Discover the Filipino Method for Perfectly Measuring Water for Rice

The Fingertip Water Measuring Technique

As someone with Filipinx roots, rice was a staple at almost every meal in my home. Learning how to cook rice was one of my earliest kitchen lessons. If your family’s meals often feature rice, you might already be familiar with this simple but effective trick. For those who aren't, I'm about to share our time-honored method of using your fingertip to measure the right amount of water for cooking rice.

1. Pour the desired amount of rice into a pot or rice cooker.
2. Rinse and drain the rice a couple of times to remove any excess starch.
3. Fill the pot with enough water to just cover the rice, and give it a gentle shake to even it out.
4. Dip the tip of your finger into the pot until it lightly touches the rice, then add more water until it reaches the first knuckle of your finger.

And just like that, you’ve got the perfect water-to-rice ratio for perfectly cooked rice every time.

Finger vs. Measuring Cup: A Comparison

To test how well the fingertip method matched the instructions on my rice package, I measured one cup of medium grain white rice into a liquid measuring cup and added water until it reached the first joint of my middle finger.

After draining the rice, I checked how much water was used. It turned out to be about one and a half cups of water for one cup of rice—exactly the same as the package instructions. What’s even more remarkable is that this method works no matter how much rice I'm cooking, whether it's one, two, or three cups. The water level automatically adjusts accordingly. (Note: For brown rice, you'll need to add more water than for white rice, so keep that in mind.)

Is This Method Universal?

It might seem improbable, especially considering the variety of finger lengths out there. Yet, generations of home cooks have trusted this technique. I've come across versions where some use the first knuckle of their thumb, or measure rice to the first joint of their finger and add water to the second joint. Regardless of the method, it always results in perfectly cooked rice.

If you're unsure, here's my recommendation: On your first attempt, follow the package directions to measure the water. Then, dip your fingertips into the pot of rice and water, and observe where the water reaches on your finger (choose any finger, but remember which one). Cook the rice. If you're happy with the result, you'll know where the water should reach on your finger next time. If it’s too sticky, reduce the water. Too dry? Add a bit more. Either way, you’ll find the right balance and always have the perfect rice from then on.

You’ve now mastered a secret fingertip trick to boost your cooking skills.