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Rice Water Ratio

Water needed for any rice quantity and variety.

Formula

Water = Rice × ratio (by type)

How to use

  1. 1Enter the weight of rice.
  2. 2Pick the rice type.
  3. 3Read the water amount and serving estimate, then simmer covered.

About this calculator

The difference between fluffy, separate grains and a sticky mess usually comes down to the water-to-rice ratio, and that ratio changes with the rice. Basmati wants less water than brown rice, sushi rice less still, and risotto a lot more. This calculator gives the right water for the type and quantity you are cooking, plus a rough serving count.

Formula explained

Water = Rice × ratio, where the ratio is the second number in the “1 to something” shorthand. Basmati and jasmine ≈ 1:1.5, white long-grain 1:2, brown 1:2.25, sushi 1:1.2, risotto (Arborio) 1:3. Servings assume about 75 g of uncooked rice per person.

Worked example

200 g basmati × 1.5 = 300 g (300 ml) water, serving about 3 people. Because 1 g of water is 1 ml, you can weigh the water on the same scale.

Tips & notes

  • Keep the lid on so steam does the work and the water measurement stays true.
  • Rest the rice covered for 5 to 10 minutes after cooking for clean separation.
  • Soak basmati about 20 minutes before cooking to shorten the cook time and improve texture.

Frequently asked questions