How Long to Cook Brown Rice

Brown rice takes longer than white rice because of its bran layer. Learn exact cooking times for every method. Worth the wait for its nutty flavor and health benefits.

Quick Answer

How long to cook brown rice?

Brown rice takes 45 minutes on the stove with a 1:2.5 water ratio. In a rice cooker, it takes 45-60 minutes. In an Instant Pot, cook 22 minutes at high pressure plus 10 minutes natural release.

45 minutes (stove)

Brown Rice Cooking Times by Method

Brown rice needs more time and water than white rice. The bran layer takes longer to soften. Pressure cooking is the fastest method.

Brown rice cooking times by method
Method	Cooking Time	Water Ratio	Notes
Stove	45 minutes	1:2.5	Low heat, covered
Rice Cooker	45-60 minutes	1:2	Brown rice setting
Instant Pot	22 min + 10 min NPR	1:1.25	High pressure
Microwave	20-25 minutes	1:2.5	Medium power
Slow Cooker	3-4 hours (high)	1:2.5	Covered
Oven	60-75 minutes	1:2.5	350°F, covered
Pressure Cooker	20 min + 10 min NPR	1:1.25	High pressure

How Long to Cook Long Grain Brown Rice?

Long grain brown rice takes 45 minutes on the stove. Use 1 cup rice to 2.5 cups water. Long grain stays more separate than short grain. Slightly nutty flavor.

How Long to Cook Short Grain Brown Rice?

Short grain brown rice takes 45-50 minutes on the stove. Use 1 cup rice to 2.5 cups water. Stickier than long grain. Good for rice bowls and sushi alternatives.

How Long to Cook Brown Rice vs White Rice?

Brown rice takes 45 minutes, white rice takes 18 minutes on the stove. Brown rice needs nearly 2.5 times longer. The bran layer on brown rice requires more time to soften.

Brown rice vs white rice comparison
Rice Type	Stove Time	Water Ratio	Nutrition
White Rice	18 minutes	1:1.5	Less fiber
Brown Rice	45 minutes	1:2.5	More fiber, vitamins

How Long to Cook Instant Brown Rice?

Instant brown rice takes only 10 minutes. Bring water to boil, add rice, cover, remove from heat, and let stand 10 minutes. It is precooked and dehydrated for faster preparation.

How Long to Cook Soaked Brown Rice?

Soaked brown rice takes 35 minutes instead of 45. Soaking for 30 minutes softens the bran layer. Use fresh water for cooking after draining. Same water ratio applies.

How Long to Cook Brown Rice Noodles?

Brown rice noodles take 8-10 minutes in boiling water. They cook similar to regular rice noodles. Test at 8 minutes. Should be tender but not mushy.

How Long to Cook Brown Rice Pasta?

Brown rice pasta takes 10-12 minutes in boiling salted water. Similar to regular pasta. Gluten-free alternative. Rinse after cooking to prevent sticking.

Tips for Perfect Brown Rice

Use enough water. Brown rice absorbs more than white rice.
Soak to speed up. 30 minutes soaking saves 10 minutes cooking.
Use pressure cooker. Cuts cooking time in half.
Do not rush. Undercooked brown rice is hard and chewy.
Let it rest. 10 minutes resting improves texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Brown rice takes 45 minutes on the stove, 45-60 minutes in a rice cooker, and 22 minutes plus 10 minutes release in an Instant Pot. Brown rice takes 2-3 times longer than white rice.

Brown rice has the bran layer intact. This fiber-rich outer layer takes longer to absorb water and soften. The bran is what makes brown rice healthier but also slower to cook.

Brown rice takes 45 minutes on stove, white rice takes 18 minutes. Brown rice needs about 2.5 times longer. Use more water for brown rice at 1:2.5 ratio vs 1:1.5 for white.

Yes, soak brown rice for 30 minutes to reduce cooking time by 10 minutes. Or use an Instant Pot which cuts time to 22 minutes. Instant brown rice takes only 10 minutes.

Instant brown rice takes 10 minutes on the stove. Bring water to boil, add rice, cover, remove from heat, and let stand 10 minutes. It is precooked and dehydrated.

Soaked brown rice takes 35 minutes on the stove instead of 45. Soak rice for at least 30 minutes in warm water. Drain and cook with fresh water using same ratio.