Name: Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: PT-485205H39M20S
Total time: PT-485205H39M20S
Yield: undefined
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 1 cup Thai Jasmine rice; 1 1/2 cups water (or 1 1/4 cups water for firmer rice); 1/2 teaspoon salt (optional); 1 tablespoon coconut oil or butter (optional for extra flavor)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the fragrance of freshly cooked Jasmine rice filling your kitchen. With its soft, slightly sticky texture, Jasmine rice makes a wonderful base for curries, stir-fries, and many other dishes. It’s easy to cook and, when prepared properly, is light, fluffy, and perfectly cooked every time. This recipe ensures that you get the best results—whether you’re using it as a side dish or as a main component of a Thai-inspired meal. The subtle floral aroma of the rice makes it a perfect complement to a wide range of dishes.

Ingredients

1 cup Thai Jasmine rice
1 1/2 cups water (or 1 1/4 cups water for firmer rice)
1/2 teaspoon salt (optional)
1 tablespoon coconut oil or butter (optional for extra flavor)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Rinse the rice: Place the Jasmine rice in a fine-mesh sieve or bowl and rinse it under cold water for 1-2 minutes. Gently rub the rice with your fingers to remove excess starch. Rinsing helps prevent the rice from becoming too sticky and ensures a fluffy texture.
Soak the rice (optional): Soaking the rice for 20-30 minutes before cooking can help achieve a softer, fluffier texture, but this step is optional.
Combine rice and water: In a medium-sized saucepan, add the rinsed rice, water, and salt (if using). Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
Simmer the rice: Once it starts to boil, reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan with a lid. Let the rice simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until all the water has been absorbed and the rice is tender.
Let the rice rest: Remove the saucepan from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5-10 minutes. This step allows the rice to firm up and become even fluffier.
Fluff the rice: After the resting period, use a fork to gently fluff the rice, separating the grains. If you’d like to add some flavor, stir in a tablespoon of coconut oil or butter.
Serve: Serve the Jasmine rice hot with your favorite Thai or Asian-inspired dishes.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 2-4
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 15-18 minutes
Resting time: 5-10 minutes
Total time: 30-35 minutes

Variations

Coconut Jasmine rice: For a richer flavor, replace the water with coconut milk and add a pinch of salt for a fragrant, tropical twist.
Garlic Jasmine rice: Add a couple of minced garlic cloves and a small piece of ginger to the rice before cooking for an aromatic, savory version.
Turmeric Jasmine rice: For a colorful and flavorful variation, add a pinch of ground turmeric to the rice while cooking.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover cooked Jasmine rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure to cool the rice completely before refrigerating.
Reheating: Reheat rice in the microwave with a splash of water to restore moisture, or reheat it in a saucepan over low heat with a little added water. Fluff it again before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use a rice cooker to make Thai Jasmine rice?

Yes, you can use a rice cooker to make Jasmine rice. Use the same ratio of 1 cup rice to 1 1/2 cups water (or a bit less for firmer rice). Follow the rice cooker’s instructions for cooking.

2. Why is it important to rinse the rice?

Rinsing the rice removes excess starch, which helps prevent it from becoming too sticky and allows the grains to remain separate when cooked.

3. Can I use Jasmine rice for sushi?

Jasmine rice is not the best choice for sushi. Sushi rice has a different texture and starch content, so it’s better to use short-grain or sushi rice for that purpose.

4. Is Jasmine rice gluten-free?

Yes, Jasmine rice is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for anyone following a gluten-free diet.

5. Can I use brown Jasmine rice instead of white Jasmine rice?

Yes, you can use brown Jasmine rice, but it will take longer to cook. Brown rice typically requires about 40-45 minutes to cook and a little more water than white rice.

6. How can I make Jasmine rice firmer?

If you prefer firmer rice, reduce the amount of water to 1 1/4 cups for every 1 cup of rice.

7. Can I freeze leftover Jasmine rice?

Yes, you can freeze leftover rice. Let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

8. How do I get the rice to have that signature fragrance?

Jasmine rice naturally has a distinct floral aroma. To enhance the fragrance, make sure to rinse the rice well, and add a small amount of coconut oil or butter after cooking for an added richness.

9. Can I make this rice in advance?

Yes, you can prepare Jasmine rice ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just make sure to reheat it properly with a little water to prevent it from drying out.

10. Can I use other types of rice in this recipe?

This recipe is specifically for Jasmine rice, which has a unique texture and aroma. If you’re using a different type of rice, such as basmati or long-grain white rice, the cooking method and water ratio may vary.

Conclusion

Fluffy Thai Jasmine rice is the perfect side dish to elevate any meal, from a comforting curry to a flavorful stir-fry. With its delicate aroma and soft, fluffy texture, it complements a wide variety of dishes and is easy to prepare. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned chef, this simple recipe will help you achieve perfectly cooked rice every time. Give it a try, and enjoy the wonderful aroma and flavor of homemade Thai Jasmine rice!