If you’ve ever ended up with overcooked, mushy brown rice or undercooked dry rice, you know how tricky it can be to cook perfectly. But with these simple tips, you can make fluffy, tender brown rice every time. Whether you plan to use it as a side dish, in salads, or in bowls, learning how to cook brown rice is a kitchen skill worth mastering.
The Benefits of Brown Rice
Brown rice is a healthier alternative to white rice. It is the whole-grain rice with only the inedible outer hull removed, unlike white rice which has undergone significant processing to remove the bran and germ layers that contain the nutrients.
Nutritional Benefits
The bran layer of the brown rice contains several nutrients including fiber, B vitamins, iron, phosphorus, potassium, zinc, and magnesium. It is rich in antioxidants and can improve blood sugar control and heart health. A cup of cooked brown rice gives you 3.5g of fiber, 7g of protein, and 0.44mg of manganese. It is also low in fat, making it a perfect healthy choice for weight watchers.
Disease Prevention
Brown rice has been shown to help prevent several chronic diseases. The high fiber content of brown rice can lower the risk of developing type 2 diabetes by improving insulin sensitivity. It can also reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke, and lower the levels of bad cholesterol in the body. The antioxidants in brown rice can protect against cancer and cataracts.
Choosing the Right Brown Rice
Brown rice has become a popular alternative to white rice, thanks to its numerous health benefits and rich, nutty flavor. There are several varieties of brown rice, each with its unique taste and texture. Here’s a rundown of the different types of brown rice:
Long-grain Brown Rice
Long-grain brown rice is the most common type of brown rice, with grains that are longer and thinner than other varieties. It has a chewy texture and a nutty flavor, making it perfect for stews, casseroles, and salads.
Short-grain Brown Rice
Short-grain brown rice has a plump, round grain and is stickier than long-grain brown rice. It’s often used in dishes that require a sticky texture, such as sushi rolls and rice pudding.
Basmati Brown Rice
Basmati brown rice has a long, slender grain with a distinct aroma and flavor. It’s commonly used in Indian and Middle Eastern cuisine, where it’s paired with flavorful spices and herbs.
Jasmine Brown Rice
Jasmine brown rice has a soft, delicate texture and a subtle floral aroma. It’s a popular choice for Thai and Vietnamese dishes, where it’s used as a base for curries, stir-fries, and salads.
Preparing Brown Rice Before Cooking
Brown rice is a healthier alternative to white rice, and it’s easy to prepare. However, before you start cooking, it’s essential to prepare the rice to ensure that it cooks perfectly. Here are some tips to prepare brown rice before cooking:
Rinse Brown Rice Before Cooking
Rinsing the brown rice is essential before cooking. This process helps to remove dirt, debris, and excess starch that clings to the grains. It also helps to improve its texture and prevent it from becoming sticky or mushy. To rinse the rice, place it in a fine-mesh strainer and run cool water over it until the water runs clear. Drain the rice and let it sit in the strainer for 30 minutes to allow the excess water to drain.
Soak Brown Rice Before Cooking
Soaking brown rice before cooking can help to improve its texture and make it cook faster. The best way to soak brown rice is to let it sit in a bowl of water for at least 30 minutes. You can also soak it overnight if you have the time. Soaking the rice helps to soften the grains and remove phytic acid, which can make it harder for your body to absorb nutrients from the rice. If you plan to soak the rice overnight, make sure to replace the water with fresh water before cooking.
Proper Water to Rice Ratio
The water to rice ratio is crucial for cooking brown rice perfectly. The general rule of thumb is to use two cups of water for each cup of rice. However, this may vary depending on the type of brown rice you’re using. Short-grain brown rice requires less water than long-grain brown rice. So, make sure to follow the instructions on the package or adjust the proportions based on your preference.
How to Cook Brown Rice Perfectly
Brown rice is a staple in many households, but it can be a bit tricky to cook perfectly. Follow these simple tips to get perfectly cooked brown rice every time.
Tip #1: Rinse the Rice
Before cooking brown rice, it’s important to rinse it to remove any excess starch. This will help prevent clumping and ensure that each grain cooks evenly. Simply put the rice in a fine mesh strainer and rinse it under cool running water for about 30 seconds.
Tip #2: Use the Right Ratio of Water to Rice
For perfect brown rice, you’ll want to use a 2:1 ratio of water to rice. So, for every cup of rice, you’ll need two cups of water. This will give you a nice, fluffy texture.
Tip #3: Bring the Water to a Boil
After rinsing the rice, add it to a pot with the correct amount of water and bring it to a boil over high heat. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid, and let it simmer for 45-50 minutes. Be sure not to lift the lid while it’s cooking – this will let out steam and can result in undercooked rice.
