How to Cook Rice in a Microwave Perfectly Every Time

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Things You'll Need

  • Water

  • Large lidded glass bowl

Cook rice in a microwave for fluffy, clump-free results.

With the right method, cooking rice in the microwave allows you to prepare rice perfectly every time. Using the microwave to make rice is simple and time-saving, and can result in fluffy, clump-free rice with little to no residual water. By using the correct ratio of water to rice, and an appropriate-sized cooking vessel, you can quickly and correctly cook rice in a microwave.

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Step 1

Measure out the rice and water in the correct ratio. Determine the number of cups of rice you need. For regular long-grain rice, use a 2:1 water to rice ratio. If preparing parboiled or whole-grain brown rice, use 2 1/4 cups of water for every cup of rice.

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Step 2

Add the rice and water together in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover the bowl. Use a bowl that holds at least 2 1/2 to 3 qt., keeping in mind that rice triples in volume when cooked.

Step 3

Add butter or margarine and salt, if desired, to the rice. Place the bowl in the microwave.

Step 4

Microwave the rice on high for 5 minutes. For long-grain rice, reduce power to 50 percent and microwave for 15 minutes more. For parboiled and brown rice, reduce power to 50 percent and microwave for 20 minutes more.

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Step 5

Remove the bowl from the microwave and let it stand for 5 minutes. Do not disturb the rice during the resting period. Stirring the rice will release excess starch and make the rice sticky. Check the rice after 5 minutes and fluff with a fork if all liquid has been absorbed. If the rice is still hard and the liquid is not absorbed, microwave the bowl in 2-minute intervals until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed.

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