Guide on the top microwaves and techniques for cooking rice quickly and efficiently.
Cooking rice perfectly can be a challenge, especially if you’re not a seasoned chef. But fret not, because your trusty microwave can be your secret weapon to fluffy, delicious rice every time! We’ve done the research and compiled a list of the 15 best microwaves specifically designed for cooking rice, taking into consideration features like power, capacity, and ease of use.
Whether you’re looking for a microwave that can handle large batches for your family gatherings or a compact model for your dorm room, we’ve got you covered. Each microwave on our list comes with its own unique advantages, ranging from specialized rice cooking functions to advanced features like steam cooking and even built-in timers.
We’ll delve into the details of each microwave, comparing their strengths and weaknesses, so you can make an informed decision. We’ll also provide tips and tricks to ensure your rice turns out perfectly cooked every single time, regardless of the microwave you choose.
So, if you’re ready to ditch the stovetop and embrace the convenience of microwave rice cooking, keep reading!
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| Item | Image | Where to buy | Rating | Read More | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Mahatma Rice, Extra Long Grain | N/A | Jump to Review | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Lundberg Family Farms, Organic White Rice | N/A | Jump to Review | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Minute Rice, White Rice | N/A | Jump to Review | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Uncle Ben’s, Ready Rice | N/A | Jump to Review | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Success Rice, White Rice | N/A | Jump to Review | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Nishiki, Premium Medium Grain Rice | N/A | Jump to Review | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Jasmine Rice, Thai Hom Mali | N/A | Jump to Review | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Arborio Rice, Italian Short Grain | N/A | Jump to Review | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Brown Rice, Long Grain | N/A | Jump to Review | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Basmati Rice, Indian Long Grain | N/A | Jump to Review | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Mahatma Rice, Extra Long Grain
A staple in many kitchens, Mahatma Rice offers a consistent, fluffy texture when cooked.
Read more about this on 18 Best Microwave for Baking
Specifications :
- Type: Extra Long Grain
- Serving Size: 1 cup uncooked
- Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
- Price: Budget-friendly
Reasons to buy :
- Affordable
- Widely available
- Reliable for consistent results
Reasons to avoid :
- Not organic
- Not as flavorful as some specialty rices
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You are looking for a classic rice that is affordable and easy to find.
- You are cooking for a large group or need a lot of rice for a specific dish.
Don't buy it if:
- You are looking for an organic option.
- You are looking for a more flavorful rice for a specific dish.
Bottom Line:
Mahatma Rice is a great option for those who are looking for a classic, affordable rice that is reliable for consistent results. While it might not be as flavorful as some other options, it is a great value for the price and a reliable choice for everyday cooking.
Lundberg Family Farms, Organic White Rice
You can find more information on 18 Best Microwave for Lunch
Organic and flavorful, Lundberg Family Farms Organic White Rice is a great option for those looking for a healthier rice choice.
Specifications :
- Type: White Rice
- Serving Size: 1 cup uncooked
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Price: Mid-range
Reasons to buy :
- Organic
- Flavorful
- Sustainably sourced
Reasons to avoid :
- Can be more expensive than other options
- May not be as readily available as some other brands
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You are looking for an organic rice that is also flavorful.
- You are willing to pay a bit more for a sustainable product.
Don't buy it if:
- You are on a tight budget.
- You have trouble finding organic products in your local grocery store.
Bottom Line:
Lundberg Family Farms Organic White Rice is a great option for those who are looking for a healthier, more flavorful rice. It is certified organic, sustainably sourced, and is a great addition to any kitchen. If you are willing to pay a bit more for organic and sustainable products, then this is a great choice.
Minute Rice, White Rice
For a quick and easy meal, Minute Rice is the go-to choice.
Specifications :
- Type: White Rice
- Serving Size: 1 cup uncooked
- Cooking Time: 1 minute
- Price: Budget-friendly
Reasons to buy :
- Extremely fast cooking time
- Affordable
- Widely available
Reasons to avoid :
- Not as flavorful as some other options
- May not be as nutritious as other options
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You are short on time and need a quick meal.
