How to Make Brown Rice

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This foolproof stovetop method makes perfectly cooked, fluffy brown rice every time. No rice cookers or soaking needed.

Prep Time10

Cook Time45

Total Time55

Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: Asian

Keyword: Brown Rice, How to Cook Brown Rice

Servings: servings

Rinse 1 cup long-grain brown rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and improves texture.
In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, 2 1/2 cups water, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1 tablespoon salted butter (optional). Stir to combine.
Bring to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, cover with a lid and reduce the heat to low.
Cook over low heat for 45 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender. Do not lift the lid during cooking.
Remove saucepan from heat and let rice sit, covered, for 10 minutes to finish steaming.
Fluff rice with a fork and serve warm.

Butter can be added to give a little flavor from the fat and keep the rice from sticking. You can also replace it with olive oil.
For Short-Grain Brown Rice (e.g., brown sushi rice, sweet brown rice): Use 2 to 2 1/4 cups of water per 1 cup of rice. Cook for about 45–50 minutes, plus 10 minutes resting.
For Medium-Grain Brown Rice (e.g., Calrose brown rice): Use 2 1/4 cups water per 1 cup of rice and cook for 45 minutes, followed by a 10-minute steam.