You love brown rice. You think it’s the best thing in the world. But how much longer does it take to cook brown rice when you are craving them?
Due to its intact bran layer, brown rice takes longer to cook than white rice, typically 45 minutes on the stovetop. Personal preference and the rice-to-water ratio will determine the cooking time.
n this post, we’re going to teach you how to cook brown rice – and it will be easy! You don’t need any special equipment, just a pot, and some water.
Contents
Why does it take longer to cook brown rice?
It takes longer to cook brown rice than white rice because its outer layer, the bran, remains intact. Rice grains are surrounded by a protective layer of bran. It is rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, but also increases cooking time.
The bran layer is more difficult to soften than the rest of the rice and requires more water and a longer cooking time. In addition, brown rice contains more starch than white rice, which extends the cooking time.
Due to this, brown rice requires approximately 45 minutes to cook on the stovetop, while white rice can be prepared in approximately 20 minutes.
Read Also: What temperature to cook brown rice?
What is brown rice?
Because its outer layer, the bran, remains intact, brown rice takes longer to cook than white rice. The bran is a protective layer that encompasses each rice grain. It is rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, but it increases cooking time.
The bran layer is harder than the rest of the rice and requires additional water and a longer cooking time in order to become softer. Furthermore, brown rice contains more starch than white rice, which contributes to its longer cooking time.
As a result, brown rice requires approximately 45 minutes to cook on the stovetop, whereas white rice can be prepared in approximately 20 minutes.
How to cook brown rice in less than 30 minutes?
It is possible to cook brown rice in less than 30 minutes, but a different method than the traditional stovetop method is required. Here are two quick methods for cooking brown rice:
Pressure cooker
The pressure cooker is one of the quickest methods for cooking brown rice. Rice can be cooked in as little as 10 to 12 minutes thanks to the high pressure inside the pressure cooker. Just add rice and water to the rice cooker, close the lid, and turn on the heat. Once the pressure has been reached, reduce the heat to low and cook for the specified time.
Microwave
Microwaving brown rice is another quick cooking method. In a microwave-safe dish, combine the rice and water, cover with a lid or microwave-safe plate, and cook on high for 15 to 18 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time, stir the rice.
Instant Pot
Similar to pressure cooking, brown rice can be prepared in an Instant Pot in just 22 to 25 minutes. Add rice and water to the Instant Pot, seal the lid, press the “rice” button, and wait until the rice is cooked.
It is important to remember that these methods may vary depending on the pressure cooker or microwave you use and the type of brown rice you are preparing. It may take a few attempts to discover the optimal time and method for you.
In addition, it is essential to note that these methods may not produce the same texture and flavor as the traditional stovetop method.
How to cook brown rice?
Cooking brown rice is a simple process, here’s a basic recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup brown rice
- 2 1/2 cups water
- Salt (optional)
Instructions:
- Rinse the rice in a fine mesh strainer under cold running water until the water runs clear.
- In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil over high heat.
- Once the water is boiling, add the rice and stir.
- Add salt, if desired.
- Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid.
- Simmer the rice for 45 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
- Remove the pot from heat and let the rice sit, covered, for an additional 10 minutes.
- Fluff the rice with a fork and serve.
Alternatively, you can use a rice cooker, pressure cooker, or instant pot with slight adjustments on the recipe. Make sure to check the cooking instructions of the specific method you are using.
Tips for cooking brown rice
Following are the cooking instructions for brown rice:
Rice-to-Water Ratio
The rice-to-water ratio is the primary factor to consider when cooking brown rice. A general rule of thumb is to use a rice-to-water ratio of 1:2.5.
This means that 2.5 cups of water are required for every cup of brown rice. Depending on the type of rice and your personal preference, this proportion may need to be adjusted. If you prefer your rice to be on the softer side, for instance, you may wish to add more water.
Cooking Time
After determining the appropriate rice-to-water ratio, you must consider the cooking time. Typically, brown rice takes about 45 minutes to cook on the stove.
This time can vary depending on the type of rice and the pot or rice cooker used. When using a pressure cooker, for instance, the cooking time will be reduced.
Temperature
Additionally, the temperature of the water influences the cooking time of brown rice. Before adding the rice to boiling water in a pot on the stove, the water should be brought to a boil.
After adding the rice, reduce the heat to a low simmer and cover the pot. This will ensure that the rice cooks evenly without burning. When using a rice cooker, the temperature is automatically controlled.
Rice Type
Depending on the type of brown rice, the cooking time can also vary. For example, brown rice with shorter grains will cook faster than brown rice with longer grains.
If you’re unfamiliar with the type of brown rice you’re using, you should check the package instructions for cooking time and temperature recommendations.
Personal Preference
Lastly, the brown rice cooking time will also depend on your personal preference. Some individuals prefer their rice on the softer side, while others prefer it more al dente.
If you are unsure of how you prefer your rice, it is best, to begin with, the recommended cooking time and then adjust as necessary.
Read Also: Do You Cook Brown Rice The Same As White?
Conclusion
Brown rice takes longer to cook than white rice because the bran layer remains intact. However, by taking into account the rice-to-water ratio, cooking time, temperature, rice type, and personal preference, you can ensure that your brown rice is always cooked to perfection. After a bit of trial and error, brown rice preparation will be a breeze.
FAQs |
Here are a few relevant faqs
does brown rice take longer to cook?
Yes, brown rice generally takes longer to cook than white rice. This is because brown rice retains its outer bran layer and germ, which contains fiber and nutrients that require more time to soften.
On average, brown rice takes about 45-50 minutes to cook, whereas white rice typically takes around 20 minutes.
What is brown rice to water ratio stovetop?
The brown rice to water ratio for stovetop cooking is usually 1:2.5, meaning one cup of brown rice requires 2.5 cups of water.
However, this ratio may vary depending on the specific type and brand of brown rice being used, so it is important to check the package instructions or adjust the ratio based on personal preference and experience.
why does brown rice take longer to cook?
Brown rice takes longer to cook than white rice because it retains its outer bran layer and germ, which contains fiber and nutrients that require more time to soften. The bran layer and germ also make brown rice more dense and chewy, which can impact the cooking time.
how to make brown rice cook faster
To make brown rice cook faster, you can soak it in water for at least 30 minutes before cooking, use a pressure cooker or cook it in a larger pot with more water.
is brown rice harder than white?
Yes, brown rice is generally harder than white rice due to its higher fiber content and outer bran layer.