Spread rice on a large plate or on any clean surface. Taking a small portion at a time, pick out any stones or other foreign matter present. Move the cleaned rice to one side and clean the rest of the rice a little at a time. We should make a habit of cleaning rice before use, some cleaned rice is also available in the market.

Any rice used in cooking has to be washed before use. Washing rice not only removes foreign objects but also remove some of the starch in the rice and helps in keeping each grain separate after it is cooked.

Place rice in a large bowl or pan and cover with cold water. Gently rub the rice with your fingers in the water. The water will turn milky white and any husks or bran will rise to the top. Drain the water and repeat the process three more times.

When using Basmati rice, it is necessary to soak it before it is cooked. Soak 1 cup rice in 2 cups water for about half hour. Soaked rice absorbs moisture before it is cooked and helps the rice to retain shape when cooked. Always cook rice in the water it is soaked in to retain all the vitamins and minerals in the water.

To cook rice on stove top, place rice and water in a heavy based pan on high heat until the water begins to boil. Turn the heat down to low and continue to cook until all the water is absorbed. Cooked rice will be light and fluffy. If the rice sticky and pasty then there was an excess of water used. The quickest way to cook rice is by using a pressure or a rice cooker. Always keep cooked rice covered until it is ready to use. It is best to serve rice the same day it is cooked. Storing rice in the refrigerator causes it to lose moisture and aroma. Most rice dishes like pulao and biryani can be prepared a few hours ahead of time.

In the oven - Place rice in a oven proof pan and sprinkle a few drops of water on the rice. Cover tightly with any aluminum foil and bake it at 300 degrees for 15 minutes.

On stove top - Place rice in a heavy based pan on the stove. Add a few drops of water and heat the pan at medium while continously stirring rice to prevent burning. Some people in Pakistan also like burnt rice they say its crispy and roasted. Reduce to minimum heat, cover and let the steam warm the rice thoroughly.

In the microwave - Place rice in a microwavable pan. Sprinkle a few drops of water on the rice, cover and microwave for 2 minutes. Stir rice and microwave again for another 2 minutes or until all the rice is warmed evenly.