Description
This simple brown rice recipe is one of those kitchen basics that makes healthy eating easier. Rinsing the rice every time gives you better texture and flavor, and once you’ve mastered it, you’ll always have a hearty base ready for fast, nourishing meals. Note that 1 cup of dried rice makes about 4 servings cooked.
Ingredients
Units
- 1 cup brown rice
- 2 1/2 cups water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (optional)
Instructions
Rice Cooker Method (Recommended)
- Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer under cool water for 30–60 seconds.
- Add rice, water, and salt to your rice cooker. Select the Brown Rice setting. (Always follow your rice cooker’s instructions and use the measuring cup that comes with it. Rice cookers use specific cup sizes and ratios.)
- When it switches to Warm, let sit for 10 minutes. Fluff and serve.
- Cool rice and refrigerate within 1 hour. Store up to 4 days. Reheat until steaming hot and do not reheat more than once.
Stovetop Method
- Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer under cool water for 30–60 seconds.
- Add rice, water, and salt to a pot and bring to a boil.
- Reduce to low, cover, and simmer 40–45 minutes.
- Remove from heat, rest 10 minutes, then fluff and serve.
- Cool rice and refrigerate within 1 hour. Store up to 4 days. Reheat until steaming hot and do not reheat more than once.
Instant Pot Method
- Rinse the rice under cool water for 30–60 seconds.
- Add rice, water, and salt to the Instant Pot.
- Seal the lid and set to Pressure Cook – High – 22 minutes.
- Let pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release the rest. Fluff and serve.
- Cool rice and refrigerate within 1 hour. Store up to 4 days. Reheat until steaming hot and do not reheat more than once.
Notes
Brown rice needs more water and a longer cook time than white rice, so don’t substitute it without adjusting the recipe.
Always rinse for 30–60 seconds to remove excess starch and improve flavor.
Follow your rice cooker’s instructions and use the measuring cup it comes with.
Portion size still matters: Brown rice is more filling, but it’s best paired with protein, vegetables, and healthy fats for a balanced meal.