How to Make Rice in Microwave

Why Make Rice in the Microwave?

Microwaving rice can be a convenient and efficient way to cook rice, especially if you don’t have a rice cooker or a stove. It’s also great for those who want to make a single serving or a small amount of rice without having to use a larger pot or cooker. Microwaving rice is also a time-saver, as you don’t have to wait for water to boil, and the cooking process is generally quicker than traditional stovetop methods. Additionally, microwaving rice can result in fluffy and evenly cooked rice, making it a reliable cooking option.

Choosing the Right Rice and Measuring Ingredients

When making rice in the microwave, it’s important to choose the right type of rice and measure your ingredients carefully to ensure the best results. Long-grain white rice, basmati rice, and jasmine rice are good options for microwaving, as they have a lower starch content and are less likely to become sticky. Brown rice can also be microwaved, but it may take longer to cook and may require more water.

To measure your ingredients, use a standard measuring cup to measure the rice and water. The general rule of thumb is to use a 1:1.5 or 1:2 ratio of rice to water, depending on the type of rice you’re using. For example, for every cup of long-grain white rice, use 1.5 cups of water. Always refer to the specific cooking instructions for the type of rice you’re using, as cooking times and ratios may vary.

Preparing Rice for Microwave Cooking

Before microwaving rice, it’s important to rinse it thoroughly to remove excess starch and debris. Place the desired amount of rice in a fine-mesh strainer and rinse it under cold running water until the water runs clear. This will help prevent the rice from becoming sticky.

Next, transfer the rinsed rice to a microwave-safe bowl or dish. It’s important to choose a container that is large enough to allow the rice to expand as it cooks, but not so large that the rice will cook unevenly. A 2-quart microwave-safe dish is typically a good size for cooking 1 to 2 cups of rice.

Finally, add the appropriate amount of water to the rice, according to the type of rice and the ratio you’re using. Stir the rice and water together to evenly distribute the water. If desired, you can also add a pinch of salt or a tablespoon of butter or oil to the rice for extra flavor.

Cooking Rice in the Microwave

To cook rice in the microwave, cover the bowl or dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap. If using plastic wrap, make sure to leave a small vent or opening to allow steam to escape.

Microwave the rice on high for 5 minutes. Then, reduce the power to 50% and microwave for an additional 10-15 minutes, depending on the amount of rice and the power of your microwave. Check the rice periodically during cooking to ensure it’s not boiling over or drying out.

Once the rice is fully cooked, remove it from the microwave and let it sit for 5-10 minutes to allow the steam to fully absorb into the rice. This will help make the rice fluffy and light. Fluff the rice with a fork and serve.

Letting Rice Rest and Serving Suggestions

After microwaving rice, it’s important to let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the rice to absorb any remaining moisture and ensures that it’s fluffy and evenly cooked. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving to separate the grains.

Rice can be served as a side dish, added to salads or soups, or used as a base for stir-fries or curries. For added flavor, consider adding spices or seasonings to the rice before or after cooking, such as garlic, ginger, soy sauce, or sesame oil.

Leftover rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-6 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to the rice and microwave it on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through.