Step 1

First wash the rice thoroughly in a sieve for a couple minutes, gently turning it over by hand until the water runs clear.

Step 2

Drain the rice and put it into a pot with 2 cups of water.

Step 3

Leave it to stand for a minimum of 30 minutes. It can be left overnight, but for best results I recommend leaving it for 1 to 2 hours.

Step 4

After soaking, leave the water in the pot and bring the rice to the boil.

Step 5

Put the lid on, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 8 minutes.

Step 6

Remove from the heat and let it stand with the lid on for a further 5 minutes. Do not open the lid.

Step 7

After the time is up open the lid and mix gently with Spatula or “Shamoji” – a Japanese wooden spoon.

Step 8

Serve alongside your main of choice or shaped into Onigiri. Your rice should be fluffy, sticky and still a little al dente.