Rice timer
Rice cooking times on the stove
Times are for the absorption method: rinse the rice, add water, bring to a boil, then cover and lower the heat. Start the timer when you put the lid on.
Long-grain white rice – 18 minutes. Basmati – 12–15 minutes. Jasmine – 15 minutes. Brown rice – 40 minutes. Wild rice – 45 minutes. Quinoa – 15 minutes.
Do not skip the rest
When the timer rings, take the pan off the heat and leave the lid on for another 5 to 10 minutes. The steam finishes the top layer and the grains separate. Add a second, named timer for the rest so you do not have to watch the clock.
Rinse first for fluffier rice
Rinse white rice in a sieve under cold water until the water runs almost clear. It washes off loose starch, so the grains do not stick together. Sushi rice and risotto rice are the exceptions: their starch is what makes them creamy.
Questions
How long does white rice take to cook?
About 18 minutes covered on low heat after it comes to a boil, then 5–10 minutes of resting off the heat.
How long to cook brown rice?
Brown rice needs about 40 minutes on low heat with the lid on, then 10 minutes of rest.
How much water do I need for rice?
A common starting point is 1.5 cups of water per cup of long-grain white rice and 2 cups for brown rice. Follow the pack if it gives a ratio.