- You are looking for a budget-friendly option.
Don't buy it if:
- You are looking for a more flavorful or nutritious rice.
Bottom Line:
Minute Rice is a great option for those who are short on time and need a quick meal. It is affordable, convenient, and a great choice for busy individuals or families. While it might not be as flavorful or nutritious as some other options, it is a reliable and quick choice for a simple meal.
Uncle Ben's, Ready Rice
Uncle Ben's Ready Rice is a convenient option that is ready to eat right out of the bag.
Specifications :
- Type: White Rice
- Serving Size: 1 cup uncooked
- Cooking Time: 0 minutes (pre-cooked)
- Price: Mid-range
Reasons to buy :
- Ready to eat
- Convenient
- Wide variety of flavors available
Reasons to avoid :
- Not as nutritious as freshly cooked rice
- Can be more expensive than other options
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You are looking for a convenient option that is ready to eat.
- You are looking for a variety of flavors.
Don't buy it if:
- You are looking for a more nutritious option.
- You are on a tight budget.
Bottom Line:
Uncle Ben's Ready Rice is a great option for those who are looking for a convenient and quick meal. It is ready to eat right out of the bag, comes in a variety of flavors, and is a great choice for busy individuals or families. However, it is not as nutritious as freshly cooked rice and can be more expensive than other options.
Success Rice, White Rice
Success Rice offers a consistently good quality rice that is both flavorful and affordable.
Specifications :
- Type: White Rice
- Serving Size: 1 cup uncooked
- Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
- Price: Budget-friendly
Reasons to buy :
- Affordable
- Flavorful
- Widely available
Reasons to avoid :
- Not organic
- Not as unique as some specialty rices
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You are looking for a good quality rice that is affordable and easy to find.
- You want a rice that is versatile for different dishes.
Don't buy it if:
- You are looking for an organic option.
- You want a rice with a unique flavor or texture.
Bottom Line:
Success Rice is a great option for those who are looking for a consistently good quality rice that is affordable and easy to find. It is a reliable choice for everyday cooking and a versatile option for different dishes. While it might not be as unique or flavorful as some other options, it is a great value for the price and a good choice for those who are looking for a simple and reliable rice.
Nishiki, Premium Medium Grain Rice
Nishiki is a Japanese rice known for its sticky texture and sweet flavor.
Specifications :
- Type: Medium Grain
- Serving Size: 1 cup uncooked
- Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
- Price: Mid-range
Reasons to buy :
- Unique sticky texture
- Sweet flavor
- Great for sushi and other Japanese dishes
Reasons to avoid :
- May not be as readily available as other options
- Can be more expensive than other options
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You are looking for a rice with a unique sticky texture.
- You are making sushi or other Japanese dishes.
Don't buy it if:
- You are looking for a rice that is more readily available.
- You are on a tight budget.
Bottom Line:
Nishiki is a premium medium grain rice that is known for its sticky texture and sweet flavor. It is a great choice for sushi and other Japanese dishes and a unique addition to any kitchen. If you are looking for a rice with a distinct flavor and texture, Nishiki is a great option. However, it is not as readily available as other options and can be more expensive.
Jasmine Rice, Thai Hom Mali
Known for its fragrant aroma and fluffy texture, Jasmine Rice is a popular choice for many.
Specifications :
- Type: Long Grain
- Serving Size: 1 cup uncooked
- Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
- Price: Mid-range
Reasons to buy :
- Fragrant aroma
- Fluffy texture
- Great for stir-fries and other Asian dishes
Reasons to avoid :
- Not as readily available as some other options
- Can be more expensive than other options
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You are looking for a rice with a fragrant aroma and fluffy texture.
- You are making stir-fries or other Asian dishes.
Don't buy it if:
- You are looking for a rice that is more readily available.
- You are on a tight budget.
Bottom Line:
Jasmine Rice is a popular choice for many due to its fragrant aroma and fluffy texture. It is a great choice for stir-fries and other Asian dishes and a unique addition to any kitchen. If you are looking for a rice with a distinct flavor and texture, Jasmine Rice is a great option. However, it is not as readily available as other options and can be more expensive.
