Have you ever made a batch of rice only to find it sticky, mushy, or burnt in your trusty rice cooker? It’s frustrating! You trust your appliance to deliver perfect grains every time, but the final result often misses the mark. The secret ingredient you might be overlooking isn’t the water level or the cooking time—it’s the rice itself.
Choosing the right type of rice for your electric cooker is crucial. Different grains behave differently under heat and steam. Using long-grain rice when the recipe calls for short-grain can lead to disappointing textures. Many people struggle to navigate the aisles filled with Basmati, Jasmine, Arborio, and Calrose, wondering which one truly belongs in their machine for the best results.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down the best rice varieties specifically suited for rice cookers, explaining what makes each one shine. By the end of this post, you will know exactly which bag to grab for fluffy pilafs, creamy risottos, or simple side dishes. Get ready to unlock the full potential of your rice cooker and say goodbye to imperfect rice forever!
Top Rice For Rice Cooker Recommendations
- Store rice in a cool, dry place in an airtight container to preserve freshness and prevent moisture or pests
- One 2 pound bag of jasmine long grain rice
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- Premium quality jasmine rice that cooks up light and fluffy
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- ENRICH YOUR KITCHEN: Use RiceSelect’s Signature Jasmati white rice to liven up your favorite rice-based recipe with unforgettable flavors. Similar to our proprietary Texmati white rice, Jasmati is a RiceSelect-exclusive, American-style hybrid of Jasmine and long-grain rice, cooking up in 15 minutes.
- QUALITY FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY: From our exclusive rice varieties and rigid “inspect each grain” quality to our unique, innovative packaging, RiceSelect products are one of a kind. Each product we develop provides premium quality, taste, and texture that home cooks and the whole family will love!
- ALL ABOUT NUTRITION: Our Jasmati long-grain white rice has no other ingredients, so it’s low in fat, cholesterol, and sodium! It is Non-GMO Project Verified, Star-K Kosher, and Certified Gluten-Free as well as free of preservatives and additives, so even loved ones with dietary restrictions can enjoy it.
- PAIR WITH OTHER FOODS: Raise your kitchen game with fried rice dishes, rice puddings, cold rice salads, or a braised short-rib rice bowl. Enhance homemade supreme pizza crust, or upgrade an outdoor BBQ meal like Vietnamese lemongrass chicken skewers with Jasmati white rice and nuoc cham.
- SUSTAINABLE PACKAGING: We package all of our award-winning products—Texmati, Jasmati, Royal Blend, Couscous, Quinoa, and more—in our iconic BPA-free, fully recyclable jar. Check out the back of the Jasmati jar for complete cooking directions.
- REIMAGINE TRADITIONAL: Craft your favorite recipes in a whole new way with Mahatma Extra-Long-Grain Rice. This long-grain white rice works with any flavor combination and always turns out light and fluffy!
- EASY RICE: Prepare rice according to package directions. On a stovetop, add 1 cup rice to 2 cups boiling water for 20 minutes or until water absorbs. Alternatively, microwave the above measurements on HIGH for 5 minutes, for 15 minutes at 50% power, then let stand for 5 minutes.
- TRUSTED VEGAN FOOD: Our bulk white rice is 100% vegan and vegetarian, but that's not all. It's free from gluten, MSG, and preservatives and verified by the Non-GMO Project. It's even kosher, so you can gather everyone you love around your table!
- REWRITE RECIPES: Start your day with cheesy rice omelets. Try a rice salad, soup, or veggie burrito bowl for lunch. Build dinner with our rice and a protein like chicken. You can even craft dessert—pudding, pie, or a traditional Latin-American arroz con leche!
- HEART & SOUL OF THE FAMILY TABLE: Mahatma rice is for all who give so much of themselves to provide their families with the best life possible. For close to 100 years, we’ve poured our heart and soul into every bag of quality rice and grains—so you can enjoy it with those you love.
- REIMAGINE TRADITIONAL: Craft your favorite recipes in a whole new way with Mahatma Extra-Long-Grain Rice. This long-grain white rice works with any flavor combination and always turns out light and fluffy!
