Maman Fari

Washing Rice

شستن برنج

The foundational technique for achieving fluffy, separate grains in Persian rice dishes.

Persian RiceBeginner10 min1 / 7
1

Why Wash Rice?

Persian rice cooking aims for grains that are:

  • •Fluffy and light
  • •Separate, not sticky
  • •Elongated after cooking

Unwashed rice has excess surface starch that causes grains to clump together. Washing removes this starch for perfect results.

2

The Washing Process

Step 1: Measure and Rinse

Place rice in a large bowl. Add cold water to cover by several inches.

Swirl the rice gently with your hand. The water will turn cloudy white — this is the starch releasing.

Step 2: Drain and Repeat

Carefully pour off the cloudy water, keeping the rice in the bowl.

Repeat the rinsing process 5-7 times until the water runs mostly clear. This typically takes 5-6 rinses.

Step 3: The Final Rinse

For the last rinse, run cold water directly over the rice while gently agitating. Drain thoroughly.

3

Soaking

Why Soak?

Soaking accomplishes two things:

  1. •Hydrates the grain: Rice absorbs water, reducing cooking time
  2. •Allows elongation: Grains can expand lengthwise instead of breaking

The Method

Cover washed rice with fresh cold water. Add 1-2 tablespoons salt per cup of rice — this seasons the grain throughout.

Soak for minimum 2 hours. For best results, soak 4-6 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.

How to Tell It's Ready

Properly soaked rice:

  • •Appears slightly opaque/chalky
  • •Grains feel slightly soft but still firm
  • •Will break cleanly when bent (not mushy)
4

Common Mistakes

Under-Washing

Problem: Sticky, clumpy rice Solution: Keep rinsing until water is clear

Over-Soaking

Problem: Rice becomes mushy and breaks during cooking Solution: Don't exceed 8 hours; refrigerate if soaking longer

Skipping the Salt

Problem: Bland rice that needs more seasoning after cooking Solution: Salt the soaking water — 1-2 tbsp per cup of rice

Using Warm Water

Problem: Rice starts cooking prematurely Solution: Always use cold water for washing and soaking

5

Tips for Different Rice Types

Basmati (Most Common)

  • •Standard 5-7 rinses
  • •2-4 hour soak ideal
  • •Salt the soaking water

Aged Basmati

  • •May need fewer rinses
  • •Shorter soak (1-2 hours)
  • •Elongates dramatically

Jasmine or Other Short-Grain

  • •More starch, needs more rinsing (7-10 times)
  • •Shorter soak to prevent mushiness
  • •Not traditional for Persian cuisine but can work
6

Preparing Ahead

Washed and soaked rice can be:

  • •Drained and refrigerated for 1-2 days
  • •Frozen in portions for quick cooking
  • •Left in salted water in the fridge overnight