Kitchen| Uncooked rice | |
| Water | |
| Simmer, covered | |
| Makes about |
Ratios are for the stovetop with a tight-fitting lid. Package directions for a specific brand can differ slightly, and rice cookers usually need a little less water.
Rice to water ratio chart
| Rice (1 cup uncooked) | Water | Simmer | Cooked yield |
|---|
The method that works for most rice
- Rinse (jasmine, basmati, sushi rice) in a sieve until the water runs mostly clear.
- Boil the water with a pinch of salt, add the rice and stir once.
- Cover and simmer on the lowest heat for the time above. Don't lift the lid.
- Rest 10 minutes off the heat, still covered, then fluff with a fork.
Want the details, including how to fix rice that's gummy, crunchy or burnt on the bottom? Read how to cook perfect rice on the stove.
Make it foolproof
A basic rice cooker turns off by itself and keeps rice warm, which is perfect if you cook rice weekly. See rice cookers →
FAQ
What is the ratio of water to white rice?
For long-grain white rice on the stove, a common starting point is 2 cups of water per cup of rice. Rinsed jasmine and basmati need less, about 1½ cups.
How much rice per person?
About ⅓ cup of uncooked rice per person as a side dish, or ½ cup as a main. One cup of uncooked white rice makes about 3 cups cooked.
Should I rinse rice before cooking?
Rinsing removes surface starch so the grains stay separate. It is recommended for jasmine, basmati and sushi rice. Skip it for risotto, where you want the starch.
