The rice will be loose and will never stick — just a spoonful directly into the pot

Rice is one of the most popular side dishes. However, the result is often not what you’d expect: the grains stick together, forming a compact mass that ruins the presentation and texture of the dish.

There is a simple and natural trick that can change everything: adding lemon juice while cooking .

Why does lemon work on rice?

Lemon juice provides a slight acidic touch that serves two main functions:

• It enhances the flavor of the rice, making it fresher and more enjoyable.
• It prevents the grains from sticking together, resulting in looser and fluffier rice.

How to apply this trick

1. Wash the rice well before cooking it to remove excess starch.
2. Place the rice in the pot with the usual amount of water.
3. Add one teaspoon of lemon juice to a small saucepan.
4. If you want the rice to have a more intense white color, use a tablespoon of lemon juice.
5. Cook as usual until the rice is ready.

Extra benefits

In addition to improving the texture, this method provides a light citrus aroma that enhances the freshness of the dish and makes it more versatile as a side dish.

Tips and recommendations

• Always add the lemon at the beginning of cooking, along with the water.
• If you don’t have fresh lemon, you can use bottled juice, although the result will be more intense with natural fruit.
• This trick works for both white rice and more aromatic varieties, such as basmati or jasmine.

With just a few drops of lemon, your rice will be loose, shiny and much more appetizing, without the risk of it clumping together on the plate.