What to do if rice is salty?

Ah, a classic cooking mishap! Don't worry, there are a few ways to salvage your salty rice:

1. Dilution:

* Add more water: This is the simplest solution. While the rice is still cooking, add more water to dilute the saltiness. You may need to adjust your cooking time slightly to account for the extra water.

* Add a bit of unsalted broth: This will help to dilute the salt and add some extra flavor to the rice.

* Steam the rice: Once cooked, spread the rice on a steamer basket and steam it for 5-10 minutes. This will help to evaporate some of the excess water and salt.

2. Absorption:

* Add a starchy ingredient: Stir in a tablespoon or two of cornstarch, flour, or even potato flakes. These will absorb some of the excess salt. Make sure to cook the rice for a few more minutes after adding these ingredients to allow them to fully absorb.

* Add rice noodles or vermicelli: Similar to the above, these noodles will absorb some of the salt. Just add them to the rice while it's still hot and cook for a few minutes until they're soft.

3. Flavor Masking:

* Add a sweet element: A touch of sugar, honey, or even a spoonful of fruit jam can help to balance the saltiness.

* Add a sour element: A squeeze of lemon juice or a tablespoon of vinegar can help to counteract the saltiness.

* Add a spicy element: A pinch of chili flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or a bit of ginger can mask the saltiness and add a kick to the rice.

4. Other Options:

* Mix with other ingredients: Make a savory rice dish like fried rice or rice salad. The other ingredients will help to balance out the saltiness.

* Use it as a base for another dish: You can use the salty rice as a base for a risotto or paella.

Important Note: The best solution will depend on the level of saltiness and your personal preferences. If you are not sure what to do, start with the simplest solutions first.

Prevention is Key:

* Use the right amount of salt: Start with a small amount of salt and add more as needed.

* Taste the water: Taste the water before adding the rice to make sure it's not too salty.

* Don't overcook the rice: Overcooked rice will absorb more salt.

* Use fresh ingredients: Salt can build up in rice that has been stored for a long time.

Remember, a little experimentation can help you find the perfect way to salvage your salty rice!