Rice-to-Water Ratio Calculator
Get the perfect rice-to-water ratio for any type of rice and cooking method. Never get mushy or crunchy rice again.
Rice-to-Water Ratio Chart
| Rice Type | Stovetop | Rice Cooker | Instant Pot | Cook Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| White long grain | 1 : 2 | 1 : 1.5 | 1 : 1 | 15-20 min |
| Basmati | 1 : 1.5 | 1 : 1.5 | 1 : 1 | 15-18 min |
| Jasmine | 1 : 1.5 | 1 : 1.25 | 1 : 1 | 12-15 min |
| Sushi rice | 1 : 1.25 | 1 : 1.1 | 1 : 1 | 15-18 min |
| Brown rice | 1 : 2.5 | 1 : 2 | 1 : 1.25 | 40-50 min |
| Wild rice | 1 : 3 | 1 : 2.5 | 1 : 1.5 | 45-60 min |
| Arborio (risotto) | 1 : 3.5 | 1 : 2.5 | 1 : 1.5 | 18-25 min |
| Black rice | 1 : 2.25 | 1 : 1.75 | 1 : 1.25 | 30-35 min |
| Sticky rice | 1 : 1.25 | 1 : 1 | 1 : 0.75 | 20-25 min |
Tips for Perfect Rice
Rinse first. Rinsing removes excess starch and prevents sticky, gummy rice. Rinse under cold water until the water runs mostly clear (3-4 rinses). Exception: don't rinse arborio — you want that starch for creamy risotto.
Don't lift the lid. Steam is doing the work. Lifting the lid releases steam and disrupts cooking. Trust the timer.
Let it rest. After cooking, let rice sit covered for 5-10 minutes off the heat. This redistributes moisture for fluffier, more even rice.
Fluff with a fork. Use a fork, not a spoon — it separates grains without crushing them.
Serving Sizes
One serving of cooked rice is typically 3/4 cup (about 135g cooked, made from ~45g/1/4 cup dry). As a side dish, plan for 1/2 cup cooked per person. As a main dish base (like a rice bowl), plan for 1 to 1.5 cups cooked per person.