Ever stare at the grocery aisle, faced with a wall of microwave rice boxes, feeling totally lost? You know you want a quick, easy side dish, but which one tastes good and actually cooks right? Choosing the perfect microwave rice can feel like a secret mission. Some come out mushy, others stay hard, and the flavors can be a real gamble when you’re already short on time.
We all rely on that trusty microwave for fast meals, but settling for bland or poorly cooked rice is a drag. We need reliable options that deliver great taste without the hassle of a stovetop. This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down the best brands, explain what different cooking times mean, and share tips for making that instant rice taste amazing.
Keep reading to discover the ultimate guide to microwave rice. By the end, you will know exactly which box to grab every time, turning your quick meal prep into a guaranteed success.
Top Microwave Rice Recommendations
- Six 8.5 oz pouches of BEN'S ORIGINAL Ready Rice Jasmine Rice
- Microwave rice pouch that provides a delicious substitute for white rice, brown rice, or wild rice in just 90 seconds
- Contains 100% authentic Thai rice that tastes great as a cooked rice side dish or as part of a savory main course
- Pair this long grain rice with your favorite Southeast Asian cuisine entrees or serve it plain
- Microwave this rice for 90 seconds or thoroughly heat it in a skillet before serving
- Store rice in a cool, dry place in an airtight container to preserve freshness and prevent moisture or pests
- No hydrogenated fats or high fructose corn syrup allowed in any food
- No bleached or bromated flour
- No synthetic nitrates or nitrites
- GREAT FOR ANY MEAL: Our instant and microwaveable rice is great as-is, used for sushi, or in a soup! Pair it with side dishes for a delicious meal.
- QUICK & DELICIOUS: Each serving comes in a convenient, microwave safe container and is ready in 90 seconds. Perfect for college students, busy professionals, campers, and anyone who wants a great meal in half the time!
- PREMIUM INGREDIENTS, NO PRESERVATIVES: Each bowl is made from premium crops of rice and cooked under the perfect conditions for the best possible taste and texture.
- RICE THAT SIMPLY TASTES BETTER: Cooked within 24 hours of milling, our rice tastes like it was freshly cooked, even after microwaving! We also use zero preservatives, resulting in quality you can taste.
- TRIED & TRUE: CJ, the No. 1 Korean Food Company, has been developing and enhancing instant rice for over 20 years. We know what good rice is!
- HIGH QUALITY AUTHENTIC JAPANESE RICE: IRIS USA microwave rice is made from 100% premium short-grain white rice, carefully selected for its natural sweetness, soft texture, and mild mouthfeel. Each grain is gently harvested, parboiled rice at a precise pH, then milled and polished at low temperatures to preserve flavor and freshness. Packaged in a food-grade tray for convenience and quality.
- READY IN 80 SECONDS: This microwavable rice cooks fast and easy: simply peel the film to the dotted line and microwave for 80 seconds (1,000–1,200 W). Enjoy directly from the tray or transfer to your favorite rice bowl. Alternatively, heat the unopened pack in boiling water for 18 minutes for perfect results every time.
- CONVENIENT PORTIONS: Each microwavable tray contains 6.3 oz (180g) of premium instant white rice, sold in a set of 10 trays. Perfectly portioned for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or a quick snack, this ready-to-eat sushi rice fits seamlessly into your busy lifestyle.
- ON-THE-GO CONVENIENCE: Perfect for the office, picnics, camping, or dorm life, this microwavable white rice delivers a quick, delicious meal without the hassle of undercooked or overcooked rice. Enjoy the taste and ease of a home-cooked meal without the time-consuming prep.
- Rice Meal to Your Diet: IRIS USA Rice is gluten free, vegetarian, and vegan. Enjoy our low fat premium white rice however you want. It is perfect for varieties of rice bowl, sushi, fried rice, bibimbap, or as a delightful accompaniment to your favorite soups.
- QUICK & TASTY EVERY TIME: You deserve to enjoy a delicious meal, even on a busy day. Our microwavable white-rice cups provide fluffy fully cooked rice that any meat lover, vegan, or vegetarian will enjoy.
- READY IN ONE MINUTE: Upgrade your pantry food items! Pop a Minute rice cup in the microwave, and you’ll have a quick snack or side in one minute. Each BPA-free cup is perfectly portioned for a meal or side dish.
- DELICIOUS ON-THE-GO RICE: These single-serving instant-rice cups are the perfect size to take with you anywhere you go. Our white-rice cups contain no preservatives, are gluten-free, and are Non-GMO Project Verified. They’re also free of cholesterol and MSG.
- UNLIMITED POSSIBILITIES: Our fully cooked rice is a great addition to any breakfast, lunch, dinner, or snack. You can even add it to desserts like rice pudding! Top this white-rice cup with an egg, use it as a quick meal side, or add it to your favorite soup, stir-fry, or fried rice recipes.
- MORE TIME FOR YOU: Spend less time cooking in the kitchen and free up more time for you with this quick rice. Cleanup is a snap since you can eat the rice right out of the cup! Think outside the cup with our delicious and convenient rice.
- Precooked 100% whole grain rice that offers a flavorful nutty taste.