Tip #4: Let the Rice Rest
After the rice is done cooking, turn off the heat and let it sit for at least 10 minutes. This will allow the rice to absorb any remaining water and become perfectly cooked.
By following these simple tips, you’ll be able to cook perfect brown rice every time. Now that you know how to cook brown rice perfectly, try using it as a base for stir-fries, Buddha bowls, or as a side dish to your favorite protein.
Storing Cooked Brown Rice
Learning how to store cooked brown rice properly can save you both time and money. Luckily, it’s easy to do using these simple tips:
1. Let It Cool
Before storing cooked brown rice, it needs to cool down to room temperature. This prevents bacteria from growing, which can cause foodborne illnesses. Let it sit for about 30 minutes or until it’s no longer piping hot.
2. Store in an Airtight Container
After the brown rice has cooled, put it in an airtight container. This can be a reusable container, a plastic bag, or even a jar with a tight-fitting lid. If using a bag or jar, press as much air out as possible before sealing to keep the rice fresh longer.
3. Keep in the Fridge or Freezer
Brown rice should be stored in the fridge or freezer to keep it fresh. When stored properly, cooked brown rice can last up to four days in the fridge and up to six months in the freezer. Make sure to label the container with the storage date to keep track of its freshness.
4. Reheat Properly
To reheat cooked brown rice, add a splash of water and microwave for one to two minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, add a drizzle of oil to a pan and heat the rice on low until warmed. Avoid letting the rice sit at room temperature for too long before reheating to prevent bacterial growth.
5. Use Leftover Brown Rice for Scrumptious Meals
Leftover brown rice is a handy addition to many dishes. Turn it into a stir fry, add it to a salad, or use it as a tasty base for stuffed peppers. With a little creativity, you can enjoy a delicious and healthy meal using leftover brown rice.
Creative Ways to Serve Brown Rice
If you’re looking to add more variety to your meals or just want to try something new, don’t just settle for plain brown rice! Experiment with different flavors and ingredients to create unique and delicious dishes that will make you forget you’re even eating healthy.
Mushroom and Herb Brown Rice Risotto
Switch up your usual rice side dish with this creamy risotto recipe that’s full of earthy mushroom flavor and savory herbs. Use vegetable broth to keep it vegan, or add chicken broth for a heartier option.
- Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked brown rice
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1/2 cup vegetable or chicken broth
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add mushrooms and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add onion and garlic, and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes. Add rice and stir to combine.
- Pour in wine and stir until absorbed. Gradually add broth, stirring frequently, until rice is tender and creamy, about 20 minutes.
- Stir in mushrooms, parsley, thyme, and Parmesan cheese (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Brown Rice and Black Bean Burrito Bowls
This easy and filling recipe is perfect for meal prep or a quick dinner. Customize your bowl with your favorite toppings like avocado, salsa, or sour cream.
- Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked brown rice
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and diced
- 1 clove minced garlic
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion, jalapeño, and garlic, and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Add black beans, tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper, and stir to combine. Cook for 5 minutes until heated through.
- Serve over brown rice with your favorite toppings.
Coconut Curry Brown Rice
This fragrant and exotic rice dish will transport your taste buds to the tropics. It’s also vegan and gluten-free!
- Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked brown rice
- 1 can full-fat coconut milk
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- 1 tbsp curry powder
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Instructions:
- In a large saucepan, heat coconut milk, onion, garlic, curry powder, turmeric, cumin, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using) over medium heat. Stir until well combined.
- Bring mixture to a simmer. Add cooked rice and stir to combine.
- Cook for 15 minutes until rice is heated through and sauce has thickened.
- Add lime juice and cilantro, and stir to combine.
Enjoy Perfect Brown Rice Every Time!
Thank you for taking the time to read our tips on how to cook perfect brown rice. We hope that you found them helpful and easy to follow. Remember that the key to great brown rice is to use the right amount of water, soak the rice beforehand, and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. With these simple tips, you’ll be able to enjoy perfect brown rice in no time. Don’t forget to check back in for more easy and delicious recipes!
Cook Perfect Brown Rice with these Simple Tips
Ingredients
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup brown rice
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons butter optional
Instructions
- Measure the rice and rinse it in a fine mesh sieve until the water runs clear.
- Soak the rice in water for at least 1 hour or up to 8 hours. Drain well.
- In a medium saucepan, bring the water and salt to a boil. Add the rice and stir once.
- Reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan tightly with a lid. Cook for 30 minutes without removing the lid.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 10 minutes.
- Uncover the saucepan and fluff the rice with a fork. Stir in butter, if desired, and serve hot.
