Fluffy Perfect Brown Rice Recipe
A simple and reliable recipe for fluffy, nutty brown rice with perfect texture every time. Ideal for healthy meals, meal prep, and as a wholesome side dish.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup (190g) long-grain or medium-grain brown rice
- 2 1/4 cups (540 ml) filtered or spring water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or unsalted butter
- Optional: 1 crushed garlic clove or a small piece of cinnamon stick
Instructions
- Rinse the rice under cold running water for about 30 seconds using a fine mesh strainer to remove excess starch.
- Soak the rinsed rice in water in a saucepan for 20-30 minutes to soften the bran and reduce cooking time.
- Drain the soaked rice completely and add 2 1/4 cups fresh water, salt, and olive oil or butter to the saucepan.
- Add optional aromatics like crushed garlic or cinnamon stick if desired.
- Bring the water to a rolling boil over medium-high heat, uncovered.
- Reduce heat to low, cover tightly with a lid, and simmer undisturbed for 40-45 minutes.
- Turn off the heat and let the rice rest, covered, for 10 minutes to finish cooking with steam.
- Remove the lid, discard aromatics if used, and fluff the rice gently with a fork or rice paddle before serving.
Notes
Do not lift the lid during simmering to keep steam trapped for fluffy rice. If rice is too firm after resting, add a tablespoon of hot water, cover, and let sit a few more minutes. Rinsing and soaking the rice are key steps for perfect texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup cooked rice
- Calories: 215
- Sugar: 0.7
- Sodium: 200
- Fat: 1.5
- Saturated Fat: 0.3
- Carbohydrates: 45
- Fiber: 3.5
- Protein: 5
Keywords: brown rice, fluffy rice, healthy side dish, easy brown rice recipe, whole grain rice, meal prep rice