Small Side Of Rice Recipe

Rinse rice

Place 1/2 cup jasmine rice in a fine-mesh sieve and rinse under cold running water until the water runs mostly clear (about 30–45 seconds). This removes excess surface starch and prevents clumping.

Combine and bring to a simmer

In a small saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, 3/4 cup water, and 1/8 tsp kosher salt. Cover with a tight-fitting lid and bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Do not lift the lid while it heats.

Simmer gently

Once simmering, reduce heat to the lowest setting so the pot barely simmers. Maintain the covered pot and cook undisturbed for 12 minutes. Avoid stirring or removing the lid.

Steam off heat

After 12 minutes, remove the saucepan from the heat but keep it covered. Let the rice steam for an additional 8 minutes to finish cooking and absorb any remaining moisture.

Fluff and finish with butter

Remove the lid, add 1/2 tablespoon unsalted butter to the rice, and fluff gently with a fork to incorporate the butter and separate the grains.

If using, sprinkle 1 tsp chopped fresh cilantro over the fluffed rice, drizzle with 1/2 tsp fresh lime juice, and season with a pinch (about 1/8 tsp) freshly ground black pepper. Gently toss with a fork to distribute. Serve warm as a small side portion.