Rinse the rice: Place the jasmine rice in a fine-mesh strainer. Rinse it under cold running water, swirling the grains gently with your fingers, until the water runs mostly clear. This step is crucial for removing excess starch and preventing clumping.

Combine ingredients: Transfer the rinsed rice to a medium saucepan. Add the cold water and salt (if using). Give it a gentle stir.

Bring to a boil: Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the water to a rolling boil. Do not stir the rice once it starts boiling.

Simmer and steam: As soon as it boils, immediately reduce the heat to the lowest setting. Cover the saucepan tightly with a lid. Let it simmer undisturbed for 15 minutes.

Rest the rice: After 15 minutes, remove the saucepan from the heat, keeping the lid on. Let the rice rest and steam for another 10 minutes. This allows the grains to fully absorb the remaining moisture and become perfectly fluffy.

Fluff and serve: Remove the lid and gently fluff the rice with a fork or rice paddle. Serve immediately.