In my experience, many people have trouble cooking rice. It’s a dish that seems so simple but can baffle the most adept cook. Follow this straightforward recipe and success will be yours.

Ingredients

　　1 cup jasmine rice

　　2 cups water

　　1 1/2 teaspoons sea salt

　　Unsalted butter (optional)

　　Rinse the rice in a colander until the water runs clear to remove some of the starch. Let the rice drain. Put the rice, water, and salt in a medium pot and place over medium heat. When the water begins to boil, stir it once; then cover tightly and lower the heat. Simmer the rice for 15 minutes without lifting the lid—it is wise to set a timer. After 15 minutes take the cover off to check the rice. The water should be absorbed and the rice cooked but firm. Fluff the cooked grains with a fork so they separate. Do not stir it with a spoon or the rice will become gummy. Add a little butter if you like.

　　Reprinted with permission from Tyler Florence's Real Kitchen by Tyler Florence. © 2003 Clarkson Potter