Cooking Perfect Rice

Rice is easy to cook, and is the basis for many a vegetarian meal.

Helpful Hints For Perfect Rice:

4 cups cooked rice, 4 - 6 servings

1. We use long grain basmati rice, and these proportions work for that. Different types of rice will need more or less water. Shorter grains usually need a bit less, longer grains more.

2. For brown rice, rinse, then soak it for 1 - 4 hours, cook it in the soaking water, and increase the cooking time to 45 minutes.

3. Short grain rice is sweeter and stickier. Use slightly less water. If your rice is too sticky and soft, use less water next time, or switch to a long grain variety

4. If your rice is undercooked, but all the water is gone, add a few Tbsp more water, cover, and simmer for 5 - 10 more minutes.

To Cook Rice, You'll Need:

• 1 cup rice
• 1 3/4 cups water
• 2 c. water for brown rice
• 1/2 - 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp oil
• 1 sturdy 2 quart pot with a tight fitting lid, essential for even cooking

Directions:

1. If using brown rice, set aside to soak for 1 - 4 hours
2. Rinse the rice in a colander until the rinse water is clear
3. Drain completely and place in the pot with the water, salt and oil
4. Cover with tight fitting lid and bring to a boil
5. Turn burner to very low or simmer and cook for 1- 15 minutes
6. For brown rice: turn burner to very low or simmer and cook for 40 - 45 minutes
7. Remove from heat and let sit 5 minutes with lid on
8. Fluff gently with a fork and serve

Good Things To Eat With Rice

• Combine any of these suggestions as the spirit moves you
• Cook with a few thinly sliced carrots, celery or green beans
• Add frozen peas at the end
• Add some olive oil and herbs or spices
• For lacto veggies, add some butter & parmesan cheese
• Incorporate veg sausage pieces, fried tofu pieces, seitan or tempeh
• Serve with soups or stews
• Sprinkle with soy sauce or braggs
• Add a few toasted pine nuts or sesame seeds
• Make rice pudding with left over rice
• Add some mashed tofu, herbs and spices, make into patties and fry
• Fry with some oil and tomato sauce, wrap in a burrito with some refried beans, guacamole or salsa