Ever wonder why rice at good hotels and restaurants always tastes richer, fluffier, and more fragrant than the one you make at home? The secret isn’t in the rice — it’s in what they add to the water before cooking.
If you’ve only been using plain water, you’re missing out on a small trick that makes a huge difference. Here’s how chefs turn ordinary rice into something irresistible.
🍃 The Secret: Flavor-Infused Cooking Liquid
Hotels never cook rice in plain water. They use flavor boosters that infuse every grain with aroma, softness, and depth. You can easily do the same at home!
🌿 Here’s What to Add to the Water
For 1 cup of rice, try this mix:
- 2 cups of water or broth (vegetable or chicken broth adds rich flavor)
- 1 teaspoon olive oil or butter – for that silky, non-sticky texture
- A pinch of salt – to enhance the taste
- Optional: 1 small bay leaf or a few whole cloves for subtle aroma
You can also add:
- A squeeze of lemon juice for bright, fluffy rice
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil for tropical-style rice
- A bit of onion or garlic powder for savory dishes
🍲 Perfect Cooking Method
- Rinse the rice well until the water runs clear.
- Bring your flavored liquid to a gentle boil.
- Add the rice, stir once, then cover and lower the heat.
- Let it simmer until all liquid is absorbed.
- Turn off the heat and let it sit (covered) for 10 minutes — this step makes it extra fluffy!
✨ The Result
Every grain turns out soft, separate, and beautifully fragrant — just like hotel rice.
So next time you cook rice, skip the plain water and use this chef’s secret. You’ll never go back once you taste the difference — simple ingredients, extraordinary results!
