice cooker? No problem! This easy step-by-step guide will walk you through how to cook rice without a rice cooker. No timer needed either! Perfect, fluffy rice every time. 
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Cuisine Asian
Servings 4 servings

Ingredients
 
 

  • 2 cups rice uncooked
  • 3 cups water plus more for rinsing
US Customary - Metric

Instructions
 

Stovetop Method

  • Rinse 2 cups of uncooked rice under cold water until the water runs mostly clear.
  • Drain the water, then repeat the rinsing process 3–4 times until the water is less cloudy.
  • Add 3 cups of fresh water to the rinsed rice. Optional method: Place your fingertip just touching the surface of the rice. The water level should reach the first crease of your finger.
  • Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring to a boil uncovered.
  • Once most of the water has been absorbed and small craters form on the rice surface, cover the pot with a lid.
  • Let it boil for 10–20 seconds with the lid on, then turn off the heat. Leave the lid on to steam the rice. No peeking!
  • After about 15 minutes, fluff the rice with chopsticks or a rice paddle.

Wok Steaming Method

  • Rinse 2 cups of uncooked rice under cold water until the water runs mostly clear. Drain well.
  • Transfer the rinsed rice to a heatproof bowl that fits comfortably inside your wok.
  • Add 3 cups of water to the bowl.
  • Place a steaming rack or trivet in your wok, then pour about 2 inches of water into the bottom of the wok.
  • Set the bowl of rice on the rack. You don’t need to cover the bowl. Just cover the wok with a tight-fitting lid.
  • Bring the wok water to a gentle boil over high heat, then reduce to low to maintain a steady simmer.
  • Steam the rice for 25–30 minutes. Top up the wok with water if needed.
  • Turn off the heat and let the rice rest (still covered) for 5 minutes.
  • Fluff the rice with chopsticks or a rice paddle before serving.

Notes

The stovetop method is perfect if you have a sturdy pot with a tight-fitting lid.
The wok steaming method is ideal if you don’t have a suitable pot or if your pot doesn’t have a proper lid. It’s also handy if you’re already using your wok to steam other dishes; just cook the rice before or after.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 103kcalCarbohydrates: 22gProtein: 2gSodium: 8mg
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