I tried it myself. One batch rinsed, one batch straight from the bag. The rinsed version cooked in 40 minutes and fluffed like a cloud. The unrinsed batch took 50 minutes and came out gummy. It clumped together like a sad, sticky pancake.
My taste test was cruel. The rinsed rice had a nutty, clean pop. The unrinsed version tasted dusty and flat. It was like comparing a fresh apple to a dusty fake one. You could tell immediately.
But Wait—What About That “Don’t Rinse” Advice?
Some packages say “pre-washed” or “no rinse.” Check the label. If it says pre-washed, you can skip it. But most brown rice is not pre-washed. And even then, a quick rinse won’t hurt.
Do You Wash Brown Rice: Why You Should & How To Do It Right – Stretch
Some traditional dishes, like Indian biryani, actually require unrinsed rice for a sticky, layered effect. You’re making biryani? Then keep the glue. You’re making a simple side dish? Rinse it like you mean it.
