
Leftover rice can stay good for a few days in the fridge, but it tends to dry out quickly. Unless you're stir-frying, you probably don't want rice that's too crispy. Fortunately, you don't have to throw it away and cook a new batch. You just need an ice cube and a microwave to restore its texture.
This trick for reviving dry rice first gained attention on TikTok. In the viral video, the secret is adding an ice cube to the rice before microwaving. While you might think the ice would melt into a watery mess, it actually helps steam the rice, returning it to its soft, fluffy texture.
The Kitchn tried out this method and confirmed it works. As for why the ice doesn’t melt into a puddle, it’s due to the science of ice. The hydrogen bonds in ice are rigid, preventing water molecules from moving around. This means the ice keeps its shape as the surrounding food heats up, ensuring your rice doesn’t turn soggy.
Discover more simple kitchen tricks that can make your daily routine more convenient by checking out additional tips here.
