1-First Step: Prep and rinse the rice. Rinse 2 cups of white rice under cold water until the water runs mostly clear. This removes extra starch and helps prevent gummy rice.

2-Second Step: Oil the pot and add ingredients. Brush 1 tablespoon olive oil on the bottom of the inner pot to minimize sticking. Add the rinsed rice, 2 cups water, 2 finely minced cloves garlic, 1/2 teaspoon turmeric, 3/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper. Stir everything gently to combine.

3-Third Step: Seal and cook. Close the lid and set the valve to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 4 minutes. While the cooker heats up and reaches pressure, the rice will begin to absorb flavors from the garlic and turmeric.

4-Fourth Step: Pressure release and rest. Let the cooker naturally release pressure for 10 to 15 minutes. That gentle release finishes the cooking and helps the grains stay separate. After the natural release window, open the valve carefully to release any remaining pressure.

5-Fifth Step: Fluff and serve. Use a wooden spoon to fluff the rice gently to avoid breaking grains. Remove the inner pot with heat-safe gloves and place it on a trivet so the rice does not stick to your counter. Taste and adjust salt or pepper if needed. Serve hot.

6-First Step: Rinse and measure. Rinse 2 cups of rice until the rinse water is mostly clear. Place the rice into the rice cooker bowl.

7-Second Step: Add ingredients. Use 3 cups water for the rice cooker method. Add 1 clove garlic (finely minced), 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon turmeric, 3/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Stir gently to combine.

8-Third Step: Cook and rest. Close the lid and cook according to your rice cooker instructions. When the cooker switches to warm, let the rice sit with the lid closed for 5 minutes before opening. Fluff with a fork and serve.

9-First Step: Bring water to a boil. Measure 3.5 to 4 cups of water into a medium pot; use 3.5 cups for firmer rice and up to 4 cups for softer rice. Bring the water to a boil over high heat.

10-Second Step: Add rice and seasonings. Stir in the rinsed rice, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 minced clove garlic, 1/2 teaspoon turmeric, 3/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon black pepper once the water is boiling.

11-Third Step: Simmer and cover. Cover the pot, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes. Check around 15 minutes; rice is done when the water is absorbed and the grains are tender. Cooking times and water amounts can vary with pot size and stove type, so adjust as needed.

12-Fourth Step: Rest and fluff. Remove from heat and let the rice rest covered for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork or wooden spoon and serve.

13-Fresh herbs: Stir in chopped cilantro or parsley for a bright finish.

14-To make it a meal: Add chickpeas, toasted nuts, or cooked chicken to turn this side into a hearty main.

15-Accompaniments: Serve alongside grilled fish, curry, or a simple stir-fry for balanced meals.