A Simple Toasted Rice

A simple toasted rice

I learned this style of cooking rice from my adopted venezuelan abuela.

Ingredients

• 1 cup (185g) long-grain white rice
• 2 cups (475ml) water
• 2 tablespoon salt
• 1 tablespoon black pepper (optional)

Instructions

1. Heat the oil: In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

2. Toast the rice: Add the rice to the hot oil and cook, stirring frequently, for 2-3 minutes. The rice should become slightly translucent and fragrant.

3. Season and cook: Pour in the water, salt, and black pepper (if using). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover the pan slightly (leaving a small gap for steam to escape), and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and all the water has been absorbed.

4. Fluff and serve: Remove the pan from the heat and let the rice sit for 5 minutes with the lid on. This allows the rice to steam and become even fluffier. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.