How to cook rice in the microwave

Ingredients

• 180 g (1 cup)white rice (such as basmati)
• 480 ml (2 cups)water
• 5 ml (1 teaspoon)salt

Instructions

1. 1

   Add the rice

   Put the rice in a ceramic or glass bowl with a lid.

2. 2

   Pour in water

   Add the cold water to the bowl.

3. 3

   Season the rice

   Add salt to taste.

4. 4

   Cover the bowl

   Fit the lid and place the bowl in the microwave.

5. 5

   Cook the rice

   Microwave on high for 8 minutes.

6. 6

   Stir the rice

   Carefully remove the bowl from the microwave and stir the rice.

7. 7

   Finish cooking

   Replace the lid and return the bowl to the microwave. Cook on high for 3 minutes more, or until all the water has been absorbed and the rice is dry.

What is microwave rice?

Microwave rice is rice cooked with water in a covered, microwave-safe bowl rather than in a pan on the hob. This method is a handy option for an everyday side when you want to keep cooking equipment to a minimum.

Basmati is suggested here for its long grains, while the covered bowl lets the rice cook in the water as it heats. The brief stir between cooking stages helps redistribute the rice before it finishes cooking.

Nutrition and macros by portion

The nutrition label shows one serving as written: 169 calories, 3g protein, 37g carbs, 0g fat.

Most of this serving's carbohydrate comes from the white rice, while the water adds no macros and the small amount of salt contributes sodium. Rice contributes a little protein, with very little fat; pair it with vegetables and a protein-rich main for a more balanced plate.

Choosing the rice and bowl

Rice: the recipe calls for white rice and suggests basmati. Use the measured 180 g so the stated water quantity stays in proportion.

Bowl: choose a ceramic or glass bowl with a lid, as specified in the method. Make sure it is large enough to hold the rice and water with room to spare.

Why the lid matters

Covered cooking: the lid stays on for both microwave stages, helping keep the water with the rice as it cooks. Use the bowl's lid rather than leaving the rice uncovered.

Handling: the bowl will be hot when you take it out after 8 minutes. Lift it carefully, stir, then replace the lid before returning it to the microwave.

Checking the texture

First stage: after 8 minutes on high, remove the bowl and stir the rice as directed. This is a mid-cook stir, not a final check for doneness.

Final cue: cook for 3 minutes more, or until the water has all been absorbed and the rice is dry. If water remains, continue cooking until that cue is reached.

Timing and microwave differences

The stated microwave time is 11 minutes in total, split into 8 minutes and a further 3 minutes after stirring. The recipe does not include separate resting time.

Microwave performance can vary, so use the absorbed-water cue as well as the suggested final 3 minutes. Keep the bowl covered while it finishes cooking.

Serving the rice

Serve the rice as a simple accompaniment to a curry, a saucy stew or a meal with vegetables and a protein of your choice. Its mild flavour also makes it easy to pair with a range of seasonings.

For a more rounded plate, combine it with vegetables and a source of protein; the rice itself mainly contributes carbohydrate.

Recipe notes & tips

• Measure the rice and water rather than estimating them.
• Use a ceramic or glass bowl with a lid, as called for in the method.
• Season the water to your taste before cooking.
• Stir the rice after the first 8 minutes, then cover it again.
• Check that the water has been absorbed before serving.

Variations

• Use another white rice: keep the method and check the texture and water absorption as it finishes.
• Add herbs: stir chopped fresh herbs through the cooked rice before serving.
• Add citrus: finish the rice with a little lemon zest for a fresh note.
• Add spices: season the water with a pinch of a spice that suits your meal.
• Use unsalted rice: leave out the salt and season the rice at the table.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Using an uncovered bowl: the method relies on a lid, so cover the bowl for both cooking stages.
• Choosing a bowl that is too small: use one with room for the rice and water while they cook.
• Skipping the stir: remove the bowl after 8 minutes and stir before the final stage.
• Stopping while water remains: cook for the additional 3 minutes or until the water has been absorbed.
• Assuming every microwave finishes identically: check the rice's dryness and continue cooking if needed.

How to store

Refrigerate leftover rice promptly in a covered container and use within 1 day. Reheat until steaming hot throughout, adding a splash of water if it seems dry.

Frequently asked questions