Soaking and Draining

I recommend soaking rice (especially basmati) before cooking it as it shortens the cooking time and keeps each grain separate and fluffy. Soaking also makes the rice grains less likely to stick together. I recommend soaking for at least 20 minutes, but recipes vary, and some dishes only need washing and rinsing. To soak the rice, place it in a large bowl and cover with cold water, set aside. For cooking everyday rice (long-grain rice) by the absorption method, soak the rice for 20 to 25 minutes before cooking, but if you are in a hurry, omit the soaking. You will still get good results. I also prefer to cook the rice in the same water in which it has been soaking.