The Kitchen · Building Blocks
Rice Ratios
Basic water-to-rice proportions for common rice varieties.
The Basics
Rice absorbs water as it cooks, but the amount needed varies by rice type and cooking method. The ratios below are starting points for cooking rice in a covered pot on the stovetop.
Rule of Thumb
White long-grain rice: approximately 1½ cups water per 1 cup rice. Jasmine rice: approximately 1¼ cups water per 1 cup rice. Brown rice: approximately 2 cups water per 1 cup rice.
Good to Know
Rinsing rice removes excess surface starch and can help produce fluffier grains. Keep the pot covered while cooking and let the rice rest for 5–10 minutes after removing it from the heat. Check package instructions, since varieties and processing methods differ.