PERFECT BOILED WHITE RICE

Prep Time: 30 Minutes
Yield: 3 Cups

Comment:
Rice is second in importance only to the roux in Cajun and Creole cooking. In South Louisiana, we begin the day with rice for breakfast. Riz jaune or yellow rice, two eggs cracked over fried rice and season with boudin blanc, is considered a mainstay in many homes. Throughout the day, rice continues to find its place on the table. You will find rice everywhere, served with gumbo, etouffee, sauce piquante, crawfish bisque, and of course, our famous red beans. Even in dessert, we incorporate rice. One of the finest desserts in Cajun country is rice pudding, cooked rice blended into vanilla custard and served warm. Rice is a natural for the hard-working Cajun, who can look over a rice field and calculate how many gallons of seafood gumbo it will take to cover it. From time to time, we in bayou country may eat potatoes, pasta or grits, but nothing will ever take the place of rice in Cajun cuisine.

Ingredients:
1 cup long grain rice
1 quart water
salt to taste

Method:
Wash rice a minimum of two times in clear cold water and drain well. In a heavy-bottomed saucepot over medium-high heat, bring water and salt to a rolling boil. Add rice, stir and return to boil. Boil 20–25 minutes or until tender, stirring occasionally. Test rice for doneness by tasting a few grains after 15 minutes of cooking. When done, drain and serve hot or chill under cold tap water. To reheat, microwave or dip in hot water for 2–3 minutes.