Cooked White Rice
Global • Vegan
How to Make Cooked White Rice (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Cooked white rice, known as 'chawal' in Hindi, is a staple across Indian households and globally cherished for its simplicity and versatility. This humble grain has graced Indian thalis from the lush fields of Punjab to the coastal kitchens of Kerala. Its light, fluffy texture makes it the perfect base for dals, curries, and a variety of snacks. White rice is comfort food at its finest—mild in flavor, easily digestible, and quick to prepare, making it a go-to option for busy days and celebratory feasts alike. In Indian culture, cooked white rice is more than just food—it's an emotion. Traditionally served during festivals, family gatherings, and everyday meals, it symbolizes prosperity and hospitality. Its neutral taste allows it to pair beautifully with both spicy and subtle dishes. When prepared with care, white rice can be light and non-sticky, offering a satisfying mouthfeel. For those tracking calories or aiming for balanced nutrition, this recipe incorporates mindful cooking methods to keep your meal both wholesome and delicious. Enjoy this global favorite as a healthy Indian snack or as part of a main meal, and bring the essence of Indian kitchens to your table.
Ingredients(for 1 katori (bowl) cooked rice)
- 1 cup Raw white rice (preferably basmati or sona masoori)
- 2 cups Water (filtered)
- 1/4 tsp Salt (optional, to taste) - optional
- 1/2 tsp Ghee (optional, for aroma) - optional
- 1 small Bay leaf (tej patta, optional for subtle flavor) - optional
- 1/2 tsp Lemon juice (optional, prevents stickiness) - optional
- 2 tbsp Green peas (optional for added nutrition) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Measure 1 cup of raw white rice. Rinse the rice thoroughly under running water 2-3 times to remove excess starch. This helps prevent stickiness.
5 minutes
Soaking rice for 10 minutes makes grains fluffier.
- 2
Soak the rinsed rice in water for 10 minutes. This step is optional but recommended for even cooking.
10 minutes
Soaked rice cooks faster and more evenly.
- 3
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan or pressure cooker, add 2 cups of water. Optionally, add a bay leaf for aroma and a pinch of salt.
2 minutes
Bay leaf gives a subtle fragrance to the rice.
- 4
Drain the soaked rice and add it to the boiling water. Stir gently to avoid breaking the grains.
1 minute
Do not over-stir as rice grains can break easily.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This healthy white rice recipe uses minimal oil and optional ghee, making it lower in saturated fat. By rinsing and soaking, excess starch is removed, aiding digestion and managing calorie intake. Including peas or vegetables increases fiber and micronutrients, making the dish more filling and balanced for weight management and healthy snacking.
White rice is a good source of easily digestible carbohydrates, offering quick energy. It contains small amounts of protein and negligible fat. While lower in fiber than brown rice, it provides essential B vitamins (thiamine, niacin), iron, and manganese. Adding green peas boosts fiber, vitamins, and plant-based protein. For those with gluten intolerance, rice is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for most diets.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Rinse rice thoroughly to remove excess starch for fluffier grains.
- 💡Tip 2: Let rice rest covered after cooking for perfect texture.
- 💡Tip 3: Add a few drops of lemon juice to keep rice white and non-sticky.
- 💡Tip 4: Use a heavy-bottomed pan to prevent burning.
- 💡Tip 5: For meal prep, store cooked rice in an airtight container in the fridge.
Storage & Serving
Keeps for 6-8 hours at room temperature. Refrigerate for up to 2 days.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 206.0 kcal |
