This easy stovetop white rice recipe is a simple, reliable method for making fluffy, perfectly cooked rice every time. With the right water ratio and a little patience, you’ll have a comforting side dish that pairs beautifully with just about any meal.
In a medium saucepan (stainless steel is my fave), combine the water, salt, and butter. Bring to a rolling boil over medium-high heat.
Rinse the rice in a bowl with cold water, gently swirling and draining until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and cleans the rice grains.
Upon water coming to boil, stir in the rinsed rice. Once the water returns to a boil, reduce heat to a simmer, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and cook for 12 minutes without lifting the lid. This step is super important. Do not touch the lid, do not stir the rice, let it simmer untouched. Check after 12 minutes.
After 12 minutes, check your rice, turn off the heat, and return the lid back on top of the pot. Allow the rice to steam for 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, take a fork, fluff gently and serve warm. Enjoy!