Figuring out how much rice to put in a rice cooker can be tricky, especially when using different types and brands of rice. The basic rule of thumb is to use a 1:1 rice to water ratio, but this can vary depending on the type of rice being cooked. Here are some quick tips to help determine how much rice to use:
White Rice
For regular long grain white rice, the standard rice to water ratio is 1:1. So for a 1.5 L rice cooker, you’ll want to use about 1.5 cups of uncooked rice. This will yield around 3 cups of cooked rice.
Brown Rice
Brown rice typically needs a bit more water than white rice. Use a 1:1.5 rice to water ratio. For a 1.5 L cooker, use about 1 cup of uncooked brown rice and 1.5 cups water.
Short Grain White Rice
Short grain rice like sushi rice requires a little less water than long grain. Use about 1.25 cups water for every 1 cup rice. For a 1.5 L cooker, use 1.2 cups rice and 1.5 cups water.
Basmati Rice
Basmati and other aromatic rices need less water too. Aim for a 1:1.25 rice to water ratio. So for a 1.5 L cooker, use about 1.2 cups basmati rice and 1.5 cups water.
Sticky or Glutinous Rice
Due to the higher starch content, sticky rice needs more water than regular white rice. Use at least a 1:1.25 ratio. For 1.5 L, use 1 cup sticky rice and 1.5 cups water.
Rice Porridge/Congee
For rice porridges, use a much higher water content, around 6-8 parts water to 1 part rice. For a 1.5 L cooker, use 1⁄4 cup rice and about 4 cups water.
Cooking Different Amounts of Rice
Many rice cookers come with rice cooker cups that designate the amount of rice to use. Here are some common rice cooker cup sizes and how much rice they generally hold:
| Cup Size | Uncooked Rice (cups) |
|---|---|
| 1 cup | 3/4 cup |
| 1.5 cups | 1 cup |
| 2 cups | 1 1/4 cups |
| 3 cups | 2 cups |
| 4 cups | 2 2/3 cups |
So for a typical 1.5 cup rice cooker, use 1 cup of uncooked rice. Adjust the water amount based on the rice variety.
Tips for Measuring Rice
Here are some tips when measuring out rice for the cooker:
- Use the provided rice cooker cup for measurements, or a standard liquid measuring cup
- Rinse the rice first to remove excess starch
- Allow rice to drain well before measuring
- Level off the rice in the cup; do not pack it down
- Use roughly the same size grains of rice for most accurate measurements
Factors Affecting Water Amount
Several factors can alter the ideal rice to water ratio, including:
- Rice freshness – Older, drier rice may need more water
- Grain size – Smaller grains like short rice need less water than longer basmati grains
- Cooking temperature – Higher heat may require more liquid to prevent drying out
- Altitude – At higher elevations water boils at lower temps, so you may need less water
- Rice cooker design – Some cookers boil off more liquid than others
To account for these factors, make adjustments to the water in small 1-2 Tbsp increments to find the right consistency for your cooker and preferences.
Common Rice to Water Ratios
Here is a table summarizing the typical rice to water ratios for common rice varieties:
| Rice Type | Rice to Water Ratio |
|---|---|
| Long grain white rice | 1:1 |
| Medium grain white rice | 1:1.25 |
| Short grain white rice | 1:1 to 1:1.25 |
| Brown rice | 1:1.5 |
| Basmati rice | 1:1.25 |
| Jasmine rice | 1:1.25 |
| Sticky or glutinous rice | 1:1.25 to 1:1.5 |
Rice Water Ratio by Weight
For more precise measurements, you can also calculate rice and water ratios by weight:
- Long grain white rice – 1 cup rice = 150g, so use 150g rice to 150mL water
- Medium grain rice – 1 cup = 180g, so use 180g rice to 225mL water
- Short grain rice – 1 cup = 200g, so use 200g rice to 250mL water
- Brown rice – 1 cup = 185g, so use 185g rice to 275mL water
Tips for Cooking Rice
Follow these tips for perfectly cooked rice every time:
- Rinse rice before cooking to remove excess starch
- Use a timer and allow rice to steam for 10-15 minutes after cooking finishes
- Do not lift the lid while rice is cooking
- Add a bit of butter or oil to the rice to reduce foaming and sticking
- Start with less water for firmer rice or more for softer rice
- Allow rice to rest 5-10 minutes before fluffing with a fork
Cooking Rice in Excess Water
Some people prefer to cook rice using the pasta method, with extra water that gets drained away. The steps include:
- Place rice in a pot or rice cooker and add about 6-8 cups water per 1 cup rice
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 7-8 minutes for white rice, 15-20 for brown
- Drain excess water through a colander or fine mesh strainer
- Return rice to pot, cover and let steam for 10-15 minutes
This releases more starch from the rice, so some people feel it makes the grains more separated and fluffy.
Cooking Rice in the Oven
You can also bake rice in the oven using an oven-safe dish:
- Preheat oven to 350°F
- Boil water in a kettle or pot
- Place 1 cup rice and 1 1/4 cups boiling water in baking dish
- Cover tightly with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes
- Remove from oven and let stand covered for 5-10 minutes
- Fluff with a fork before serving
Microwave Rice
It’s also possible to cook plain rice in the microwave. Here is one method:
- Place 1 cup rice with 1 1/2 cups water in a microwave-safe bowl
- Cover and microwave on high for 10 minutes
- Stir gently, then microwave on 50% power for another 10 minutes
- Allow to stand covered for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork
This tends to work best with white rice varieties. The 50% power helps prevent boiling over or uneven cooking.
Using a Rice Cooker
A rice cooker offers convenience and perfect rice every time. Here are some tips:
- Always use the provided rice cooker cup for measurements
- Rinse rice first to remove starch
- Fill water to the line matching the number of cups of rice
- Allow rice to steam for 10+ minutes after cooking completes
- Do not lift the lid during the cooking cycle
- Wipe down the cooker after each use
Quality rice cookers have sensors to adjust temperature and cooking time for different types and amounts of rice.
Reheating Leftover Rice
To reheat leftover rice, sprinkle with a bit of water before putting it in the microwave. This prevents the rice from drying out. Cover and microwave for 1-2 minutes until hot.
You can also reheat rice on the stovetop by placing it in a saucepan with 2-3 Tbsp water. Cover and heat over low, stirring occasionally, until piping hot.
Storing Cooked Rice
Cooked rice should be stored properly to prevent bacteria growth:
- Allow rice to fully cool before storing
- Store rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator
- Consume cooked rice within 3-5 days
- To freeze, place cooked rice in freezer bags or containers
- Thaw frozen rice in the refrigerator before reheating
Conclusion
Figuring out the right rice to water ratio is essential for perfectly cooked grains. Start with a 1:1 ratio for long grains and adjust from there based on rice variety, cooking method, and personal preference. Aim for 1 cup of uncooked rice for a standard 1.5 cup rice cooker. With the proper techniques and measurements, you’ll be making restaurant-quality rice at home in no time!