Arborio Rice, Italian Short Grain
Arborio Rice is a popular choice for risotto due to its creamy texture and ability to absorb liquid.
Specifications :
- Type: Short Grain
- Serving Size: 1 cup uncooked
- Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
- Price: Mid-range
Reasons to buy :
- Creamy texture
- Absorbs liquid well
- Ideal for risotto
Reasons to avoid :
- Not as versatile as other rice options
- Can be more expensive than other options
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You are making risotto.
- You are looking for a rice with a creamy texture.
Don't buy it if:
- You are looking for a rice that is more versatile.
- You are on a tight budget.
Bottom Line:
Arborio Rice is a popular choice for risotto due to its creamy texture and ability to absorb liquid. It is a great choice for those who are looking for a specific rice for a specific dish and a unique addition to any kitchen. However, it is not as versatile as other options and can be more expensive.
Brown Rice, Long Grain
Brown rice is a whole grain rice that is packed with nutrients and fiber.
Specifications :
- Type: Long Grain
- Serving Size: 1 cup uncooked
- Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
- Price: Mid-range
Reasons to buy :
- Whole grain
- Packed with nutrients and fiber
- Healthier than white rice
Reasons to avoid :
- Longer cooking time
- Can be more expensive than other options
- May have a nuttier flavor that some may not enjoy
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You are looking for a healthier option.
- You are willing to wait longer for the rice to cook.
Don't buy it if:
- You are short on time.
- You are on a tight budget.
Bottom Line:
Brown rice is a whole grain rice that is packed with nutrients and fiber. It is a healthier option than white rice but does take longer to cook and can be more expensive. If you are looking for a healthy and nutritious rice option, brown rice is a great choice. However, if you are on a tight budget or are short on time, you may want to consider a different type of rice.
Basmati Rice, Indian Long Grain
Basmati Rice is a fragrant rice that is known for its long, slender grains.
Specifications :
- Type: Long Grain
- Serving Size: 1 cup uncooked
- Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
- Price: Mid-range
Reasons to buy :
- Fragrant aroma
- Long, slender grains
- Great for Indian dishes
Reasons to avoid :
- Not as readily available as some other options
- Can be more expensive than other options
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You are looking for a rice with a fragrant aroma and long, slender grains.
- You are making Indian dishes.
Don't buy it if:
- You are looking for a rice that is more readily available.
- You are on a tight budget.
Bottom Line:
Basmati Rice is a fragrant rice that is known for its long, slender grains. It is a great choice for Indian dishes and a unique addition to any kitchen. If you are looking for a rice with a distinct flavor and texture, Basmati Rice is a great option. However, it is not as readily available as other options and can be more expensive.
Sushi Rice, Japanese Short Grain
Japanese short grain rice is a staple ingredient in sushi making. It is known for its sticky texture and slightly sweet flavor.
Specifications:
- Type: Short grain
- Origin: Japan
- Cooking time: 15-20 minutes
Reasons to buy:
- Perfect for sushi making
- Sticky texture holds together well
- Slightly sweet flavor
Reasons to avoid:
- Not ideal for other rice dishes
- Can be difficult to find
What you need to know:
Buy it if
You are making sushi or other Japanese dishes that require sticky rice.
Don't buy it if:
You are looking for a rice that is versatile for other dishes.
Bottom Line:
Japanese short grain rice is a great choice for sushi lovers who want to enjoy authentic Japanese flavors. It is known for its sticky texture, which is essential for holding together sushi rolls. However, it is not a versatile rice and should only be used for specific dishes. If you are looking for a rice that can be used for a variety of dishes, you may want to consider a different variety.
Wild Rice
Wild rice is a type of grass that is not technically rice but rather a grain. It has a nutty flavor and chewy texture.
Specifications:
- Type: Wild rice
- Origin: North America
- Cooking time: 45-60 minutes
Reasons to buy:
- Nutty flavor
- Chewy texture
- High in fiber and protein
Reasons to avoid:
- Long cooking time
- Can be expensive
- Not as versatile as other rice varieties
What you need to know:
Buy it if
You are looking for a healthy and flavorful grain with a unique texture.
