How to Cook Brown Rice

The secret to cooking perfect brown rice lies in getting the water to brown rice ratio correct. Once you get that correct, it’s only a matter of turning off the heat when the rice is done.

The method I use to cook perfect brown rice every time is called the absorption method. I find it’s the easiest and most consistent way to cook brown rice, and it eliminates the guesswork.So, what’s the water to brown rice cooking ratio?

1 cup of brown rice to 2 cups of water.

Instructions:

1. Put 1 cup brown rice and 2 cups water in a saucepan with lid.
2. When water starts to boil, turn heat down to a simmer, and cover. Simmer for 30 minutes or until all the water has been absorbed and there is no water standing at the bottom of the pan.
3. Remove from heat, cover and let stand for 5-10 minutes.
4. Serve.

Coconut Rice

If you’re lucky enough to get fresh coconut, save the juice and use it to make coconut rice. I used the juice from a mature coconut, but you could also use the juice of a young Thai coconut as well. The coconut juice adds a delicate, sweet flavor that compliments just about any dish. It’s great with stir-fried vegetables, or marinated tofu or tempeh.

This is really nice garnished with the roasted shallots bits that you can sometimes find in Asian food shops. But it would also be nice with roasted garlic as well.

Ingredients:
1 cup brown rice
1 cup fresh coconut juice
1 cup water
2 T fresh coconut, finely grated
dash of salt

Instructions:
Wash and drain brown rice and add to saucepan. Add water, coconut juice and salt. Cover saucepan and put on stove over medium heat.

Grate 2 T fresh coconut, if you are using it. Add to saucepan, and cover again.

When liquid starts to boil, turn heat down to low and simmer for about 45 minutes, covered. Turn off heat and leave to set, covered, for 10 minutes.

Fluff with fork and serve.

Serves 2.