Jasmine Rice
Light, fluffy, and wonderfully fragrant steamed jasmine rice. This everyday staple cooks up with soft, slightly sticky grains that carry a subtle floral aroma, making it the perfect base for stir-fries, curries, and grilled dishes across Southeast Asian and fusion cuisines.
For 4 servings
- prep · ~2 min
Rinse the jasmine rice.
Place the rice in a fine mesh strainer and rinse under cold running water, gently swishing the grains with your fingers until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents gummy rice.
TIPRinsing until the water is completely clear is the secret to fluffy, separate grains. - boil · ~3 min
Bring rice and water to a boil.
In a medium heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, water, and salt. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat, uncovered.
- simmer · ~15 min
Simmer the rice until tender.
Once boiling, give the rice one quick stir, reduce the heat to the lowest setting, and cover with a tight-fitting lid. Simmer undisturbed for 12 to 15 minutes, or until all the water is absorbed and the grains are tender. You will see small steam holes on the surface when it is done.
TIPDo not lift the lid during cooking — the steam is essential for even cooking. - rest · ~5 min
Rest the rice off the heat.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 to 10 minutes. This allows the moisture to evenly distribute.
TIPA clean tea towel placed between the pot and lid during resting absorbs excess steam and keeps the rice fluffy. - mix · ~1 min
Fluff and serve the jasmine rice.
Remove the lid and gently fluff the rice with a fork or rice paddle to separate the grains. Transfer to a serving bowl.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Rinse until the water runs completely clear to remove surface starch and prevent clumping.
- 2Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan with a tight-fitting lid to ensure even heat distribution.
- 3Resist lifting the lid during simmering — the trapped steam is crucial for tender, fluffy grains.
- 4Let the rice rest off the heat for 5–10 minutes so moisture redistributes evenly.
- 5Place a clean tea towel under the lid during resting to absorb excess condensation.
- 6Fluff with a fork or rice paddle gently to separate grains without mashing them.
Adapt it for your goals.
Coconut jasmine rice
Replace half the water with canned coconut milk and add a pinch of sugar. This yields rich, lightly sweet rice that pairs beautifully with Thai curries or grilled chicken.
herbed jasmine riceHerbed jasmine rice
Add a pandan leaf (tied in a knot) or a few kaffir lime leaves to the pot before simmering for an even more floral, Southeast Asian aroma.
low sodiumLow-sodium
Omit the pinch of salt entirely; the rice will still be flavorful and is ideal for those watching their sodium intake.
garlic jasmine riceGarlic jasmine rice
Sauté 2 minced garlic cloves in a teaspoon of oil before adding the rice and water. This adds a savory depth perfect alongside grilled meats or vegetables.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Gluten-Free Grain
Jasmine rice is naturally gluten-free, making it a safe and versatile staple for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
Low in Fat
This recipe contains only a pinch of salt and no added fats, offering a lean carbohydrate base that fits easily into low-fat or heart-healthy meal plans.
Source of Quick Energy
The easily digestible carbohydrates in jasmine rice provide a rapid source of energy, ideal for refueling after exercise or as a pre-meal base.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, place the rice in a bowl, cover with cold water, swirl with your hand, then carefully pour off the cloudy water. Repeat 3–4 times until the water is mostly clear.