- EASY RICE: Prepare rice according to package directions. On a stovetop, add 1 cup rice to 2 cups boiling water for 20 minutes or until water absorbs. Alternatively, microwave the above measurements on HIGH for 5 minutes, for 15 minutes at 50% power, then let stand for 5 minutes.
- TRUSTED VEGAN FOOD: Our bulk white rice is 100% vegan and vegetarian, but that's not all. It's free from gluten, MSG, and preservatives and verified by the Non-GMO Project. It's even kosher, so you can gather everyone you love around your table!
- REWRITE RECIPES: Start your day with cheesy rice omelets. Try a rice salad, soup, or veggie burrito bowl for lunch. Build dinner with our rice and a protein like chicken. You can even craft dessert—pudding, pie, or a traditional Latin-American arroz con leche!
- HEART & SOUL OF THE FAMILY TABLE: Mahatma rice is for all who give so much of themselves to provide their families with the best life possible. For close to 100 years, we’ve poured our heart and soul into every bag of quality rice and grains—so you can enjoy it with those you love.
- REIMAGINE TRADITIONAL RICE: Craft your favorite recipes in a whole new way with Mahatma Jasmine authentic aromatic rice. This fragrant, slightly sweet rice cooks each rice grain separately and works anywhere classic white rice would, especially in Asian cuisines like Thai, Indian, or Cambodian.
- EASY RICE: Prepare rice according to package directions. On a stovetop, simmer 1 cup rice in 1 1/2 cups of water with olive oil or salt for 15 minutes or until water absorbs. Or, microwave 1 3/4 cups water and above ingredients on HIGH for 5 min, at 50% power for 10 minutes, then let stand for 5 minutes.
- TRUSTED VEGAN FOOD: Our classic Jasmine bulk rice bag is 100% vegan and vegetarian, but that's not all. It's free from gluten, MSG, and preservatives and verified by the Non-GMO Project. It's even kosher, so you can gather everyone you love around your table!
- REWRITE RECIPES: Jasmine Rice is commonly used in Thai, Indian, or Cambodian cuisine but also anywhere white rice is used. Craft an easy coconut lime rice side dish with meats and vegetables, a restaurant-style meal, rice salad, Mexican chicken and rice, Spanish rice, Indian or Thai curry, or fried rice.
- HEART & SOUL OF THE FAMILY TABLE: Mahatma rice is for all who give so much of themselves to provide their families with the best life possible. For close to 100 years, we’ve poured our heart and soul into every bag of quality rice and grains—so you can enjoy it with those you love.
- Store rice in a cool, dry place in an airtight container to preserve freshness and prevent moisture or pests
- AUTHENTIC FLAVOR: Long and fluffy, naturally aromatic, long grain Basmati rice; Aged for non-sticky texture and sweet flavor
- NATURALLY SOURCED: Sourced from local growers in Himalayan regions renowned for producing the finest crops
- VERSATILE WHITE RICE: Great long grain white rice for Indian food or Mexican food dishes; Add to curry, rice pilaf, stir fries, or enjoy as a side on its own
- NUTRITIOUS ROYAL RICE: Vegan, gluten-free, kosher, halal, non-fat, low sodium, and cholesterol-free
- EASY TO COOK: Ready to eat in 15 minutes; Simply cook on the stove top or in the microwave or electric cooker
Choosing the Best Rice for Your Rice Cooker: A Complete Buying Guide
Using a rice cooker makes cooking perfect rice easy. But even the best machine needs the right ingredient. Choosing the right rice matters a lot. This guide helps you pick the best grains for fluffy, delicious results every time.
Key Features to Look For in Rice
When buying rice for your cooker, focus on these main features:
- Grain Length and Shape: Long-grain rice (like Basmati or Jasmine) stays separate and fluffy. Medium-grain rice (like Arborio) gets slightly sticky. Short-grain rice (like sushi rice) clumps together well. Match the grain to the dish you want to make.
