How Long to Cook Sticky Rice
Sticky rice (glutinous rice) requires soaking before cooking. Learn exact times for steaming, rice cooker, Instant Pot, and stove methods.
How long to cook sticky rice?
Sticky rice takes 20-25 minutes in a steamer, 30-35 minutes in a rice cooker, or 12 minutes in an Instant Pot. Always soak sticky rice for at least 4 hours before cooking for proper texture.
Sticky Rice Cooking Times
Sticky rice (glutinous rice) requires soaking before cooking. The traditional steaming method produces the best texture for Thai and Southeast Asian dishes.
| Method | Cooking Time | Water Ratio | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Steamer/Bamboo | 20-25 min | Soak 4+ hours | Traditional method, best texture |
| Rice Cooker | 30-35 min | 1:0.75 | Use glutinous rice setting |
| Instant Pot | 12 min + NPR | 1:1 | Quick method, soak first |
| Stove | 20-25 min | 1:1.25 | Absorption method |
How Long to Cook Sticky Rice in Bamboo Steamer?
Sticky rice takes 20-25 minutes in a bamboo steamer. This traditional method creates authentic texture.
Steaming Steps:
- Soak sticky rice 4-8 hours or overnight
- Drain rice completely
- Line bamboo steamer with cheesecloth
- Spread rice in even layer
- Steam over boiling water 10-12 minutes
- Flip rice, steam another 10-12 minutes
- Test for even texture throughout
How Long to Cook Sticky Rice in Rice Cooker?
Sticky rice takes 30-35 minutes in a rice cooker. Use less water than regular rice.
- Soak rice 4+ hours first
- Use 1:0.75 water ratio
- Select glutinous or sweet rice setting
- Let rest 10 minutes after cooking
How Long to Cook Sticky Rice in Instant Pot?
Sticky rice takes 12 minutes in an Instant Pot plus natural pressure release. This is the fastest method.
- Soak rice at least 2 hours
- Use 1:1 water ratio
- Cook on high pressure 12 minutes
- Natural release 10 minutes
How Long to Cook Sticky Rice on Stove?
Sticky rice takes 20-25 minutes on the stove. Use the absorption method with extra water.
- Soak rice 4+ hours
- Use 1:1.25 water ratio
- Bring to boil, reduce to low
- Cover and simmer 20-25 minutes
Frequently Asked Questions
Sticky rice takes 20-25 minutes in a bamboo steamer. Soak the rice for at least 4 hours or overnight first. Steam over boiling water, flipping halfway through.
Glutinous rice takes 20-25 minutes steaming, 30 minutes in rice cooker, or 12 minutes in Instant Pot. Always soak for 4+ hours before cooking for best results.
Sticky rice takes 20-25 minutes on the stove using the absorption method. Use 1:1.25 water ratio. Bring to boil, reduce heat, cover and simmer until water is absorbed.
Sticky rice takes 30-35 minutes in a rice cooker. Use the glutinous or sweet rice setting if available. Use less water than regular rice (1:0.75 ratio).
Yes, soaking sticky rice is essential. Soak for minimum 4 hours, ideally overnight. This allows the rice to absorb water evenly and cook to the proper sticky texture.
Black glutinous rice takes 35-40 minutes to cook, longer than white sticky rice. Soak overnight and use 1:1.5 water ratio. The longer cooking time softens the bran layer.
Compare Rice Types
Different rice types have different cooking times and water ratios. Find the perfect rice for your dish.