How to Make the Perfect Microwave Rice from Scratch
American · Easy · 9 min · 2 servings
Perfectly fluffy white rice cooked entirely from scratch in the microwave without any special pouches or pre-cooked shortcuts. This quick microwave method delivers tender grains ready in under 10 minutes with minimal cleanup.
Why this recipe works
This Microwave Rice from Scratch recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 9 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 206 calories with 4g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 4 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 1 cup long grain white rice
- 2 cups water
- 0.5 tsp salt
- 1 tsp butter
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Combine Rice and Water
Add rice, water, salt, and butter to a large microwave-safe bowl. The bowl must be large enough to prevent boiling over, at least 2 quart capacity.
Step 2: First Microwave
Microwave on high uncovered for 5 minutes until the water begins to boil vigorously and absorb slightly into the rice.
Step 3: Finish and Rest
Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap and microwave on 50 percent power for 2 more minutes. Let stand covered for 2 minutes then fluff with a fork.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- long grain white rice → jasmine rice for a fragrant floral flavor
- butter → olive oil or skip entirely to keep it vegan
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Using too small a bowl causing the water to boil over in the microwave
- Skipping the resting period resulting in gummy unevenly cooked rice
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 206 calories, 4g protein, 45g carbs, 0g fat, 1g fiber.
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