Rice is the staple food in almost any home. It has been eaten around the world since the beginning of time. The exact origin of this crop is unknown, but many speculate it was discovered somewhere in China, thousands of years ago. Rice plays a major role in almost every person's diet especially if you are on or below the poverty line. As a struggling college student and as an African, rice is one of my favorite foods. To make rice may seem like a simple feat, yet when many are put to the test, their rice comes out soggy, hard, or inedible. The tools needed to make rice are white or brown rice, cold water, a 4-5 quart stock pot, the matching lid to the pot, a sink, salt, butter or margarine, measuring cup, a large wooden or silicone spoon, a large mixing bowl, fork, timer, antibacterial soap, and finally a stove top. If you are trying to lead a healthier lifestyle, choose brown rice, and if you are not, use white rice. All items needed for this recipe can be found in your local grocery store.
First, decide how many people are being fed. We will be feeding a family of 4. The general serving size of rice is one cup of rice per two people. The rule of thumb is every cup of rice requires 1 3/4 cups of water. Go to the sink and wash your hands with the antibacterial soap. It is extremely important when handling food to make sure your hands are clean and no open wounds exist. Place the 4-5 quart saucepan on the stove and pour 3 1/2 cups of cold water into the pot. Next, grab the large mixing bowl and place it in the sink. Pour 2 cups of white or brown rice in the large mixing bowl and add cold water. Quickly rinse the rice by placing your clean hands in the rice and move them in a circular motion six times. The reasoning for rinsing rice is to remove talc powder, starches, and helps prevent clumping. This step is completely optional. After rinsing the rice, grab the strainer and pour the contents of the mixing bowl into the strainer.
