No need to be embarrassed! Cooking methods and appliances can vary, and it's always good to refresh your knowledge. Cooking rice on the stovetop is straightforward. Here's a simple method to cook white rice with boiling water:
Measure the desired amount of rice. A common ratio is 1 cup of rice to 2 cups of water, but you can adjust the quantities according to your preference and the specific type of rice you are using.
Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This step helps remove excess starch and improves the texture of the cooked rice.
In a saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, add the rinsed rice and the appropriate amount of water. For 1 cup of rice, add 2 cups of water. The ratio may vary slightly depending on the type of rice, so check the packaging instructions if available.
Place the saucepan on the stovetop over medium-high heat and bring the water to a boil. You can add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor, but it's optional.
Once the water reaches a rolling boil, reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan with the lid. This traps the steam inside and allows the rice to cook evenly.
Let the rice simmer on low heat for about 15-20 minutes. This duration may vary depending on the type of rice, so it's a good idea to check the specific instructions on the packaging.
After the cooking time has elapsed, turn off the heat and let the rice sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes. This allows the rice to steam and absorb any remaining moisture.
Finally, remove the lid and fluff the rice gently with a fork to separate the grains.
The above instructions are a general guideline for cooking white rice on the stovetop. Keep in mind that different types of rice might have slightly different cooking times and water ratios, so it's always a good idea to consult the specific instructions provided on the packaging of the rice you're using.