Do you love rice, but when you cook it in a pan it always ends up sticking? Don’t worry, we have the solution for you! We show you how to prevent your rice from sticking to the bottom of the pan or saucepan, and learn to master the art of rice cooking by following the advice of Monisha Bharadwaj, a famous Indian chef.
How to prevent rice from sticking?
Most people think that cooking rice in boiling water and draining it is enough to cook it properly. Top chefs debunk this myth and share some of their culinary secrets.
Indian celebrity chef Monisha Bharadwaj reveals the steps to follow to ensure that rice doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan or saucepan in which you prepare it.
The absorption method
According to the expert, housewives should use the absorption method so that the rice is well cooked and has a fine and fluffy texture.
“I prepare rice using the absorption method. Take one measure of rice and double the volume of water. The result is perfect,” said the expert.
Depending on the number of servings you want to prepare, it is advisable to measure the amount of rice and water in separate containers. In addition, once the correct quantities have been obtained, the rice should be rinsed well with water, in a strainer, until the water is clear. (You can “wash” it 3 or 4 times.)
The right pan
Another tip the Indian chef gives us is to choose “a pan with a heavy bottom and a well-secured lid” so that the steam stays inside.
“Steam is what will cook the rice. The rice will absorb all the liquid. Mix the washed rice and water in the pan and increase the heat. When the rice reaches boiling point, stir it well. Then lower the heat and cover the pan,” added the culinary expert.
Another important element is to let the rice cook, without opening the lid too much.
After 10 minutes, turn off the heat and let it rest for another five minutes, then serve. This way the rice will be soft, with the grains separated and not sticking together.
Why does rice stick to the bottom of the pan ?
The main cause of rice sticking to the pan is overcooking. If rice is cooked for too long, the starches in the grains will begin to break down and become sticky.
Another factor that contributes to rice sticking to the pan is the type of cookware used. Non-stick pans are ideal for cooking rice because they have a smooth surface that prevents the rice from sticking.
What to do with overcooked rice ?
Soup
Rice in soup is always overcooked, as the soup is reheated and therefore the rice is cooked further. Soups that work best for adding overcooked rice include, for example, chicken and sweet and sour sauce.
baby food
Cooked rice is ideal for babies because it is much easier to chew. Serve it as is or mix it with pureed vegetables or fruit.
Rice pudding
If you have a sweet tooth, turn overcooked rice into rice pudding by adding milk, cinnamon, sugar, raisins and vanilla extract and mix well. Serve hot!
Fried rice
Frying foods naturally makes them crispier. Put your cooked rice in a saucepan with a little olive oil and cook over medium heat. Add your favorite vegetables, an egg, and soy sauce.
