Why Does Rice Become Sticky?

Rice becomes sticky when excess starch on the grains' surface enters the cooking water and forms a gel that binds the grains together. Rice cooked without rinsing, with too much water, or from a high-starch variety is more likely to turn mushy. Round-grain, high-starch rice is naturally stickier, while long-grain rice tends to cook up more separate. Excess water and overcooking can make grains swell, break apart, and release more starch.

How to cook rice with separate grains

• Rinse the rice several times in cold water until the water runs clear to remove surface starch.
• If desired, soak it in warm salted water for 20 minutes, then drain it; this may help the grains cook more separately.
• Toast the rice in butter or oil for a few minutes to coat the grains lightly.
• Use the amount of water called for in the recipe.
• After the rice comes to a boil, cook it over low heat without stirring, then let it rest.

Common mistakes when cooking rice

Cooking unrinsed rice allows surface starch to enter the water. Too much water can make the grains swell and break apart. Frequent stirring can crush the grains and release more starch. Serving the rice without letting it rest can also encourage the grains to stick together.

Does the rice variety matter?

Rice varieties differ in starch content and grain shape. Long-grain, lower-starch rice usually cooks up with more separate grains, while round- and short-grain varieties are naturally stickier. Choose a long-grain variety when you want a fluffy pilaf. Some dishes call for a sticky texture, so choose the variety based on the recipe.

Does rinsing reduce stickiness?

Rinsing rice before cooking removes much of the free starch on the grain surfaces. Cloudy rinse water means starch is still present; keep rinsing until the water runs clear. Drain the rice thoroughly afterward so excess rinse water does not change the recipe's water ratio.

For less sticky rice, rinse it well, measure the cooking water accurately, and let it rest after cooking. Choosing a suitable variety also helps produce consistent results.