How to Cook Rice at High Altitude

Cooking rice at high altitude is easier than you may think. Foods cook differently at high altitudes compared to sea-level, and rice is no exception. Follow these simple instructions to produce fluffy, tasty rice at high altitude.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• rice
• pot with lid
• butter
• garlic powder
• salt
• pepper
• water

1. 
    
   Butter

   Heat 1 tbsp butter in a medium pot over high heat.

2. 
    
   Uncooked Rice

   Once the butter has melted, add 1 cup of medium-grain rice. Add a generous sprinkle of garlic powder, salt, and pepper (about 1/8 teaspoon each) to the rice.

3. 
    
   Toasted Rice

   Toast the rice until the grains are transparent and some rice grains are starting to brown (not burn). Stir the rice frequently.

4. 
    
   Measuring Cup

   Add 2 1/2 cups water to the rice and spices. Bring the water and rice to a rolling boil over high heat (add slightly more water for altitudes above 7,000 feet).

5. 
    
   Covered Pot

   Once the water has boiled, turn the heat down to low and cover the pot. Be sure a tiny amount of air can escape (not too much). Let the rice simmer for 30 minutes untouched.

6. 
    
   High-Altitude Rice

   Stir, fluff, and serve the rice immediately. Makes 4-6 servings.

Tips & Warnings

• Experiment with flavors! Add chopped onion, carrot, veggies, etc before boiling for delicious veggie rice.
• Stir-fry cooked rice with egg, soy sauce, meat, and veggies for a delicious dish.
• Do not uncover rice while cooking! You will release the steam and make it take longer.

Resources

• High Altitude Cooking Information

[Devero]

on 1/2/2009 Thanks for the tips, i've been trying to figure this stuf out since I moved to the mountains.

[amberdawn]

on 12/15/2008 Thanks for the info. 5*

[miasavc]

on 12/12/2008 I did not know this. Good article, though!