Cooking rice may seem like the simplest task in the kitchen, but not everyone can cook a pot of soft, fluffy, and delicious rice. Surprisingly, there’s a trick: just drop an ice cube into the rice cooker before cooking, and you’ll get unexpected results: softer rice that’s less likely to get mushy, and it doubles the amount of nutrition compared to the usual cooking method.
Why does dropping an ice cube into the rice cooker work?
This may sound strange, but it’s a rice-cooking trick that many Japanese and Korean chefs have used for a long time. The ice cube doesn’t just cool the water; it also makes the rice grains contract slightly before expanding evenly when exposed to high heat. As a result:
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Rice grains expand evenly, becoming soft and fluffy without turning mushy or sticky.
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Retains the natural sweetness of the rice, especially for long-grain and fragrant rice varieties.
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Minimizes the loss of vitamin B and minerals during the cooking process.
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Keeps the rice fresh for longer, which is ideal for families who cook in the morning and eat at lunchtime.
An incredibly simple method
Just follow these three simple steps:
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Rinse the rice as usual and add the appropriate amount of water for cooking.
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Before turning on the rice cooker, drop a small ice cube (about 2-3 cm) into the center of the pot.
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Close the lid and cook the rice as you normally would. When the rice is done, open the lid and behold the perfectly cooked, fluffy rice with a delightful aroma.
A few notes:
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Use clean ice made from boiled and cooled water to ensure hygiene.
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Avoid using too large or too many ice cubes, as it may affect the water ratio and cooking time.
Nutrition locked in by the ice cube
According to nutrition experts, cooking rice from cold water helps retain more water-soluble vitamins, especially vitamin B1, B2, and trace minerals in the rice. As the ice cube slowly melts, the water heats up gradually, reducing nutrient loss compared to rapid boiling with hot water or a pressure cooker.
Additionally, if you’re using brown rice, black rice, or other unrefined rice varieties, this trick helps soften the grains and make them easier to digest without the need for prolonged soaking.
A small ice cube can make a big difference in your family’s meal. It enhances the texture and flavor of the rice while maximizing its nutritional value. Try this simple kitchen secret today and enjoy healthier and more delicious meals!
