How To Cook Rice in a Microwave
Learn How To Cook Rice in a Microwave with this helpful tutorial from Zip Tutorials.
Created By: 
Zip Tutorials
Published on March 13, 2025
7 Steps
Step 1:
Choose the Right Rice and Container
Pick your rice—long-grain white rice like basmati or jasmine works best for this method, though medium-grain or brown rice can work too with adjustments. Grab a microwave-safe bowl or container with a lid; it should be at least twice the volume of your rice and water combined since rice expands. A glass bowl with a microwave-safe lid or plate to cover works great.
Step 2:
Measure Rice and Water
For every cup of white rice, you’ll need about two cups of water; for brown rice, bump it up to two and a half cups since it’s thirstier. Start by pouring one cup of rice into your bowl, then add the corresponding water. Precision matters here, so use a measuring cup to keep the ratio right for fluffy results.
Step 3:
Rinse the Rice (Optional)
If you’ve got a minute, rinse your rice to remove excess starch, which can make it less sticky. Pour water over the rice in the bowl, swish it around with your hand until the water gets cloudy, then carefully drain it out. Repeat once or twice until the water’s mostly clear, then add your cooking water from Step 2. This step’s skippable if you’re in a rush.
Step 4:
Season and Prep for Cooking
Add a pinch of salt to the water for flavor—about half a teaspoon per cup of rice works. You could also toss in a dab of butter or a splash of oil if you like it richer, but that’s optional. Stir it gently to mix, then loosely cover the bowl with its lid or a microwave-safe plate, leaving a small gap for steam to escape.
Step 5:
Microwave on High Power
Place the bowl in the microwave and set it to high power. For white rice, cook for 10 to 12 minutes; brown rice needs 20 to 25 minutes due to its tougher texture. Start with the lower end of the time range and check it—microwaves vary in strength, so you might need to tweak it. Don’t open the door too soon; let it build steam.
Step 6:
Let It Rest
Once the timer’s up, don’t rush to uncover it. Keep the bowl in the microwave or on the counter, still covered, for another 5 minutes. This resting period lets the rice finish absorbing water evenly, turning out fluffy instead of mushy. Resist the urge to peek early—it’s worth the wait.
Step 7:
Fluff and Serve
Carefully remove the hot bowl (use oven mitts if it’s steamy), lift the lid, and grab a fork. Gently fluff the rice to separate the grains and release any extra steam. Check the texture—if it’s too wet, zap it for another minute or two; if it’s perfect, scoop it out and serve. You’ve got microwave rice ready to go!
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