I love days when I have a big container of cooked brown rice in the fridge. It’s a fantastic starting point for curries, stir fries, fried rice, and more, and its earthy, nutty flavor is even delicious on its own. Sometimes, I’ll toss it with a pinch of salt, top it with an egg, and call it breakfast.
Plus, it’s not only tasty; it’s good for you too! Brown rice is filled with fiber and other nutrients. When I have it on hand, tossing together a grain bowl for lunch or dinner takes minutes, so I’m less likely to reach for sweets or snacks throughout the day.
Rumor has it that cooking brown rice on the stove is tricky, but I’m here to tell you that it’s actually simple! This easy, foolproof cooking method yields perfect brown rice every time. You only need water, rice, olive oil, and a pot to try it, so say goodbye to mushy rice, and let’s get cooking!
This easy method will work for any type of brown rice, as long as it’s not an instant or quick-cooking variety. These products are more processed than typical brown rice, so their cooking times will vary. Once you’re ready to cook, follow these simple steps:
Once you have the cooked rice on hand, you’ll find all sorts of ways to use it! Add it to stir fries, serve it as a side dish with curry or chana masala, or swap it for the white rice in my cilantro lime rice recipe. I also use short grain brown rice to add texture to veggie burgers and vegan meatballs. It has a stickier texture than long grain brown rice, which is key for making extra-hearty patties that hold their shape in the oven, on the stove, and on the grill.
But most often, I use it as a base for healthy grain bowls. I call for it specifically in this buddha bowl, this adzuki bean bowl, and this mango ginger rice bowl, but you can also use it as a starting point for a simple, no-recipe grain bowl. Just add one (or more) item from each of these categories to turn plain rice into a delicious dinner:
How to Cook Brown Rice
Want to make brown rice that’s cooked perfectly every time? Just follow this easy method! Then, use it in bowls, stir fries, and more.
Prep: 5min
Total: 60min
Ingredients:
- 1 cup uncooked brown rice (well rinsed)
- 2 cups water
- 1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil
Instruction:
- Combine the rinsed rice, water, and olive oil in a pot and bring to a boil. Cover, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for 45 minutes.
- Remove from the heat and let it sit, covered for 10 more minutes. Fluff with a fork.
35 Ways to Cook Brown Rice
This collection of easy Brown Rice Recipes includes many sides and mains to cook with your favorite whole grain.
Ingredients:
- brown rice
- seasonings
- veggies
- meats
Instruction:
- pick a recipes that looks good
- gather ingredients
- cook your new favorite brown rice recipes
How to Cook Perfect Brown Rice
FAQ
What can I add to brown rice for flavor?
What goes well in brown rice?
- Miso Honey Salmon.
- Apricot Pork Medallions.
- Garlic Butter baked Chicken.
- Cauliflower and Broccoli Casserole.
- Sausage Meatballs and Chickpea.
- Roasted Potatoes and Carrots.
- Lemon Garlic Shrimps.
How can I flavor brown rice without adding calories?
- Lemon Juice. This juice is a great way to finish off a dish with zesty tang. …
- Pepper. Pepper is an excellent way to add flavor to any dish. …
- Cucumber Slices. …
- Orange Juice. …
- Mustard. …
- Hot Sauce. …
- Fresh Herbs. …
- Salt-Free Seasoning Blends.
What is the healthiest way to eat brown rice?
- Add it to soup for healthy carbs.
- Stir fry vegetables and meat or tofu, then add some brown rice.
- Mix up a rice bowl with beans, salsa, greens, and maybe some chicken.
- Combine it with ground beef and spices to make stuffed bell peppers.