- Starch Content: Rice has two main starches: amylose and amylopectin. High amylose means fluffier, separate grains. High amylopectin means stickier rice. Check the package if you want specific textures.
- Processing Method: Decide if you want white, brown, or wild rice. White rice cooks fastest. Brown rice has the bran layer intact, making it healthier but requiring more water and cooking time.
Important Materials and Types
The “material” of the rice is simply its type. Different types offer different tastes and textures:
White Rice
This is the most common. Manufacturers remove the husk, bran, and germ. It cooks quickly and absorbs flavors well. Good for everyday meals.
Brown Rice
This rice keeps the healthy outer layers. It has a nuttier flavor. Remember, brown rice usually needs more water and a longer cook time in your machine.
Specialty Rices
Jasmine and Basmati are types of long-grain white rice known for their lovely smells. Sushi rice is a short-grain variety designed to be sticky.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes one bag of rice better than another for your cooker?
Quality Boosters
- Consistency: Look for rice where most grains are the same size. This ensures even cooking.
- Washing/Rinsing: Rinsing rice before cooking removes excess surface starch. This step greatly improves fluffiness and prevents gummy rice, especially with white rice.
- Age: Fresher rice often tastes better. Old rice can become dry and might not absorb water properly.
Quality Reducers
- Broken Grains: Too many broken pieces mean uneven cooking. Small pieces cook faster than whole grains.
- Improper Storage: Rice stored in damp or hot places can spoil or absorb strange odors. Always store rice in airtight containers.
User Experience and Use Cases
Your rice cooker performs best when you match the rice to the meal.
Fluffy Side Dishes
If you need rice to serve alongside curry or stir-fry, choose long-grain white rice like Jasmine. It stays light and won’t clump onto the main dish.
Sticky Meals
For dishes like sushi, Korean BBQ, or rice bowls where you need the rice to hold its shape, select short-grain or specific sticky rice varieties. These are engineered to stick together.
Health Focus
If health is your main goal, brown rice or whole-grain rice is the way to go. Expect a chewier texture and a slightly longer cooking cycle. Your rice cooker can handle it, but check your manual for specific brown rice settings.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Rice for Rice Cookers
Q: Can I use any type of rice in my rice cooker?
A: Yes, most rice cookers handle most types. However, you must adjust the water ratio and cooking time based on the rice type (e.g., brown rice needs more water than white rice).
Q: Does rinsing rice really make a difference in a rice cooker?
A: Absolutely. Rinsing washes away extra surface starch. This step prevents the rice from becoming overly sticky or gummy inside the cooker.
Q: Which rice cooks the fastest in a standard cooker?
A: Standard white rice cooks the fastest because it lacks the bran layer that brown rice has.
Q: What is the best rice for making perfect, fluffy Basmati rice?
A: Use long-grain Basmati. Always rinse it thoroughly until the water runs clear, and use a 1:1.5 rice-to-water ratio for best results.
Q: Why does my rice sometimes come out mushy in the cooker?
A: Mushy rice usually means too much water was added, or you used a high-amylopectin rice (like Arborio) when you wanted fluffiness.
Q: Can I store leftover cooked rice in the rice cooker pot?
A: You can keep it warm for a few hours. However, for longer storage, transfer the rice to an airtight container and refrigerate it within two hours.
Q: What is the difference between “instant rice” and regular rice in a cooker?
A: Instant rice is pre-cooked and dried. It cooks very quickly, often in just 5–10 minutes, but it lacks the texture of regular rice.
Q: Should I use the “Quick Cook” setting for all white rice?
A: The Quick Cook setting works well for small batches or standard white rice. For larger amounts or high-quality long-grain rice, use the standard setting for a more even cook.
Q: Does the brand of rice matter more than the type?
A: The type (long-grain vs. short-grain) matters most for texture. However, reputable brands generally have better quality control, meaning fewer broken grains.
Q: How do I cook brown rice successfully in a rice cooker?
A: You need more water, often a 1:2 or 1:2.2 rice-to-water ratio. Also, brown rice almost always requires using the “Brown Rice” setting or allowing a longer soak/cook time.