Morisqueta (Plain Boiled Rice)

Ingredients

• 1 cup (about 225 g) unconverted long-grain rice (Oryza sativa, long-grain variety)
• 2 cups (475 ml) cold water (for soaking) + 2 cups (475 ml) for cooking
• Sea salt — a small pinch, optional

Method

1. 1
   Place rice in a bowl and cover with hot (not boiling) water. Soak 8 minutes.
2. 2
   Drain completely, then rinse under cold running water until the water runs clear. Drain again well.
3. 3
   In a heavy pot or earthenware bean pot, bring 2 cups (475 ml) water to a rolling boil over medium-high heat.
4. 4
   Sprinkle the rinsed rice evenly into the boiling water. If using salt, add it now.
5. 5
   Return to a boil, then immediately cover the pot and reduce heat to the absolute lowest setting.
6. 6
   Steam undisturbed for 18–20 minutes, until grains are fluffy and water is fully absorbed.
7. 7
   Remove from heat, leave covered for 5 minutes, then fluff gently with a fork.