How to Reheat Rice in the Microwave

Ingredients

• 185 g (1 cup)cooked, refrigerated rice
• 15 ml (1 tablespoon), plus more for brown or short-grain ricefiltered water

Instructions

1. 1

   Add the rice

   Take the cold rice from the fridge and put it in a microwave-safe bowl. Break up any large clumps so it heats more evenly and quickly.

2. 2

   Sprinkle with water

   Distribute the water over the rice.

3. 3

   Cover and heat

   Cover the bowl with a towel or microwave-safe lid. Microwave on high for 2 minutes, or until an instant-read or laser thermometer registers 74°C (165°F).

4. 4

   Remove the cover

   Take off the towel carefully, watching out for escaping steam, then serve.

What is microwave-reheated rice?

This is a quick method for restoring refrigerated cooked rice to a warm, tender texture. Rice is a staple across many Asian cuisines, though this simple reheating technique is useful wherever leftover rice is served.

A sprinkle of water and a covered bowl help soften the chilled grains as they warm. The method is intentionally simple: it needs no pan and takes about 4 minutes in total.

Nutrition and macros by portion

The nutrition label shows one serving as written: 205 calories, 4g protein, 45g carbs, 0g fat.

Most of this serving’s carbohydrates come from the rice, which also provides a little protein; the added water contributes no macros. Pair it with vegetables and a protein-rich topping such as tofu, egg or fish for a more complete plate.

Why add water?

Cold rice can become firm as it sits in the fridge. A small amount of water provides moisture as the rice heats, helping it taste less dry.

Brown and short-grain rice may need a little extra water, as the recipe notes. Add it sparingly so the grains warm without becoming soggy.

Break up clumps first

Large clumps can heat unevenly in the microwave. Gently separate them before adding the water, taking care not to mash the grains.

Spreading the rice in the bowl also helps the water reach more of it.

Cover for even heating

Use a microwave-safe lid or a towel to cover the bowl while it cooks. This keeps moisture around the rice as it heats.

Leave the cover in place during cooking, then lift it carefully: trapped steam can escape quickly.

Check the temperature

The recipe gives 2 minutes on high as a guide, but microwave power and the amount of rice can affect the result. Check the centre with an instant-read or laser thermometer and heat until it reaches 74°C.

If it has not reached that temperature, continue heating in short intervals and check again.

Serve it with

Use the warmed rice as a base for a meal with vegetables, eggs, tofu, fish or meat. It can also accompany a curry, stir-fry or saucy dish.

Keep any additions separate from the reheating step so the rice can be checked for temperature on its own.

Recipe notes & tips

• Break apart firm clumps before microwaving so they heat more evenly.
• Spread the water across the rice rather than pouring it into one spot.
• Use a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a microwave-safe lid or towel.
• Add a little extra water for brown or short-grain rice, as needed.
• Check the rice reaches 74°C before serving.
• Lift the cover away from your face and hands to avoid the steam.

Variations

• Brown rice: Add a little more water if the grains still seem dry.
• Short-grain rice: Sprinkle on extra water as needed to rehydrate it.
• Seasoned rice: Stir through herbs or a seasoning sauce after reheating.
• Rice bowl: Top the warmed rice with vegetables and your choice of protein.
• Plain accompaniment: Serve alongside a curry, stir-fry or other saucy dish.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Leaving clumps intact: they can heat unevenly, so break up larger pieces first.
• Skipping the water: the rice may stay dry, so sprinkle water over the grains before heating.
• Using too much water: the grains can turn soggy, so start with the stated amount and add only a little more if needed.
• Heating uncovered: the rice can lose moisture, so cover the bowl with a towel or microwave-safe lid.
• Relying only on the timer: microwave power varies, so check for 74°C and continue heating if necessary.
• Removing the cover carelessly: hot steam can burn, so lift it away from yourself.

How to store

This method is for rice that has already been refrigerated; keep leftovers covered in the fridge and reheat only the portion you plan to eat. The recipe does not specify a storage duration, so follow your usual food-safety guidance for cooked rice.

Frequently asked questions