A rice cooker takes the guesswork out of cooking rice by managing heat and timing for you. Once you learn the water ratio and the basic buttons, you can make consistent rice with almost no attention.
What you'll need
- Rice cooker
- Measuring cup
- Rice
- Water
Step by step
- Measure the riceUse the cup that came with the cooker, since it is often smaller than a standard measuring cup. Add the rice to the inner pot, not directly into the machine.
- Rinse the riceRinse white rice in the inner pot or a strainer until the water runs clearer. This reduces stickiness and gives cleaner-tasting grains.
- Add water to the lineFill with water to the marked line that matches your number of rice cups, or use roughly a one-to-one ratio for most white rice. Brown rice needs a little more water.
- Seat the pot and close the lidWipe the outside of the inner pot dry, set it into the cooker so it sits flat, and close the lid. A wet outer pot can affect heating.
- Select the setting and startChoose the white or brown rice setting if available, then press start or cook. The cooker switches to warm automatically when done.
- Let it rest, then fluffLeave the lid closed for about 10 minutes after it finishes, then fluff with the paddle. Resting lets the moisture even out.
Handy tips
- Keep the included measuring cup with the machine so your ratios stay consistent.
- The keep-warm setting is fine for an hour or two, but rice dries out if left much longer.
- Add a small amount of oil or a pinch of salt before cooking for a little extra flavor.
Heads up
- Steam escaping the vent is very hot, so keep hands and face away when opening the lid.
FAQ
How much water do I use in a rice cooker?
For most white rice, follow the fill lines inside the pot, which are usually close to a one-to-one rice-to-water ratio. Brown and other whole grains need more water and a longer setting.
Why is my rice sticking to the bottom?
A light layer sometimes forms and is normal. To reduce it, rinse the rice first, let it rest before opening, and avoid scraping the pot while it is still hot.
Can I cook other grains in a rice cooker?
Many cookers handle quinoa, oats, and other grains, but you will need to adjust the water amount and cooking time for each. Check your model's manual for guidance.