Portion calculator
Rice Calculator
Work out how much dry rice and water to use for any number of servings.
Calculate rice and water
Your result
Recommended rice cooker
COSORI 10-Cup Rice Cooker
This 18-in-1 fuzzy-logic cooker has dedicated settings for white, brown, long-grain and medium or short-grain rice, plus a ceramic-coated inner pot. A useful option when you cook rice regularly or need a larger batch.
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Rice portions and water ratios
The calculator starts with ¼ cup (about 45 grams) of dry rice per person. That is a moderate side-dish portion. Increase it when rice is the center of the meal or when you want leftovers.
| Rice | Starting water ratio | For 4 servings |
|---|---|---|
| Long-grain white | 1 cup rice : 1½ cups water | 1 cup rice + 1½ cups water |
| Jasmine | 1 : 1¼ | 1 cup rice + 1¼ cups water |
| Basmati | 1 : 1½ | 1 cup rice + 1½ cups water |
| Brown | 1 : 1¾ | 1 cup rice + 1¾ cups water |
Why your pot may need a different amount
These ratios are useful starting points for stovetop cooking, not universal laws. A wide pot loses more steam than a narrow one. A loose lid allows more evaporation. Soaking lets grains absorb water before cooking, and some rice varieties are milled or aged differently. Use the package directions when they differ.
A reliable stovetop method
- Measure the rice and water accurately.
- Rinse if the recipe or rice style calls for it, then drain well.
- Bring to a boil, cover, reduce to the lowest steady heat and avoid lifting the lid.
- When the water is absorbed, remove from heat and rest covered for 10 minutes.
- Fluff with a fork and evaluate before changing the ratio next time.
Common fixes
Hard rice: add a small splash of hot water, cover and cook gently for a few more minutes. Mushy rice: use slightly less water next time and avoid stirring. Scorched bottom: lower the burner or use a heavier pot.