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Rice is one of the most popular side dishes in the world, but cooking it so that it is truly fluffy, tender and tastes like it comes from a luxury hotel restaurant is not always easy. Many make the same mistake – they use only plain water and too much liquid. The result? Overcooked or, conversely, dry rice. Let’s look at the trick professional chefs use, and try it at home.
Why rice becomes overcooked or dry
The main reason is the incorrect ratio of water to rice and also frequent stirring during cooking. With excess liquid the rice absorbs too much starch and becomes sticky. Conversely, if you use too little water, it stays hard. Hotels and restaurants therefore use a proven technique that preserves the proper structure and flavor of the grains.
Secret trick: broth instead of water
Instead of plain water use a vegetable or chicken broth. It gives the rice a fuller taste and aroma, and also ensures that the finished dish won’t be bland. Just 1.5 parts liquid to 1 part rice and you’ll be sure it stays loose and perfectly cooked.
Recipe for perfectly fluffy rice
Ingredients:
- 1 part jasmine or basmati rice
- 1.5 parts hot broth (or water)
- 1 tablespoon butter or oil
- a pinch of salt
Method:
- Rinse the rice several times with cold water until the water runs clear – you’ll remove excess starch.
- Heat the butter or oil in a pot, add the rice and lightly toast it for a short time (1–2 minutes).
- Pour in the hot broth, add salt, and stir only at the beginning.
- Bring to a boil, reduce the heat to low, cover with a lid and cook for 12–15 minutes.
- Turn off the heat and let it rest under the lid for another 5–10 minutes.
Final professional tips
- Do not stir the rice during cooking – it will break apart and become sticky.
- Use a heavy-bottomed pot so it doesn’t burn.
- For larger quantities keep the ratio 1 : 1.5 and add only a little extra water.
Conclusion: How to cook rice like in a hotel
With this method you’ll get fluffy rice that will be delicious on its own and also a great side to meat, fish or vegetable dishes. It will never be overcooked or dry again. Try this trick at home and you’ll see that you’ll quickly forget ‘classic’ rice cooking.