Don't buy it if:
You are looking for a quick and easy rice option.
Bottom Line:
Wild rice is a healthy and delicious grain that adds a unique flavor and texture to dishes. It is a good source of fiber and protein, but it takes a long time to cook. If you are looking for a quick and easy rice option, you may want to consider a different variety. However, if you are willing to wait for the long cooking time, wild rice is a rewarding choice.
Rice Pilaf
Rice pilaf is a flavorful rice dish that is typically made with vegetables, herbs, and spices. It is a versatile dish that can be served as a side dish or main course.
Specifications:
- Type: Long grain rice
- Origin: Various
- Cooking time: 20-30 minutes
Reasons to buy:
- Flavorful
- Versatile
- Easy to make
Reasons to avoid:
- Can be high in calories and fat if made with butter or oil
What you need to know:
Buy it if
You are looking for a flavorful and versatile rice dish that is easy to make.
You can find more information on 15 Best Microwave Rice Cooker
Don't buy it if:
You are trying to limit your calorie and fat intake.
Bottom Line:
Rice pilaf is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed by everyone. It is a great option for a quick and easy meal or side dish. However, it is important to be mindful of the ingredients used, as some recipes can be high in calories and fat. If you are watching your weight, you can always use a lighter cooking method or opt for a leaner version of the dish.
Rice Krispies Treats
Rice Krispies treats are a classic American snack that is made with Rice Krispies cereal, marshmallows, and butter.
Specifications:
- Type: Rice Krispies cereal
- Origin: United States
- Cooking time: 5-10 minutes
Reasons to buy:
- Nostalgic
- Easy to make
- Customizable
Reasons to avoid:
- Can be high in sugar
- Not very nutritious
What you need to know:
Buy it if
You are looking for a quick and easy treat that is nostalgic and customizable.
Don't buy it if:
You are trying to limit your sugar intake or looking for a healthy snack.
Bottom Line:
Rice Krispies treats are a classic American snack that is sure to bring back fond memories. They are easy to make and can be customized with different flavors and toppings. However, they are also high in sugar and not very nutritious. If you are looking for a healthy snack, you may want to consider a different option. But if you are looking for a quick and easy treat that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth, Rice Krispies treats are a great choice.
Rice Pudding
Read more about this on 15 Best Microwave Butter Popcorn
Rice pudding is a creamy dessert made with rice, milk, and sugar. It can be flavored with vanilla, cinnamon, or other spices.
Specifications:
- Type: Short grain rice
- Origin: Various
- Cooking time: 30-45 minutes
Reasons to buy:
- Comforting
- Creamy
- Customizable
Reasons to avoid:
- Can be high in calories and sugar
What you need to know:
Buy it if
You are looking for a comforting and creamy dessert that is customizable.
Don't buy it if:
You are trying to limit your calorie and sugar intake.
Bottom Line:
Rice pudding is a classic dessert that is sure to bring back childhood memories. It is comforting, creamy, and customizable with different flavors and toppings. However, it is important to be mindful of the ingredients used, as some recipes can be high in calories and sugar. If you are watching your weight, you can always use a lighter cooking method or opt for a leaner version of the dish.
Explore further with 16 Best Microwave Cookware
So, there you have it – our top 15 picks for the best microwaves for cooking rice perfectly. Whether you're looking for a basic model or a high-tech powerhouse, there's a microwave on this list that's sure to meet your needs.
Ultimately, the best microwave for you will depend on your individual cooking needs and preferences. Consider factors like your budget, the size of your household, and the types of dishes you plan on making.
We hope this guide has helped you find the perfect microwave to elevate your rice-cooking game. With the right microwave, you can enjoy fluffy, flavorful rice every time, without the hassle of a stovetop.
No matter which microwave you choose, remember to experiment with different cooking times and settings to find the perfect recipe for your taste. Happy cooking!
Mohammed 
Reem