As rice farmers in California, we have learned the tried-and-true method of cooking rice. One type of rice that has been rumored to be difficult to cook correctly is brown rice. Brown rice is actually a super simple dish to get correct; the common problem is that most cooks are using the same water ratio as white rice. Not only is the rice to water ratio different but the cook time is usually doubled.
In this recipe blog, we'll guide you on how to cook brown rice to perfection, using our expertise gained from years of cultivating, processing, (and eating!) our own rice. We will be using a stovetop as our main method of cooking brown rice but will also include other methods so you can enjoy your rice multiple ways!
With Chico Rice's commitment to small-batch freshness and sustainable farming practices, you can trust that you're getting the best quality rice for your culinary creations.
Health Benefits of Brown Rice
Before we explain to you how to cook brown rice, let's take a moment to appreciate the health benefits of brown rice. Unlike white rice, brown rice retains its outer bran layer and germ, making it a rich source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
Brown rice can also promote heart health, aid in digestion, and provide sustained energy throughout the day. If you are looking to make your meals healthier, switching out your starches or grains for brown rice is a great way to add nutrients that your body needs.
What Dishes Go Well with Brown Rice
Brown rice's nutty flavor and hearty texture pair well with a variety of dishes. It's a versatile grain that can elevate both savory and sweet recipes. From stir-fry and grain bowls to pilafs and stuffed peppers, the possibilities are endless.
Once you've mastered the art of cooking brown rice, explore some of our top picks featuring Chico Rice’s Brown Milled California Japonica Rice, such as Sausage and Rice Gumbo and Autumn Bounty Bowls. Brown rice also serves as a nutritious side dish, to foods like grilled vegetables, roasted chicken, or seared tofu.
Water to Rice Ratio
As we mentioned earlier, the water ratio for brown rice is one of the main reasons people may find this grain difficult to cook. Brown rice has a ration of 1 cup of rice to 2 cups of water. To make sure you get the perfect texture for brown rice rinse it until the water runs clear, then add your rice to the correct amount of gently boiling water in a medium saucepan with a tight lid.
How Long Does Brown Rice Take to Cook?
Another essential aspect to consider when learning how to cook brown rice is cook time. Brown rice takes twice the amount of time it takes to cook white rice. Once you have added your brown rice to the boiling water, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 40 minutes. It's very important to not lift the lid while it cooks to ensure even cooking and to lock in the steam. After 40 minutes, remove the pot from the heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes.
Brown Rice Texture
After you rice has sat for 5 minutes you can take the lid off and fluff the rice with a fork. If you are noticing your rice is gooey and super clumped together than you may have overcooked your rice. If the texture is crunchy and not moist then you haven’t cooked it long enough. If you followed all of the correct steps for cooking brown rice, then your rice should be fluffy and the grains should separate.
How to Cook Brown Rice in a Rice Cooker
When cooking with a rice cooker, your rice to water ratio will stay the same as when you cook on a stovetop, which is 1 cup of brown rice to 2 cups of water. Most rice cookers have their own sensor to determine when the rice is done cooking. Learning how to cook brown rice in a rice cooker is simple and yields consistently perfect results. After the cooking cycle is done, let it sit for 5 minutes with the lid closed. Then fluff the rice and enjoy!
How to Cook Brown Rice in an Instant Pot
When cooking with an Instant Pot the rice to water ratio will be different. You will only need 1 cup of rice and 1 cup of water. The reason for less water is because not as much water evaporates in an Instant Pot. Add everything into the Instant Pot, close the lid and seal the valve. Mastering how to cook brown rice in an Instant Pot also involves precise timing, cook the rice on high pressure for 22-24 minutes for your rice to have the correct fluffy texture. For a natural release let the pot sit for 10 minutes, for a quick release turn the valve to vent the steam. Take the lid off, fluff the rice and enjoy!
How Long Does Rice Leftovers Last?
Rice makes great leftovers! If you haven’t gobbled it all up or you like prepping your meals for the week, brown rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four to five days.
Before putting your rice in the fridge, ensure that it is no longer steaming and has cooled down. Also, make sure that your rice has not sat out longer than two hours. Rice is moist and if it has been sitting out for too long it can breed bacteria.
If you want your rice to last longer you can freeze cooked brown rice for two months, ensuring you always have a nutritious base for quick and convenient meals.
Cooking brown rice is a simple yet rewarding cooking adventure, especially when using Chico Rice's Brown Milled California Japonica Rice. By following our steps on how to cook brown rice, you can enjoy a wholesome and delicious meal that nourishes both body and soul.
From our family farm to your table, we're proud to provide you with rice that's grown, milled, and packaged with care. So now with confidence, go ahead, cook up a delicious batch of brown rice!
Recipe: How to Cook Brown Rice
Prep Time: 3 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 48 minutes
Servings: 4
What You Will Need
- 1 cup of Chico Rice Brown Milled California Japonica Rice
- 2 cups of water
- 1 medium saucepan with a tight lid.
- Your favorite butter or season (this is optional)
Instructions
- Rinse 1 cup of Chico Rice's fresh Brown Milled California Japonica Rice until the water runs clear.
- Add the rinsed rice to 2 cups of gently boiling water in a medium saucepan with a tight lid.
- Simmer on low heat for 40 minutes without lifting the lid.
- Remove the saucepan from heat, keep it covered, and let the rice stand for an additional 5 minutes.
- Fluff the rice with a fork, season it with butter or your favorite herbs and spices, and savor the fresh, flavorful taste of Chico Rice.
