I have decided to start my blog with cooking instructions. What I often asked by my international friends is how to cook Japanese rice, so hope this helps you a little. I will talk about as much details as possible so that I can clear concerns that those who are new to this could have, but if you have any questions, please feel free to ask me!
Firstly, before I begin, I would like say cooking rice is pretty simple": What you need is just rice and water! You do not even need a rice cooker!!! Although there are a number of methods and what is the "proper/best" way to cook Japanese rice is controversial even in Japan, I think we should take it easy. I am sure there are lots of people who want to try but have not cooked yet just because that is unfamiliar to you. I know what it is like since I have not cooked couscous yet for that reason. However, at least regarding Japanese rice it is pretty simple to cook!
Also I would like to mention that rice is healthier than other carbs. For example, bred contains butter and salt and you often even spread another butter or jam, whereas you cook rice only with water. Also you get some water from steamed rice, which helps digestive systems. It would be even better when you cook brown rice. Personally I do not cut carbs because I feel I need it, but I always try to choose good ones. So here is my procedures...
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What You Need:
1. Japanese rice
Akitakomachi is my favourite brand. Sasanishiki and Koshihikari is also recommended. Also in Japan I think the brand called "Milky Way" is popular especially among younger people. If you live in outside Japan, you can try any sticky (Japanese) rice or short grain rice though I do not cook Thai rice since that tastes and smells differently. Japanese rice is sweeter, and sticky obviously.
A half cup of uncooked rice should be for one person. I always cook 2-3 cups of rice at a time, and freeze some rest as individual pieces of each portion. Ideally rice should be cooked every time you eat for the best taste and flavour, but I think it is also important for you to use your time wisely. You ltsaucan microwave for a few minutes and I would say it is still really good!
2. Water
You need 1.3-1.5 cup of water per one cup of rice. Brown rice requires more water, I would say 1.8 cup of water.
3. Others
Some people put a pinch of salt. My grandmother from my dad add a spoon of Japanese sake. However, personally I like to cook with just water when I cook white rice. I often put a little salt when I cook brown rice.
Directions:
1. Rinse your rice
Get a saucepan with a lid, and put your dried rice in it. Put cold water until the rice is covered and stir the rise gently by using your hand. You should drain the water a few times until the water is clear but 2-3 times of changes should be enough and it does not have to be "perfectly clear".
2. Soak for 30 mins
Put water according to the amount of your rice and leave it for 30 minutes. I found this an important step since this makes rice fluffy and sticky.
3. Boil and simmer your rice
Set the saucepan uncovered on the hob. Boil your rice with the highest heat possible. Once it is boiled, then lower the heat as much as you can and put the lid on. Simmer the rice for 10-12 minutes. One very important point: do not take off the lid, do not stir the rice and just leave it for at least 10 minutes.
4. Leave for 10 mins
Check your rice and see if it is cooked. You might find small holes on the surface of the rice when it is well cooked. If it is still watery, cook for another a couple of minutes, but please make sure that it will not be overcooked. You might need to cook longer for brown rice. Once it is done, remove the saucepan from the heat, fluff the rice gently but quickly with a rice scooper or spoon a couple of times from the bottom, and let it sit with the lid on for 10 minutes. This helps rice absorb the water and you will get the best texture.
5. Serve
Enjoy!!!
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In addition to the simple cooking procedures, a good thing about rice is that it is inexpensive. Some of you might think Japanese food is costly in Europe or America, but if you get 5kg of rice, it lasts for ages. Currently I live in the UK and I think rice is cheaper than bread or pasta.
When I started livig in the UK, I had tried to eat more bread and pasta since I wanted to experience British food culture, but at a certain point I came back to rice for all those benefits I mentioned in this post. YES, rice is soooo good!!!
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