To cook rice in a rice cooker, follow these steps for consistent, fluffy rice:
- Measure the rice using the rice cooker’s measuring cup.
- Rinse the rice under cold running water 2-3 times until the water runs clear, then drain.
- Add water to the rice in the cooker pot using a 1:1 ratio of water to rice for most types, or follow the water markings inside the rice cooker pot.
- Place the pot in the rice cooker and close the lid. Turn the cooker on and select the appropriate setting if available (e.g., normal or quick cook).
- Do not open the lid while the rice is cooking to keep steam inside.
- When the cooker signals that rice is done, let it rest with the lid closed for about 5-10 minutes.
- Finally, fluff the rice with a rice paddle before serving.
Optional soaking for about 20-30 minutes before cooking can improve texture, especially for Japanese short-grain rice. Different rice varieties might require slight water ratio adjustments, so refer to your rice cooker manual for specifics if needed.