Rinse 1 cup brown rice under cold water until the water runs mostly clear
Add rice to a pot with 2 1/2 to 3 cups water (for softer rice use closer to 3 cups)
Add a pinch of salt (optional)
Bring to a boil over high heat
Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer 35 to 45 minutes
Do not lift the lid during cooking
Turn off heat and let sit, covered, 10 minutes
Fluff with a fork and serve