- Good source of fiber
- Only 1 simple ingredient - rice
- Gluten free certified, Non-GMO project verified
- Ready in 10 minutes
- One 8.5 oz pouch of BEN'S ORIGINAL Ready Rice Jasmine Rice
- Microwave rice pouch that provides a delicious substitute for white rice, brown rice, or wild rice in just 90 seconds
- Contains 100% authentic Thai rice that tastes great as a cooked rice side dish or as part of a savory main course
- Pair this long grain rice with your favorite Southeast Asian cuisine entrees or serve it plain
- Microwave this rice for 90 seconds or thoroughly heat it in a skillet before serving
Your Essential Guide to Buying Microwave Rice
Microwave rice is a lifesaver for quick meals. It cooks fast and saves you from dirtying pots. But with so many options, how do you pick the best one? This guide helps you choose the perfect microwave rice for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping, keep an eye out for these important features. They make a big difference in your cooking experience.
Speed and Convenience
- Cook Time: Most microwave rice cooks in 60 to 120 seconds. Shorter times mean faster meals.
- Easy Open Packaging: Look for tear strips or vents that make opening the package safe and simple.
Portion Size
- Single vs. Family Packs: Decide if you need small, single servings for lunch or larger pouches for dinner for the whole family.
- Serving Count: Check the label to see how many cups of cooked rice the package yields.
Flavor and Variety
- Grain Type: Do you prefer long-grain white rice, brown rice, basmati, or even mixed grains?
- Seasoning: Some packs come plain, while others are seasoned (like Spanish style or pilaf). Choose based on what you plan to eat it with.
Important Materials and Ingredients
The ingredients determine the taste and health benefits of your microwave rice.
The Rice Itself
- Whole Grain vs. Refined: Brown rice is a whole grain, meaning it has more fiber and nutrients. White rice is refined, offering a softer texture.
- Additives: Check for added sugars, sodium, or artificial flavors if you are watching your diet. Simple ingredients are often best.
The Packaging Material
The container holding the rice is usually made of plastic or sometimes a sturdy paper/foil tray. Make sure the packaging is labeled “Microwave Safe.” This ensures the container will not melt or leach harmful chemicals into your food when heated.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
A few things can make your microwave rice taste fantastic or slightly disappointing.
Quality Boosters (What makes it better)
- Steaming Method: The best microwave rice steams the grain perfectly inside the sealed pouch. This traps moisture and results in fluffy, not dry, rice.
- Natural Flavor: Rice that tastes fresh, not overly starchy or metallic, is a sign of quality production.
Quality Reducers (What makes it worse)
- Dryness: If the rice is too dry or hard after cooking, it means the water ratio was wrong or the seal was poor. This is a common complaint.
- Gummy Texture: Sometimes, rice becomes mushy or gummy. This happens when the rice breaks down too much during the rapid cooking process.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how and when you will use this rice. This helps you select the right product.
When to Use Microwave Rice
- Busy Weeknights: When you need a side dish ready in under two minutes, this rice shines.
- Lunch Boxes: It is perfect for packing a quick, hot lunch for work or school without needing a stove.
- Dorm Rooms or Small Apartments: If you lack a full kitchen, microwave rice is your best friend.
Ease of Use
A good microwave rice product should require minimal steps. You usually just tear the corner, microwave it, and serve. If the instructions are complicated, it defeats the purpose of buying a quick meal solution.
Microwave Rice Buying FAQ
Q: How long does microwave rice usually last on the shelf?
A: Most sealed microwave rice pouches are shelf-stable and last for many months, often a year or more, if stored in a cool, dry pantry.
Q: Is microwave rice as healthy as stovetop rice?
A: Yes, generally the nutritional content is the same. The cooking method does not change the grain itself. Check the label for added salt or oil, though.
Q: Can I cook microwave rice without a microwave?
A: Some brands offer boil-in-bag options, where you cook the pouch in boiling water on the stove. Always check the specific package instructions.
Q: Why does my rice sometimes come out hard?
A: Hard rice usually means your microwave is too powerful for the suggested time, or you did not let the rice rest after cooking. Resting allows the steam to finish cooking the grains.
Q: What is the difference between pre-cooked and instant rice?
A: “Pre-cooked” means the rice is already cooked and just needs reheating. “Instant” rice requires a small amount of added water and cooking time to fully hydrate and heat up.
Q: Should I worry about the plastic packaging?
A: If the packaging is clearly marked “Microwave Safe,” it is safe for use. Avoid microwaving any package that looks damaged or is not specifically designed for it.
Q: Are there low-calorie options available?
A: Yes, look for options made with whole grains like brown rice, or specialty options like cauliflower rice blends, which naturally have fewer calories than white rice.
Q: How much water should I add if the package seems dry?
A: Always follow the package directions first. If you find it consistently dry, add one or two tablespoons of plain water to the pouch before microwaving.
Q: Can I eat microwave rice cold?
A: Yes, if it is fully cooked, you can eat it cold in salads or wraps. Ensure it has been handled safely and refrigerated if you are not eating it right away.
Q: Which grain is best for soaking up sauces?
A: Shorter-grain white rice tends to be stickier and better for soaking up thick sauces like curry. Long-grain varieties, like Basmati, stay fluffier.