How to Cook Jasmine Rice

Knowing How to Cook Jasmine Rice so it is perfect and fluffy every time comes down to two things: the right rice-to-water ratio and correct cooking method. By following these fool-proof steps, you’ll get soft and tender grains with a chewy bite every time. Serve this easy-to-make dish with your favorite recipes year-round.

Perfect Jasmine Rice Recipe

When it comes to rice, many choose white rice or brown rice. But Jasmine rice is so delicious and just as easy to make.

You get the added bonus of its lovely, slightly floral notes that complement plenty of dishes (like some of the bold flavors in this Pumpkin Curry or this Instant Pot Chicken Curry). Plus, you’ll feel like you’re eating a fancy (and healthy!) side dish.

But, just like other rice varieties, getting grains just right can be challenging. Many don’t use the right ratio of water to rice. But knowing this, along with a few simple tricks and techniques, will ensure your jasmine rice comes out perfect every single time.

And let’s not forget about rinsing the grains before cooking so there’s not excess starch. This is a major factor in getting fluffy—and not clumpy—rice.

For more on rice, don’t miss How to Cook Basmati Rice and How to Cook White Rice. And if you’re feeling confused about all the varieties, here’s a break down of Basmati Rice vs. Jasmine Rice.

What is Jasmine Rice?

Jasmine rice is is a long-grain rice that is sometimes described as having a floral aroma and slightly sweet taste. It comes in a range of colors—brown, white, black, purple, and red.

It’s an Asian variety that typically grows in Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam. While it is incredibly popular throughout these regions, as well as in India, it is enjoyed less often in America.

Ingredients

The simple ingredients you need to make this easy jasmine rice recipe include:

• Jasmine rice. Jasmine rice isn’t the most common type of rice used, but it still should be easy to find at the grocery store in the aisle with other grains. 
• Optional ingredients. Butter or olive oil can be added for some extra flavor.

How to Cook Jasmine Rice on the Stove

Below are the simple steps to make this delicious jasmine rice recipe:

Rinse the Rice

Every variety of rice cooks better after it has been rinsed. This step removes excess starch that leads to clumps once cooked.

To rinse, add the rice to a fine-mesh strainer. Then, run cold water over it until the water is clear. It should take a minute or two.

Jasmine Rice to Water Ratio

The ratio of rice to water is essential. With too much water, the rice will be mushy. With not enough, it will be hard. The cooking method also determines the amount of water needed.

To make jasmine rice on the stovetop, you need 1 ⅔-cups of water for each cup of rice.

To make Instant Pot jasmine rice, you need 1 to 1¼-cups of water for each cup of uncooked rice.

Add to Pot

Place the rice and water (and oil, if you’re using it) into a medium-sized pot or saucepan over high heat. Bring everything to a full, rolling boil.

You should see foam forming at the top and bubbles all around.

How Long to Cook Jasmine Rice?

Once you get a full boil, turn the heat down to medium-low. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid. Let the rice simmer for 12 minutes.

Remove the pot from the heat. But, DON’T take the lid off. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes.

Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.

Meal Prep and Storage

• How to store: Cooked jasmine rice should keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 to 5 days.
• How to freeze: Freezing cooked rice is simple. Place the rice in a freezer-safe bag or storage container for up to 4 to 6 months. You can also freeze individual portions for easy use after thawing.
• How to reheat: You can quickly and easily warm leftover rice up in the microwave. Add a few tablespoons of water to the bowl to help rehydrate the rice. Heat in 30 second intervals until warmed through.

Is jasmine rice healthy?

Jasmine rice not only tastes delicious, but it is also a healthy grain you can feel good about enjoying. Just like any carbohydrate, though, it’s best enjoyed in moderation.

Jasmine rice vs Basmati rice?

Both jasmine rice and basmati rice are long-grained rice varieties, but jasmine is typically sweeter. (If you’ve ever wondered about the difference between jasmine rice and basmati rice, you’re not alone.)

Is Jasmine rice gluten-free?

Jasmine rice is gluten-free. However, it’s always best to read the label to be sure no cross-contamination has occurred and it is safe to consume if you have allergies.

Expert Tips and Tricks

• Change it up. While most people choose white jasmine rice, you can opt for brown, red, purple, or black, too.
• Rinse well. Make sure you hold the rice under the water long enough for the water to run clear.
• Plus it up. Garlic, broth, and herbs while cooking can all add so much flavor.
• Wait for it. Don’t jump the gun and remove the lid too soon; the rice will continue to cook for those 10 minutes.
• Use a fork. It’s the perfect utensil to fluff up the rice before you serve it.

What to Serve with Jasmine Rice

You can enjoy jasmine rice anywhere you’d serve white or brown rice. Try any of these recipes with it soon.

It’s absolutely perfect with curries, like Pumpkin Curry, Thai Green Chicken Curry, Salmon Curry with Coconut Milk, Chicken Korma Curry, Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala, or Instant Pot Yellow Chicken Curry.

Or, try it with a Korean Beef Bowl, Instant Pot Hawaiian Chicken, Instant Pot Orange Chicken, Gluten-free Orange Chicken, or alongside Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce.

More Easy Rice Recipes

If you could eat rice everyday (like me!), then you definitely want to put these options on your menu.

Learn How to Cook White Rice, How to Cook Basmati Rice, How to Cook Sushi Rice, and How to Cook Wild Rice.

Or, whip up some Coconut Rice, Coconut Mango Rice, or Cilantro Lime Rice.