Microwave Rice
Microwave rice is a quick and convenient dish that delivers soft, fluffy grains with a hint of buttery flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights, it pairs well with a variety of main courses and suits anyone looking for a simple side dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 2-quart deep casserole, combine 2 cups water, salt, and butter. Cover the dish.
- Microwave on High power for 5 minutes.
- Remove from microwave and add rice.
- Stir the mixture.
- Cover and microwave on 50% power for 18 to 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For perfectly fluffy rice, rinse the long grain rice before cooking to remove excess starch. If you want to enhance the flavor, consider using chicken or vegetable broth instead of water. You can also add herbs or spices like garlic powder or bay leaves to the water for additional flavor. If you prefer a richer taste, substitute the butter with olive oil or coconut oil.
Serving Suggestions
This microwave rice pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, stir-fried vegetables, or curries. For a complete meal, serve it alongside Lemon Cobbler for dessert. You can also mix in sautéed onions, peas, or bell peppers to add more flavor and nutrition. It’s a versatile base for many dishes, especially in vegetarian recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of water to the rice and microwave on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. You can also use the rice in fried rice or as a side for dishes like Green Rice.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave Rice contains roughly 542 calories, with 0g protein, 0g carbohydrates, and 60g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1744mg per serving (76% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but you will need to adjust the cooking time. Brown rice typically requires more water and a longer cooking time, so you may need to microwave it for an additional 10-15 minutes on 50% power. Make sure to check for doneness before serving.
What should I do if my rice is still hard after cooking?
If your rice is hard, it likely needs more water and cooking time. Try adding a couple of tablespoons of water, cover it, and microwave it on 50% power for an additional 5 minutes. Let it sit covered for a few minutes afterward to allow the steam to finish cooking the rice.
Can I add vegetables directly to the rice while cooking?
Yes, you can add quick-cooking vegetables like peas, diced bell peppers, or corn when you add the rice. However, denser vegetables like carrots or broccoli should be pre-cooked or added at the beginning with the water to ensure they are tender by the time the rice is done.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).