Easy Stovetop Jasmine Rice

Learn how to cook jasmine rice on the stovetop for fluffy, tender rice every time. This easy jasmine rice recipe uses a simple soak, gentle simmer, and covered rest for perfectly cooked rice with separate, fluffy grains.

Cook Time

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Prep Time

20 Minutes

Ingredients

Rinse the Rice
Place the jasmine rice in a fine-mesh strainer and rinse under cold running water until the water runs clear. Drain well.
Soak the Rice
Add the rinsed rice and 1½ cups water to a medium saucepan. Let the rice soak uncovered for 15 minutes.
Bring to a Boil
Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the rice and water to a boil uncovered.
Cover and Cook
As soon as it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to medium-low and put the lid on. Cook for about 15 minutes, or until the water has been absorbed.
Rest the Rice
Remove the saucepan from the burner and let the rice rest covered for 15 minutes. Do not remove the lid during cooking or resting—keeping that steam trapped is what helps the rice cook properly and stay fluffy.
Fluff and Serve
After the full 15-minute rest, remove the lid and gently fluff the jasmine rice with a fork. Serve warm with your favorite meal.

RECIPE TIPS

Don’t lift the lid! Once the rice reaches a boil and the lid goes on, leave it covered through the entire cooking time and the 15-minute rest. Trapping the steam is the secret to fluffy jasmine rice.
For buttery garlic jasmine rice: After the rice has finished its 15-minute covered rest, add 2 TBSP butter and 1 tsp garlic salt, then gently fluff everything together with a fork. It’s amazing with chicken, beef, stir-fries, or vegetables. 🍚❤️

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to rinse jasmine rice before cooking it?

Yes. Rinsing the jasmine rice in a fine-mesh strainer until the water runs clear removes excess surface starch and helps the finished rice stay fluffy instead of overly sticky.
Why do you soak jasmine rice before cooking it?

The 15-minute soak allows the grains to begin absorbing water before cooking, helping the rice cook evenly and giving it a tender, fluffy texture.
Why shouldn’t I lift the lid while jasmine rice is cooking?

Once the lid goes on, it traps the steam needed to cook the rice evenly. Lifting it releases that steam and can affect the texture. Keep the lid on during both the 15-minute cook and 15-minute rest.
What is the water-to-rice ratio for stovetop jasmine rice?

For this recipe, use 1½ cups water for every 1 cup jasmine rice. This ratio produces tender, fluffy grains using this soaking and stovetop cooking method.
How can I add more flavor to jasmine rice?

After the rice has finished its covered rest, add 2 tablespoons butter and 1 teaspoon garlic salt, then gently fluff with a fork. It makes an easy buttery garlic jasmine rice that pairs well with chicken, beef, vegetables, and stir-fries.