One of the biggest questions cooks have is how much water to add to make perfectly cooked rice. It can take lots of trial and error before you find the correct ratio of rice to water. One method is the rice finger trick. What is it, and how does it work?
The rice finger trick uses your index finger to measure the amount of cooking water needed for a pot of rice. Add rice to a pot and set your index finger on top. Fill the pot with water until it meets the knuckle at your first joint. Cook as usual. No special equipment or measuring cups are needed!
What Is The Rice Finger Trick?
The rice finger trick is a method to measure cooking water for rice. It’s also called the rice knuckle method. This method calculates the exact amount of water needed to cook rice.
The rice finger trick is simple:
- Add rice to your pot. Rinse and drain.
- Place your index finger on top of the rice and fill the pot with water up to your first knuckle.
That’s it! Cook the rice as you usually would.
Who Created The Rice Finger Trick?
The rice finger trick is sometimes called the “Asian finger trick” because it’s widely used in East Asia. It doesn’t require any measuring. All you need is a pot big enough to cook rice.
Does The Rice Finger Trick Work?
Yes, the rice finger trick works. Those who use it say it works best with white, sticky rice. Varieties like jasmine or basmati work exceptionally well with the rice finger trick.
How Does It Work?
The science behind the rice finger trick includes both absorption and evaporation. The amount of water each rice grain absorbs to soften and cook through is always the same. So, if you double the amount of rice, you should also double the water.
Some of the cooking water turns into steam and evaporates. The amount of evaporation doesn’t depend on how much rice you cook. It depends on the size of your pot, the tightness of the lid, and the cooking time. These variables are consistent, no matter how much rice you cook.
The volume between the top of the rice and your first knuckle is consistent. So, if you use the rice finger trick, you increase the amount of water for absorption while keeping the amount that evaporates the same.
The Rice Finger Trick: Step-By-Step Guide
The rice finger trick works best in a pot 8-10 inches across.
Step 1
Pour the amount of rice you’d like to cook into a pot that’s eight inches in diameter.
Step 2
Rinse the rice until the water runs clear. Drain any excess water.
Step 3
Spread the rice into an even layer. Place your index finger on top of the rice.
Step 4
Fill the pot with water until it reaches your first knuckle.
Step 5
Bring the pot to a boil and cook for 20-30 minutes. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
What If I Have Long Fingers?
Typically, the first finger joint of adults is similar in length. It may not be precisely the same length, but it is close. Compare your first finger joint with those around you. Your hand may be large, but the first finger joint of your index finger will be similar in size to other adults.
Does The Rice Finger Trick Work For Brown Rice?
Yes, the rice finger trick works with brown rice. Add your brown rice to a pot. Rinse until the water runs clear. Set your index finger on top of the rice. Fill the pot with water until it reaches your first knuckle. Bring the pot to a boil and cook for 40 minutes or until the rice is tender.
Does The Rice Finger Trick Work In A Rice Cooker?
Yes, the rice finger trick works in a rice cooker. Follow the directions above and cook on the white rice setting.
Does The Rice Finger Trick Work In An Instant Pot?
Yes, the rice finger trick works in the Instant Pot. Add your rice, measure to your knuckle, and cook for 9 minutes on normal pressure.
Final Thoughts
The rice finger trick is a method to measure the amount of cooking water for rice. It’s simple and requires only your index finger. Use the rice finger trick with most rice varieties.
