Technically, you can cook rice in the same pot twice, but it's not recommended. Here's why:
Quality: The second time you cook rice in the same pot, the quality and texture of the rice are likely to degrade. Reheating rice can make it dry and clumpy, as it may lose moisture and become less fluffy.
Food Safety: Rice is prone to bacterial growth, especially when it's left at room temperature for an extended period. If you've already cooked rice once and then leave it out at room temperature for a while, harmful bacteria like Bacillus cereus can multiply and produce toxins that won't be destroyed by cooking. Reheating rice doesn't necessarily make it safe to eat once it's been left out for too long.
Nutritional Value: Reheating rice multiple times can lead to nutrient loss. Overcooking or reheating rice repeatedly can break down its nutritional content, making it less nutritious compared to freshly cooked rice.
Flavor: The flavor of the rice might also suffer when you cook it a second time. Reheating rice can lead to a loss of flavor and aroma.
If you have leftover rice, it's best to store it in the refrigerator or freezer promptly after it cools down from the initial cooking. When you want to eat it again, make sure to reheat it thoroughly to kill any potential bacteria. However, avoid reheating rice more than once to maintain its quality and ensure food safety.