Perfect White Rice

Directions

1. 1
   Bring 1 3/4 cups water and the salt to a rapid boil in a saucepan.
2. 2
   Stir the rice into the boiling water.
3. 3
   Return the mixture to a boil; reduce heat to a simmer.
4. 4
   Cover; cook without lifting the lid to prevent the steam from escaping until the rice is done (15 to 20 minutes; check toward the end of the cooking time).
5. 5
   The rice should be studded with steam holes when it is done.
6. 6
   Let stand, covered, for 5 to 10 minutes, then fluff the rice with a fork.
7. 7
   This recipe can be used to make basmati rice, too.
8. 8
   To cook brown rice, increase the amount of water to 2 1/4 cups and the cooking time to 30 to 40 minutes; check rice after 30 minutes.