Step 1

Put the rice in a bowl and rinse with cold water 4 to 5 times or until the water runs clear.

Step 2

In a medium cooking pot or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. When the oil shimmers a bit, add the rice. Toss for a bit until the rice is well coated with the oil. Season with a good pinch of kosher salt.

Step 3

Add the water, and if using, add the cardamom pods and bay leaves.

Step 4

Bring the water to a boil. Turn the heat to low and cover the pot and leave it alone for 15 to 20 minutes. The rice will cook through and absorb all the water.

Step 5

Turn the heat off. Leave the rice covered and undisturbed for 5 more minutes. Remove the cardamom pods and bay leaves before you fluff the rice up with a fork and serve it.

Step 6

Put the rice in your rice cooker. Season with kosher salt and add the oil and water. Stir to combine. (you can add the cardamom pods or bay leaves, if using).

Step 7

Cover the rice cooker with the lid securely. Follow the rice cooker use safety instructions. If your cooker has several settings, select the normal (regular/sushi) setting and turn it on.

Step 8

When the rice is ready, allow it to sit in the rice cooker undisturbed for a few minutes longer before you fluff and serve it.