The Japanese are known for their unique and delicious way of cooking rice, and many home cooks around the world are eager to learn their secrets.
Here’s a clever trick to cook rice using just 2 ice cubes:
Step 1: Rinse the Rice First
To cook rice the Japanese way, start by rinsing the rice to clean it. Then, add the right amount of water before turning on the heat. The ideal rice-to-water ratio is usually around 1:1.2, but this may vary depending on the type of rice, so it’s best to rely on your experience.
Adding 2 to 3 ice cubes will delay the rice’s absorption of water. Leave the rice with the ice cubes for about 15 minutes before turning on the cooker and starting the cooking process.
This is one of the tricks that the Japanese use to make their rice fragrant and sticky. The magic happens when the rice is cooked, resulting in perfectly fluffy, tasty, and nutritious rice.
Step 2: Measure the Water Level Precisely
After cleaning the rice, it’s time to add water. Use your index finger to measure the water level traditionally. Place your finger on the rice, ensuring it barely touches the rice and doesn’t sink to the bottom of the pot. The water level should reach the first knuckle for perfectly cooked rice that’s neither too dry nor mushy. Alternatively, you can use your entire hand; the water level should just about cover your hand. Gently rest your hand on the rice’s surface when measuring.
Step 3: Add a Few Ice Cubes Before Cooking
After soaking the rice, add a few small ice cubes and let them sit for about 15 minutes before cooking as usual. Ice cubes slow down the rice’s water absorption rate, resulting in stickier and tastier rice.
Additionally, the ice increases the amino acid content and prevents the enzymatic breakdown of the rice’s natural sugars, preserving its fragrance and enhancing its flavor.
Step 4: Fluff the Rice When It’s Done
As soon as the rice is ready, open the lid and gently fluff it with chopsticks. Let it rest for about a minute to release excess steam, then cover it again for another 10 minutes to finish.