Microwave Rice

5.0
(3)

This recipe makes perfect rice in the microwave every time.

close up on a bowl of easy microwave rice
Cook Time:
12 mins
Active Time:
5 mins
Stand Time:
6 mins
Total Time:
30 mins
Servings:
4

No stove? No problem! Learn how to microwave rice with this quick and easy recipe.

Can You Cook Rice In the Microwave?

Yes, you can cook rice in the microwave! It's actually quite easy if you know what to do — and that's where we come in. This microwave rice recipe is incredibly quick and convenient.

How to Cook Rice In the Microwave

You'll find a detailed ingredient list and step-by-step instructions in the recipe below, but let's go over the basics:

What You'll Need to Microwave Rice

These are the four simple ingredients you'll need to make rice in the microwave:

· Rice: This recipe works well for any type of long-grain white rice, such as jasmine or basmati. It also works well with sushi rice.
· Water: You'll need about 1 ½ cups of water to cook a cup of rice.
· Fat: A teaspoon of fat, such as butter or oil, enhances the flavor and prevents stickiness.
· Salt: Kosher salt also enhances the overall flavor of the rice.

Note: We tested this recipe in 1000W and 1250W microwaves.

How to Make Rice In the Microwave

Here's a brief overview of what you can expect when you make microwave rice:

1. Rinse and drain the rice, place it in a microwave-safe bowl, and add the remaining ingredients.
2. Microwave the rice uncovered until the water is mostly absorbed. Cover tightly, then microwave again until the rice is fully absorbed.
3. Let stand, covered, for six minutes. Uncover and fluff the rice with a fork.

Learn more: How to Reheat Rice In the Microwave, on the Stove, or In the Oven

Editorial contributions by Corey Williams

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Ingredients

Original recipe (1X) yields 4 servings

  • 1 cup long-grain white rice (such as jasmine or basmati)

  • 1 ½ cups water

  • 1 teaspoon unsalted butter or oil

  • ¾ teaspoon kosher salt

Directions

  1. Gather all ingredients.

    a top down view of all ingredients gathered to make microwave rice.

    Dotdash Meredith Food Studios

  2. Rinse rice using a fine-mesh strainer, gently stirring by hand, until water runs somewhat clear.

    a top down view of rice being rinsed in a fine mesh strainer

    Dotdash Meredith Food Studios

  3. Thoroughly drain rice and place in a 8-cup microwave safe bowl or container; add water, butter or oil, and salt.

    a top down view of rice in a clear mixing bowl just topped with water with a tablespoon of butter added.

    Dotdash Meredith Food Studios

  4. Microwave uncovered on HIGH until water is mostly absorbed and some steam holes appear on the surface, 8 to 10 minutes.

    A top down view of microwave rice par cooked in a glass mixing bowl.

    Dotdash Meredith Food Studios

  5. Cover tightly with microwave safe plastic wrap, lid, or plate; microwave on HIGH for 4 more minutes until rice is tender and water is fully absorbed. Let stand, covered, for 6 minutes.

    a top down view of microwave rice steamed in a glass mixing bowl.

    Dotdash Meredith Food Studios

  6. Uncover; fluff and taste rice using a fork. If rice is not yet tender, cover and microwave on HIGH in 1-minute intervals as needed until rice reaches desired consistency.

    a top down view of microwave cooked riced fluffed in a glass mixing bowl

    Dotdash Meredith Food Studios

  7. Serve immediately.

    a high angle view looking into a black bowl of perfectly cooked microwave rice.

    Dotdash Meredith Food Studios

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

177 Calories
1g Fat
37g Carbs
3g Protein
Nutrition Facts
Servings Per Recipe 4
Calories 177
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 1g 2%
Saturated Fat 1g 4%
Cholesterol 3mg 1%
Sodium 365mg 16%
Total Carbohydrate 37g 13%
Dietary Fiber 1g 2%
Protein 3g 7%
Potassium 54mg 1%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

(-) Information is not currently available for this nutrient. If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.