How to Cook Rice at High Altitude
Cooking at high altitude requires special consideration. Because the air is dryer and the air pressure is lower, water boils at a lower temperature and moisture evaporates into the air more readily. About one third of Americans live in high altitude areas -- generally considered, in cooking, to be 3,000 feet above sea level or more -- so even common, basic foods like rice can cause problems. When you cook rice at high altitudes, you need to adjust the ingredient amounts and cooking time. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Increase the amount of liquid added to your rice by about 2 to 2 1/2 tbsp. per cup. For example, 1 cup of long grain white rice would need 1 3/4 cups of water at sea level, but about 2 cups of water at high altitude.
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Cook the rice longer. For example, long grain white rice takes about 15 to 18 minutes to cook at sea level, but may take 20 minutes or more at high altitude.
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Adjust as you go. For example, if you check the rice and find it overly wet, cook for another few minutes. If the rice is dry and underdone, add 1 to 2 tbsp. of water.
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Tips & Warnings
To cook any type of rice, combine rice and water or other cooking liquid and bring to a boil. Cover, reduce the heat and simmer until the water is absorbed.
When you're adjusting rice cooking times and water ratios for high altitudes, it's very important to know what type of rice you're dealing with and how it's normally cooked. Some rices, such as brown rice, require more water and a longer cooking time even at sea level.
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