Rice

For many beginners, the most mystifying of cooking preparations is cooking rice properly. It is not difficult. Here is a virtually foolproof recipe for creating fine cooked rice, which can accompany many, if not most, of the dishes in this book.

Use extra-long-grain rice, preferably Texas-grown. Place it in a pot with cold water and wash it 3 times. As you wash it, rub it between your hands. Drain well after washing. Then add water and allow the rice to sit 2 hours before cooking. A