Introduction
Cooking rice can often be a challenge, even for experienced cooks. From burnt rice to undercooked rice, there are a lot of ways to mess it up. But what if we tell you there’s an easier, more convenient, and foolproof method for cooking rice? Yes, it exists, and it’s using a microwave.
Microwave rice is becoming increasingly popular because it is simple and quick. Plus, it requires less cleanup, making it the perfect solution for busy people. In this article, we will share how to cook perfect rice using a microwave.
Quick and Easy Rice: Make Delicious Microwave Rice in Minutes
Using a microwave to cook rice is not only convenient, but it also offers some benefits. One of the advantages is the short cooking time. With a microwave, you can cook rice in a fraction of the time it takes on the stove. Microwave rice also requires less water, which means that the rice grains don’t need to be soaked for long periods.
You can cook different types of rice in a microwave like Basmati, Jasmine, or any other kind you like. Also, most microwavable rice brands can be cooked in a microwave.
5 Simple Steps for Perfect Rice Using Microwave Method
Cooking rice in a microwave is not just about microwaving the rice and water. There are five essential steps to follow:
Step 1: Measure Water and Rice
Making perfect rice starts with getting the right measurements. The general rule is to use twice the amount of water to the amount of rice you are cooking. So, if you are using one cup of rice, add two cups of water.
Step 2: Seasoning
Season your rice with salt or any other seasonings of your choice. You can use stock instead of the water for more flavor, but make sure it is hot.
Step 3: Microwave
Once you have your water, rice, and seasonings, put it in a microwave-safe bowl, cover with a lid, and cook on high for 10-15 minutes. The cooking time will depend on your microwave power and the amount of rice you are cooking.
Step 4: Rest
After the microwaving, do not open the lid right away; let your rice rest for a few minutes. This will help to steam the rice, resulting in perfect fluffiness.
Step 5: Fluff
The final step is to fluff the rice using a fork. Gently move it around the bowl to separate the grains.
Microwave Magic: Foolproof Ways of Making Rice at Home
Apart from the basic method, there are other variations of cooking rice in the microwave that you can try.
Using a Rice Cooker
If you have a microwave rice cooker, use it to cook rice.
Cooking Rice with Stock
You could substitute water with stock for extra flavor.
Cooking Rice with Vegetables
Adding vegetables to your rice gives it a unique flavor. Add chopped onions, carrots or peas.
Say Goodbye to Stovetop Rice: Cook Instant Rice in the Microwave
Instant rice is becoming popular because it’s easier to prepare. You can cook instant rice in the microwave by following these simple steps:
Step 1: Measure Rice and Water
For instant rice, the ratio of water to rice is usually 1:1.
Step 2: Season to Taste
Add your seasonings of choice, such as salt or butter, to the rice and water mixture.
Step 3: Microwave
Put the rice and water mixture in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover it with a lid and cook on high for 10 minutes.
Step 4: Fluff
After it’s done, let it rest for 2 minutes before fluffing it with a fork.
Rice Made Simple: Mastering Microwave Rice in 3 Different Ways
Here are three different ways you can cook rice in a microwave:
Cooking Rice without Measuring Utensils
If you do not have a measuring cup, there is still an easy way to get perfect rice. Add one part rice and two parts water in a deep bowl and microwave for 12 to 15 minutes.
Cooking Different Types of Rice
Different types of rice require different amounts of water and cooking times, but all of them can be cooked in the microwave.
Cooking Rice in Bulk
If you are cooking rice for a crowd or meal prepping, cook the rice in the microwave in bulk and store it in the fridge to use throughout the week.
Heat up Your Rice Game: Cooking Gourmet Microwavable Rice
It’s possible to cook gourmet microwavable rice with simple ingredients and some creativity. Here are some recipe suggestions:
Curry Rice
Add curry powder and coconut milk to the rice and serve it with your favorite curry.
Coconut Rice
Add one cup of coconut milk and one cup of water, a pinch of salt, and let it cook.
Wild Rice Pilaf
Cook wild rice and chop vegetables to add to create a flavorful pilaf.
Conclusion
Cooking rice in the microwave is the perfect solution for busy people who want a quick and easy meal. By following the steps and methods discussed above, anyone can cook perfect and fluffy rice. Using the microwave method also offers customization for individual preferences. So, it’s time to say goodbye to the old way of cooking rice, and hello to the quick and easy microwave method.