How to Keep Rice from Getting Sticky: Simple Hacks for Perfectly Fluffy Grains

Rice is a staple for so many meals, but cooking it perfectly can seem like an enigma.

Have you ever cooked a pot of rice, only to find it clumped together in a sticky mess?

The art of cooking rice, and discovering how to keep rice from getting sticky, can bring you back to the session kitchen with a lot more ease.

This article explores reliable processes which can yield perfectly separated grains each time.

All of your fried rice, sushi, and pretty much any side will benefit from these tips to make sure the rice is light, fluffy and tender.

Ready to master rice like a pro? Let’s get started!

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How to Keep Rice from Getting Sticky

Sticky rice is due to multiple reasons: either from the type of rice you are using or how you are cooking it.

Let’s break down the key factors to help you prevent this issue and enjoy perfectly cooked rice every time.

Choose the Right Type of Rice

by mrsgordon

Not all rice varieties are created equal.

Long-grain rice, such as basmati or jasmine, naturally stays less sticky due to its lower starch content.

Short-grain and medium-grain rice, often used for sushi, are more prone to stickiness because they release more starch when cooked.

Use a long grain rice if you want fluffy, non-sticky rice.

Rinse Your Rice Thoroughly

Rinsing is a crucial step that many skip.

Rice contains surface starch that can make it sticky during cooking.

Place your rice in a fine-mesh sieve or bowl and rinse it under cold water until the water runs clear.

by neveruseuntil

This simple step washes away excess starch and is essential for achieving those perfectly separate grains.

Use the Correct Water-to-Rice Ratio

Too much water can make rice mushy and sticky.

The general rule for most long-grain rice is one part rice to two parts water, but always check the package instructions for the specific variety you’re using.

Using too little water, on the other hand, can leave the rice undercooked and clumped.

Don’t Stir While Cooking

by 0taterfry0

It’s tempting to stir the rice while it’s cooking, but resist the urge.

Stirring activates the starch, making the rice stickier.

Instead, allow the rice to cook undisturbed, and use a fork to fluff it gently after it’s done.

Add Oil or Butter

A small amount of oil or butter can help keep the grains separate.

Add a teaspoon to the cooking water before bringing it to a boil.

This adds a subtle richness and ensures the grains stay loose.

Let the Rice Rest

by YoknapatawphaKid

Once your rice is done cooking, don’t skip the resting stage.

Allow the pot to sit, covered, for about 5–10 minutes.

This helps any remaining steam to finish cooking the rice while preventing stickiness.

What to Do If Your Rice Is Already Sticky

Sometimes, even with the best efforts, rice can still end up sticky.

Here are a few quick fixes to salvage it:

Rinse with hot water: Place the sticky rice in a colander and rinse it under hot water while using a fork to break up the lumps.
Spread it out: Lay the rice on a baking sheet and fluff it with a fork. Let it cool to allow the grains to separate.
Turn it into fried rice: Sticky rice works well for fried rice, because the 2nd cooking will separate the grains, just puffs them up a bit.

How to Store Rice to Prevent Stickiness

by sayaxat

To ensure a nice texture, the rice needs to be stored appropriately.

Store cooked rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.

To reheat, sprinkle a little water over the rice and microwave it in a covered dish to restore its fluffy texture.

Additional Tips

Avoid freezing freshly cooked rice: Тhis can change the texture, and when it is defrosted, it becomes mushy.
Reheat on the stovetop: Adding a splash of water and heating gently in a pan will yield better results than the microwave.