Leftover cooked rice works best but freshly cooked rice can be used in a pinch. Spread the cooked rice out on a baking sheet or plate and allow it to cool for 20 or 30 minutes. Rice loses moisture quickly as it cools. If time allows, cover and refrigerate it for an hour or two to give it some time to dry out a little before proceeding with the recipe. Never allow cooked rice to sit out at room temperature for more than 1 to 2 hours at the most.