Rinse 1 cup of white rice under cold water until the water runs mostly clear
Add the rice to a pot with 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 lid
Simmer for 15 to 18 minutes without lifting the lid
Turn off the heat and let the rice sit covered for 5 minutes
Fluff the rice with a fork before serving