How Long to Cook Rice in Microwave
Microwave rice is quick and easy with the right technique. Learn exact times for white rice, minute rice, and frozen rice. No special equipment needed.
How long to cook rice in microwave?
White rice takes 12-15 minutes in the microwave at medium-high power. Use 1 cup rice to 2 cups water. Cover and cook 12 minutes, then rest 5 minutes. Minute rice takes only 5 minutes.
Microwave Rice Cooking Times
Times are for 1000-watt microwave. Adjust for lower wattage. Always use a microwave-safe container with a vented lid.
| Rice Type | Cooking Time | Water Ratio | Power Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| White Rice | 12-15 minutes | 1:2 | Medium-high power |
| Brown Rice | 20-25 minutes | 1:2.5 | Medium power |
| Jasmine Rice | 12-15 minutes | 1:1.75 | Medium-high power |
| Minute Rice | 5 minutes | 1:1 | High power + rest |
| Instant Rice | 5 minutes | 1:1 | High power + rest |
| Frozen Rice | 2-3 minutes | None | High power |
| Uncle Ben's | 10-12 minutes | Follow package | Medium power |
How Long to Cook White Rice in Microwave?
White rice takes 12-15 minutes in the microwave. Use 1 cup rice to 2 cups water. Cook at 70% power for more even results. Let rest covered for 5 minutes after cooking.
Use a large bowl to prevent boilover. Rice and water expand during cooking. A 2-quart bowl works for 1 cup of rice. Cover with a microwave-safe plate or vented lid.
How Long to Cook Minute Rice in Microwave?
Minute rice takes 5 minutes total in the microwave. Microwave water to boiling first. Add equal parts rice and water, cover, and let stand 5 minutes. No further cooking needed.
Minute rice is precooked and dehydrated. It only needs to absorb hot water. Do not microwave the rice itself or it becomes mushy.
Microwave Rice Times by Quantity
Larger amounts take longer in the microwave. Use a bigger container to prevent boilover. Stir halfway through for even cooking.
| Rice Amount | Water Amount | Servings | Cook Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1/2 cup | 1 cup | 1 serving | 10-12 minutes |
| 1 cup | 2 cups | 2-3 servings | 12-15 minutes |
| 2 cups | 4 cups | 4-6 servings | 18-20 minutes |
| 3 cups | 6 cups | 6-8 servings | 22-25 minutes |
How Long to Cook Rice in Microwave Rice Cooker?
Microwave rice cookers take the same time as regular bowls. They prevent boilover with special vented lids. Follow included instructions for water ratios.
Brands like Sistema, Progressive, and Joseph Joseph make microwave rice cookers. Most cook 1-2 cups rice. Time is usually 12-15 minutes plus 5 minutes rest.
How Long to Cook Frozen Rice in Microwave?
Frozen rice takes 2-3 minutes in the microwave. No water needed. The rice is already cooked and just needs reheating. Poke holes in the bag or transfer to a dish.
Trader Joe's frozen rice takes 3 minutes. Store brands are similar. Stir halfway through for even heating. Add a splash of water if rice seems dry.
How to Cook Rice in Microwave Step by Step
- Rinse rice. Rinse under cold water until clear. This removes excess starch.
- Add to container. Use a microwave-safe bowl at least twice the volume of rice and water combined.
- Add water. Use 2 cups water per 1 cup white rice.
- Cover loosely. Use a microwave-safe plate or vented lid. Leave a small gap for steam.
- Microwave on high. Cook 5 minutes to bring water to boil.
- Reduce power. Continue at 50-70% power for 10-12 minutes.
- Rest covered. Let stand 5 minutes without removing cover.
- Fluff and serve. Remove cover carefully. Fluff with fork.
Microwave Rice Tips
- Use a large container. Prevents boilover. Rice expands significantly.
- Add salt to water. Improves flavor. Add before cooking.
- Lower power is better. 70% power cooks more evenly than full power.
- Rest time is essential. Rice finishes cooking during rest. Do not skip.
- Know your microwave. Cooking times vary by wattage. Adjust as needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
White rice takes 12-15 minutes in the microwave at medium-high power. Use a 1:2 rice to water ratio. Cover with a microwave-safe lid. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
Minute rice takes 5 minutes total in the microwave. Boil water in microwave for 2-3 minutes. Add rice, cover, and let stand 5 minutes. Do not cook further.
One cup of white rice takes 12-15 minutes in the microwave. Use 2 cups of water. Microwave at 70% power for 12 minutes, then rest 5 minutes covered.
Yes, use any microwave-safe bowl with a lid or plate cover. Glass dishes work best. Leave a small vent for steam. The key is using enough water and proper timing.
Hard rice means not enough water or cooking time. Add more water next time. Also let rice rest covered for 5 minutes after cooking. This allows moisture to distribute evenly.
Frozen rice takes 2-3 minutes in the microwave. No water needed. Poke holes in plastic or transfer to microwave-safe dish. Stir halfway through for even heating.
Compare Rice Cooking Methods
Different methods work better for different situations. Compare cooking times and choose the best option for your needs.