How to Make Brown Rice in the Microwave

Brown rice is a nutritious and delicious alternative to white rice, known for its higher fiber content and nutty flavor. Cooking brown rice in the microwave is a convenient way to prepare this healthy grain without needing a rice cooker or stovetop. Here’s a step-by-step guide to achieving perfect brown rice in your microwave:

Ingredients:

1 cup of brown rice
2 cups of water
Pinch of salt (optional)

Equipment:

Microwave-safe bowl with a lid
Fork

Step 1: Rinse the Brown Rice Before cooking, rinse the brown rice under cold water in a fine-mesh sieve or colander. This helps remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming sticky during cooking.

Step 2: Combine Rice and Water Transfer the rinsed brown rice into a microwave-safe bowl. Add 2 cups of water to the bowl. If desired, add a pinch of salt for seasoning. Stir briefly to distribute the rice evenly in the water.

Step 3: Microwave Cooking Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or microwave-safe plate. Make sure the lid allows steam to escape to prevent overflow. Place the bowl in the microwave.

Step 4: Cooking Time Microwave the rice on high power for 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, reduce the power to 50% and microwave for another 20-25 minutes. The exact time may vary depending on your microwave’s wattage and the desired tenderness of the rice.

Step 5: Let it Rest Once the microwave cooking is complete, let the rice sit covered for 5 minutes. This allows the steam to continue cooking the rice and ensures even texture.

Step 6: Fluff and Serve After resting, uncover the bowl and fluff the rice gently with a fork. Serve the fluffy brown rice as a nutritious side dish or as a base for your favorite recipes.

Tips for Success:

Use a microwave-safe bowl with enough room for the rice to expand during cooking.
Adjust the cooking time based on your microwave’s power and the desired texture of the rice.
For extra flavor, consider using broth instead of water or adding herbs and spices before cooking.

Cooking brown rice in the microwave is quick, easy, and yields perfectly fluffy grains every time. Enjoy this wholesome staple in a fraction of the time it takes to cook on the stove, making it ideal for busy weeknights or any time you crave a healthy meal.