Do you know how to cook jasmine rice in the microwave? It's a convenient and time-saving method that produces fluffy and aromatic results. If you're short on time or simply looking for an alternative to a rice cooker, the microwave method is perfect for you. In this guide, I'll show you how to achieve perfect jasmine rice every single time using a microwave oven.
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Ingredients and equipment
To get started, you'll need the following:
- 1 cup of jasmine rice
- 1 ½ cups of water
- Microwave-safe dish with a tight-fitting lid or plastic wrap
Step-by-step instructions
Cooking jasmine rice in the microwave is a quick and convenient method. Here's a step-by-step guide:
Rinse the rice
Rinsing jasmine rice is essential to remove excess starch and prevent it from becoming too sticky.
- Measure the Rice: Measure 1 cup of jasmine rice.
- Rinse: Place the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and rinse under cold water until the water runs clear. This step helps remove excess starch, ensuring a fluffy texture.
Prepare for cooking
Transfer the rinsed rice to a microwave-safe bowl or dish.
- Add Water: Pour 1 ½ cups of water into the bowl with the rice. The water ratio for jasmine rice is typically 1:1.5.
- Season (optional): If you want flavor in your rice, add a pinch of kosher salt for added flavor. I don't normally add seasoning to the rice. This totally depends on personal preference.
Cooking in the microwave
- Cover: Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap. If using plastic wrap, leave a small gap for steam to escape.
- Microwave: Place the bowl in the microwave oven. Microwave on high power for 10 minutes.
Let the rice rest
Allowing the rice to rest after cooking is crucial for the grains to absorb any remaining water and achieve the desired texture.
- Rest: After the initial cooking time, let the rice rest in the microwave (with the door closed) for an additional 10 minutes. This helps to finish cooking the rice without overcooking.
- Fluff: Remove the bowl from the microwave using oven mitts (watch out for steam; the bowl will be hot). Fluff the rice with a fork to separate it.
Common mistakes to avoid
Here are some common mistakes to avoid when cooking rice in the microwave:
Incorrect water ratio: Using too much or too little water can result in mushy or undercooked rice. It is very important to follow the recommended rice-to-water ratio, and do not forget to adjust slightly based on your microwave's power.
Not rinsing the rice: Skipping the rinsing step can lead to overly sticky rice due to excess starch. Rinsing helps with even cooking.
Overfilling the bowl: Using a bowl that is too small can cause the water to boil over and create a mess in the microwave. Use a large, microwave-safe bowl with enough space to accommodate the rice as it cooks and expands.
Not covering properly: If you fail to cover the bowl or cover it too tightly, it can affect the cooking process. Use a microwave-safe lid or plate that allows some steam to escape but still traps enough moisture for the rice to cook evenly.
Not letting the rice rest: Skipping the resting period after microwaving can result in rice that is not fully cooked or has an uneven texture. Let the rice sit in the microwave for at least 5 minutes after cooking to allow it to steam and finish cooking.
Avoid stirring: Please do not stir the rice early during microwaving. Stirring the rice too early can disrupt the cooking process and cause it to clump together. Please wait until the rice is fully cooked and has rested before fluffing it with a fork.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can cook perfectly cooked jasmine rice in the microwave every time!
Tips and variations
- Microwave wattage: Adjust the cooking time based on your microwave's wattage. For lower-wattage microwaves (like 700-watt microwaves), you may need to increase the cooking time slightly.
- Water ratio: For the best results, and depending on your microwave's power, you might need to adjust the water ratio slightly. If the rice is too dry, add a little more water next time. If it's too wet, reduce the water.
- Resting time: Don't skip the resting period. It allows the rice grains to settle and become fluffy.
- Add flavor: As I mentioned above, in addition to salt, you can also substitute some of the water with chicken broth and a teaspoon of oil or butter before cooking for extra flavor. Another great option is replacing some water with coconut milk for a richer flavor.
Serving suggestions
There are tons of dishes that pair well with jasmine rice, such as vibrant and flavorful stir-fries packed with fresh vegetables. Also, a variety of Asian-inspired dishes like sesame chicken, Mongolian beef, or home-style tofu.
Additionally, you can sprinkle chopped herbs, sesame seeds, etc, on jasmine rice for a lighter dish.
Benefits of cooking jasmine rice in the microwave
- Time-saving: Cooking rice in the microwave takes less time and is perfect for busy days.
- Less cleanup: Using a microwave-safe bowl means fewer dishes to wash.
- Consistent results: With the right water ratio and cooking time, you can achieve perfect rice every time!
How to cook jasmine rice in the microwave: final thoughts
Cooking jasmine rice in the microwave is a great alternative to traditional methods. It offers convenience without sacrificing flavor or texture. Whether you're making a side dish for dinner or preparing a base for your favorite stir-fry, this method ensures fluffy, aromatic jasmine rice with minimal effort.
Next time you're in a hurry, remember this quick and easy microwave method for cooking jasmine rice. It's a game-changer for anyone looking to simplify their cooking process while still enjoying a delicious, quality meal. Enjoy your perfectly cooked jasmine rice!
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