This recipe for simple Microwave Rice makes an easy and versatile side dish, ready to accompany many meals.
Rice is one of the most versatile side dishes. It’s the ideal base for meals that contain vibrant and tasty sauces, such as curries and stews. Making microwave rice is a convenient way to swiftly get dinner on the table. Although it doesn’t take less time than cooking rice on the stove, it does free up your stove burners to make other dishes.
I don’t know about you, but my kitchen is filled with gadgets, but the one kitchen machine I don’t own is a rice cooker. I never needed one, as I could easily make rice in a pot on the stove. Since I also have an Instant Pot, I have another option for making rice. Of course, cooking rice in the microwave simplifies everything, as you get nice, fluffy rice every time, and it’s easier to use, since I don’t have to pull out my Instant Pot.
I also like making rice in the microwave because I don’t end up with burnt rice if I forget about it on the stove, as I’ve been known to do. You know what I mean, something grabs your attention for a minute, and before you know it, you forget you were cooking. Since the microwave shuts off by itself, no more burnt rice!
Is Microwave Rice Healthy?
Rice is considered a healthy food, and since no oil is used in this recipe, the fat content is reduced compared to versions of rice cooking that involve oil or butter. Improve the overall healthfulness of the dish by serving it with abundant vegetables and lean protein, such as this recipe for Thai Green Curry, which contains carrots, bell peppers, zucchini, bamboo shoots, and snow peas.
Adjusting Your Quantities
While the recipe below provides four servings of rice, you can easily cut the recipe in half if you want only two servings. To feed a larger crowd, simply double the recipe. Make sure to use an appropriately sized container that’s large enough when microwaving rice, as it will fluff up.
FAQs & Tips
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Microwaved rice should be cooled to room temperature before storing in airtight containers or freezer-safe plastic bags. It can be refrigerated for up to 5 days or frozen for 2 months. I like to freeze rice in bags because they lie flat in the freezer, taking up less space. Cooked rice can be reheated from frozen without the need for thawing.
Can I Add Butter To My Rice?
Yes, butter can add flavor to rice cooked in the microwave. Only 1 tablespoon of butter is necessary for this recipe. However, I don’t recommend using it when the rice is the base for a dish with a sauce, such as curry, because the sauce will provide the richness and the flavor instead of the butter.
Why Do I Have To Rinse Rice Before Cooking?
Rinsing rice before cooking removes excess starch that could cause it to become gummy and sticky. It also removes any possible excess dirt or grit on the grains.
Serving Suggestions
Microwave rice is an easy-to-make side dish that goes well with many entrées. If you use jasmine rice, I recommend serving it with Asian Salmon (With Soy And Ginger), Mongolian Chicken, or this delicious Beef And Broccoli Recipe. Basmati rice goes great with Red Lentil Curry or Coconut Curry. You’ll love the versatility of making rice in the microwave!
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice e.g., jasmine or basmati
- 2 1/4 cups water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer under cold running water until the water runs clear.
- In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the rinsed rice, water, and salt.
- Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or plate and microwave on high power for 5 minutes.
- Carefully remove the bowl using oven mitts, stir the rice gently, and cover again.
- Reduce the microwave power to 50% and cook for an additional 15 minutes.
- Let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes to absorb any remaining moisture. Check the rice for doneness and cook 1-2 more minutes if needed.
- Once done, fluff the rice with a fork and serve warm.
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
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