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How to Remove Excess Oil from Cooked Rice

Published in Rice Cooking Tips 3 mins read

To remove excess oil from cooked rice, the most effective methods involve draining it using a strainer or colander or absorbing the oil by gently patting the rice with a clean cloth or paper towel. These techniques help improve the texture and reduce the oiliness of your dish.

Effective Methods to Remove Oil from Rice

Excess oil can make rice clumpy or greasy. Fortunately, there are straightforward ways to mitigate this, ensuring your rice is light and fluffy.

Method Description Best For Key Action
Draining Separating oil through gravity using a perforated tool Rice that is still warm and has noticeable liquid oil Place rice in a strainer, allow oil to drip
Absorbing Soaking up oil using an absorbent material Any cooked rice, especially for surface oil Gently pat rice with a clean cloth/paper towel

1. Draining with a Strainer or Colander

This method is highly effective for removing oil that has separated from the rice, especially if the rice is still warm.

  • Process:
    • Preparation: Ensure you have a clean strainer or colander, preferably one with fine mesh to prevent rice grains from falling through.
    • Drainage: Carefully place the cooked rice in a strainer or colander and allow the excess oil to drain off. You can position the strainer over a bowl to catch the oil.
    • Agitation (Optional): To expedite the process, you can gently shake the strainer or use a spoon to lightly move the rice around. This helps more oil flow away from the grains.
  • Practical Insight: This method works best when the oil is still in a liquid state. If your rice has cooled and the oil has solidified, warming it slightly might help, though absorbing methods might be more suitable.

2. Absorbing with a Clean Cloth or Paper Towel

For oil that is clinging to the surface of the rice or when draining is less feasible, absorption is a great alternative.

  • Process:
    • Material: Grab a clean kitchen towel, a lint-free cloth, or several sheets of paper towel. Avoid heavily patterned paper towels as their dyes can transfer to food when wet.
    • Application: Take the cloth or paper towel and gently pat the cooked rice directly on the serving dish or cooking pot. Avoid pressing too hard, as this can crush the rice grains.
    • Replacement: As the cloth or paper towel becomes saturated with oil, replace it with a fresh piece and continue patting until the desired level of oil removal is achieved.
  • Practical Insight: This method is excellent for removing surface oil without significantly altering the rice's texture. It's particularly useful for dishes where you want to maintain the rice's form, like pilafs or fried rice.

By employing these simple yet effective techniques, you can easily remove excess oil from your cooked rice, leading to a more pleasant texture and a healthier meal.