Rice
The most consumed staple grain in the world, feeding more than half the planet. White rice is milled with the hull and bran removed. Brown rice retains the bran layer, adding fiber and nuttiness but taking longer to cook.
Where to Find It
Rice and grains aisle, or international foods section for specialty varieties (basmati, jasmine, sushi rice). Usually on lower shelves in 1-5 lb bags. Bulk bins in some stores.
How to Pick a Good One
Match the rice to the dish: long-grain (basmati, jasmine) for pilafs and curries, medium-grain for risotto and paella, short-grain for sushi and sticky rice. Store brands are fine for everyday cooking. Check for a harvest date if buying premium varieties.
How to Store
Dry white rice: cool, dry pantry in a sealed container. Brown rice: refrigerate or freeze after opening (the bran oils go rancid). Cooked rice: refrigerator within 1 hour, use within 4 days.
Shelf life: Dry white rice: essentially indefinite (years). Dry brown rice: 6 months at room temp, 12+ months refrigerated. Cooked rice: 4-6 days refrigerated.
Prepping Tips
Rinse rice in cold water until the water runs clear โ removes excess starch and prevents gummy results. Standard ratio for white rice: 1 cup rice to 1.5 cups water. Bring to a boil, reduce to low, cover, cook 18 minutes, rest 5 minutes off heat.
Substitutions
Quinoa
Equal amountHigher protein, slightly nutty. Cooks in 15 minutes.
Cauliflower rice
Equal amountLow-carb alternative. Very different texture โ best in bowls and stir-fries.
Couscous
Equal amountCooks in 5 minutes. Similar neutral flavor. Actually tiny pasta, not a grain.
Common Uses
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does cooked rice last in the fridge?
4-6 days in a sealed container. Cool it down quickly (spread on a sheet pan) and refrigerate within 1 hour of cooking. Leftover rice that sits at room temperature for more than 2 hours can grow Bacillus cereus bacteria.
Is brown rice healthier than white rice?
Brown rice has more fiber, magnesium, and B vitamins since it retains the bran layer. But white rice is enriched with iron and folate, digests more easily, and works better for many dishes. Both are fine โ pick based on the recipe and your preference.
Can you freeze cooked rice?
Yes, and it freezes beautifully for up to 6 months. Portion into zip-lock bags, flatten, and freeze. Reheat directly from frozen in the microwave with a splash of water, covered, for 2-3 minutes.
Recipes Using Rice
32 recipes in our collection use rice.
- Thai Basil Fried Rice
- Chicken Fried Rice
- Butter Chicken (Indian)
- Teriyaki Chicken Bowl
- Korean Beef Bulgogi Bowl
- Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry
- Mushroom Risotto
- Vegetable Stir Fry
- Chickpea Curry
- Stuffed Bell Peppers
- Chicken Tikka Masala
- Pad Thai
- Tonkotsu Ramen
- Bibimbap
- Banh Mi Sandwich
- Filipino Adobo
- Moqueca
- Jollof Rice
- Better-Than-Takeout Fried Rice
- Brown Sugar Glazed Salmon
- Mongolian Beef
- Sweet and Sour Chicken
- Beef Pho (Phแป Bรฒ)
- Chicken Biryani (Hyderabadi Style)
- Creamy Wild Mushroom Risotto
- Takeout-Style Beef and Broccoli
- General Tso's Chicken
- Crispy Orange Chicken
- Vietnamese Fresh Spring Rolls (Gแปi Cuแปn)
- Crispy Crab Rangoon
- Filipino Pancit Bihon
- Ahi Tuna Poke Bowl
Nutrition
Per 1 cup cooked (158g)
Key Nutrients