Step 1

Fill a large pot with water 3/4 full, and bring to a boil over high heat. Season the water with a few big pinches of salt. It should taste like sea water. Stir in the rice, drop the heat to medium, and cook uncovered until al dente, stirring occasionally. For white rice, start checking for doneness (tasting) at 7 minutes. For me, white rice is usually done around 8 minutes. For brown rice, start checking for doneness at 25 minutes. For me, brown rice is usually done around 27 minutes.*

Step 2

Drain the rice and return it back to the same pot set over the lowest heat possible. Stir in butter and a pinch of salt. Cover and let rest for 10 minutes, stirring once after 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and season to taste with additional salt.