Cooking rice may seem like the simplest task in the kitchen, but not everyone can cook a pot of soft, fragrant, 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, less likely to become mushy, and doubled nutrition compared to the usual cooking method.

Why does adding ice to 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 not only cools the water but also makes the rice grains contract slightly before expanding evenly when exposed to high heat. As a result:

  • Rice grains expand evenly, becoming soft and fluffy without being mushy or sticky.
  • The natural sweetness of the rice, especially white rice and fragrant rice, is retained.
  • There is less loss of vitamin B and minerals during the cooking process.
  • The rice stays warm for longer, making it ideal for families who cook in the morning and eat at noon.
Adding an ice cube to the rice cooker results in softer, more nutritious rice

An incredibly simple method

Just follow these three simple steps:

  • Rinse the rice as usual and add the appropriate amount of water for cooking.
  • Before turning on the cooker, drop a small ice cube (about 2-3 cm) into the center of the pot.
  • Close the lid and cook the rice as usual. When the rice is done, open the lid and find perfectly cooked, fluffy rice with a delightful aroma.

A few notes:

  • Use clean ice made from boiled and cooled water to ensure hygiene.
  • Avoid using too large or too many ice cubes, as it may affect the water quantity and cooking time.

Nutrition is “locked in” thanks to 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 slowly melts, the water heats up gradually, reducing the loss of nutrients that occurs when boiling water or using a pressure cooker.

Additionally, if using brown rice, black rice, or other unrefined rice, 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 not only improves the texture and taste of the rice but also maximizes its nutritional value. Try this simple kitchen secret today and enjoy healthier and more delicious meals!

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