A hot, tender heap of rice is comfort food, just the way it is. There are so many ways to define a perfect batch, and as many ways to achieve it, but cooking basic rice on the stovetop is arguably the most versatile method. Once you’ve learned it, you’ll be able to make delicious rice anywhere, anytime, without any special equipment. We’ll teach you how to master the technique, and how to tweak it to get each batch the way you like it. Here’s how to get started: Rinse, cook, rest and fluff.