Rice is, arguably, the single most-important grain on the planet earth and one of the most significant crops throughout time and history. It also happens to be immensely reliable and terrific tasting, no matter the variety, how it's cooked, if it's served in a savory or sweet manner or what it's served alongside. A bed of rice is welcome next to practically any dish, soaking up some of the sauce and providing a soft, familiar chew with each bite. It also has a deep, symbolic meaning in so many different cultures.
One issue with rice, however — is that it's not always easy to cook! Take a look at endless examples of professional, tenured chefs with years of experience who've whiffed rice in a reality cooking competition in recent years (or maybe even that botched batch sitting in the garbage from your attempt at cooking rice the other night).
