Place rice in a fine-mesh sieve. Holding sieve in the sink, run cold tap water over rice, gently stirring with a clean hand until water runs clear. Turn off water and gently shake sieve to discard as much remaining water as possible. Set rice inside sieve aside.

In a medium pot over high heat, bring 1 1/2 c. water to a boil. Add 1/2 tsp. salt, then pour rice into pot, using a flexible rubber spatula to encourage all grains into the pot

Return to a simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer, undisturbed, until water is absorbed, about 15 minutes.

Remove pot from heat, remove lid, and cover pan with paper towel. Replace lid over paper towel and let steam 10 minutes.

Fluff with fork and serve