Learn a foolproof way to cook rice that yields fluffy, perfectly cooked grains every time! This easy recipe for Slow Cooker Rice utilizes the power of your slow cooker, allowing you to set it and forget it while you focus on cooking the rest of your meal!
Can You Cook Rice In The Slow Cooker?
Yes, rice can easily be cooked in the crock pot or slow cooker in just a few easy steps, yielding perfectly cooked rice every time.
Rice is a staple in many cuisines around the world, and there are numerous traditional methods to cook this beloved grain. Each method has pros and cons, from boiling it on the stove to using a rice cooker.
Boiling rice on the stove is a classic technique that's been used for centuries. It's simple, straightforward, and doesn't require any fancy equipment. Using a rice cooker is another popular method that's common in Asian households. It's a convenient way to cook rice as it doesn't require constant monitoring, and the rice cooker will automatically switch off when the rice is done.
The crock pot is one of the best and easiest ways to cook rice. First of all, it's incredibly easy to use. All you need to do is spray the crock pot with a non-stick cooking spray, add rice, salt, and water, and let it do its thing! Unlike traditional methods, you don't need to monitor the rice constantly. Plus, you don't have to worry about the rice burning or boiling over.
The crock pot method yields perfectly cooked rice every time. The slow and steady cooking process allows the rice to absorb the liquid evenly, resulting in fluffy and tender grains that are never overcooked or undercooked. Plus, you can set it and forget it, allowing you to focus on other things in the kitchen!
Why You’ll Love Making It This Way
- This recipe takes all the guesswork out of cooking rice. This allows you to achieve perfectly fluffy, tender grains every time, without fail.
- Not only is this recipe easy to follow, but it's also incredibly convenient. You can set it and forget it, freeing up valuable time in the kitchen to focus on other tasks.
- Whether you're serving it as a side dish or incorporating it into your favorite recipes, this way is versatile and pairs well with a variety of different dishes, making it a must-have recipe in your culinary arsenal!
Ingredients
- White Rice - A staple grain that's popular all around the world and is used in a wide range of dishes, from stir-fries to sushi rolls. In this recipe, white rice serves as the base for any dish you need it for.
- Salt - Adding just a small amount of salt can make a big difference, as it gives the dish a subtle but satisfying hint of savory goodness.
- Water - Water is the liquid that's needed to cook the rice. It's essential to use the right amount of water to ensure that the rice cooks properly and doesn't turn out too dry or too wet. In this recipe, the ratio of water to rice is 2:1, which means that for every cup of rice, you'll need two cups of water.
How To Make Crock Pot Rice
Grease the slow cooker: It's important to spray the crock pot with a non-stick cooking spray to prevent the rice from sticking to the sides or bottom of the pot.
Add ingredients: Add the white rice, salt, and water to the crock pot.Stir the ingredients together gently to distribute the salt evenly throughout the water.
Cover and slow cook: Add the lid to the pot with the lid and turn the heat to high. The rice will need to cook for 1 ½ to 2 ½ hours, depending on your crock pot and the type of rice you're using.
Fluff with a fork: Using a fork, gently fluff the rice to separate the grains and make the texture light and fluffy.Serve and enjoy your perfectly cooked rice!
Tips For Successs
- It's important not to lift the lid during the cooking process. Doing so will release heat and steam, which can disrupt the cooking process.
- After the cooking time is up, turn off the heat and let the rice sit in the crock pot for a few minutes to absorb any remaining liquid.
- Use a 4-quart crock pot to ensure that there's enough space for the rice to cook evenly and for the water to absorb properly.
- Be sure to measure the ingredients carefully, as the right ratio of rice to water is crucial for perfectly cooked rice.
Flavor Variations
- For a healthier alternative, swap out white rice for brown rice, quinoa, or couscous. Adjust cooking time as necessary.
- Add some chopped vegetables like onions, bell peppers, or carrots to the crock pot to add texture and color to the dish.
- Add spices like cumin, paprika, or turmeric to the rice before cooking to give it a unique flavor profile.
- Add a splash of coconut milk, butter, or heavy cream to the rice for a creamier texture before cooking.
- Instead of water, use chicken or vegetable broth for extra flavor.
Storing & Freezing
Storing: Transfer cooled rice to an airtight container and refrigerate. Cooked rice can last in the fridge for up to four days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to the rice. This will prevent it from drying out in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Freezing: Allow the rice to cool down to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container or a resealable freezer bag. Cooked rice can last in the freezer for up to six months. To reheat, thaw the rice in the fridge overnight, then reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth.
Recipe FAQs
The rice should be tender and fluffy when it's done cooking. The water should also have been absorbed by the grains. So, there shouldn't be any extra liquid left in the pot.
Yes! Brown or wild rice can also be cooked in a crockpot. Keep in mind that brown and wild rice will take longer to cook. So it may be necessary to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
It's best to cook rice on HIGH as this will allow the rice to cook quickly and evenly. Cooking it on low or medium heat can result in unevenly cooked rice.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slow cooker rice with a variety of different dishes. Try some of our favorites below!
- Crock Pot Red Beans and Rice
- Slow Cooker Cashew Chicken
- Crock Pot Steak Bites Recipe
- Easy Crock Pot Sesame Chicken Recipe
- Slow Cooker Orange Chicken
- Crock Pot Chicken and Broccoli
I would love it if you would leave a 5 Star ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ rating below. Then follow me on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest! Share your favorite recipes or ask questions in my Facebook Group.
Slow Cooker Rice
Ingredients
- 3 cups white rice
- ½ tsp salt
- 6 cups water
Instructions
- Spray a 6-quart crock pot with a non-stick cooking spray.
- Add rice, salt, and water to the crock pot.
- Cover and cook on high for 1 ½ to 2½ hours.
- Before serving, fluff with a fork and enjoy!
Notes
- Although it may seem tedious, rinsing rice is necessary to remove excess starch that can cause stickiness. Place the rice in a fine mesh strainer and rinse it under cold water until it runs clear.
- You can enhance the flavor of your dish by substituting water with chicken or vegetable broth if desired.
- For most rice varieties, the standard ratio is 1 cup of rice to 2 cups of water, which you can adjust based on your desired quantity.
Nutrition
*Nutrition information is an estimate. It may vary based on ingredients, brands, and changes in cooking methods listed in the recipe. If you need exact ingredient numbers, I recommend calculating them with your preferred nutrition calculator.
Leave a Reply