Can You Soak Parboiled Rice Before Cooking?

Yes, you can soak parboiled rice before cooking. Soaking parboiled rice for 20-30 minutes can help to reduce cooking time by 10-15 minutes and produce fluffier, more even rice. It can also help to remove some of the starch from the rice, which can make it less sticky and more digestible.

To soak parboiled rice, simply rinse the rice in cold water until the water runs clear. Then, place the rice in a large bowl and cover it with cold water. Let the rice soak for 20-30 minutes, then drain it well before cooking.

To cook soaked parboiled rice, use the same ratio of rice to water as you would for unsoaked rice (2 parts water to 1 part rice). Bring the water to a boil in a medium saucepan, then add the rice and salt to taste. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through. Remove the pan from the heat and let it stand for 5 minutes before fluffing the rice with a fork and serving.

Soaking parboiled rice is not necessary, but it is a simple step that can improve the texture and flavor of your rice.