There are several methods of cooking rice and each cook has their own techniques, formula, and preference. Some prefer to boil rice in plenty of water on the stovetop. When the rice is almost cooked, the starchy water is poured off, and the rice is cooked over low heat until each grain is light and fluffy. In the absorption method, an exact amount of water is added to the rice and brought to a boil, then covered and simmered on the stovetop until the water has been absorbed and the rice becomes tender and fluffy. Rice can also be cooked by first sautéing it in oil, adding a measured amount of water, and then simmering it, covered, until the water has been absorbed. Finally, if you own an electric rice cooker, and follow the directions correctly, you should be able to make perfect, fluffy rice that stays warm for hours without losing quality every time. If you enjoy rice and cook it often, it may be worth purchasing a rice cooker.