Rinse 1 cup of rice under cold water until the water runs mostly clear
Add the rinsed rice to a pot with 1 1/2 cups of water
Add a pinch of salt if desired
Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat
Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid
Simmer for 15 to 20 minutes without lifting the lid
Turn off the heat and let the rice sit covered for 5 to 10 minutes
Fluff the rice with a fork before serving