Wild rice yields when cooking are not the same as rice. Also, although not many people know this, there are several types of wild rice you might find in a grocery store, and the cooking time will vary for each of these. Below is the amount of water to use for specific amounts of wild rice, followed by the approximate cooking times for each type of wild rice: Black, brown, blond, quick (instant), or broken.
However, you are not likely to make most of the specific amounts included here, let alone the huge amounts included, which would be extremely expensive. I’ve include them for your convenience, just in case.
To cook wild rice, use three parts water to one part rice. You can also cook your wild rice in broth of your choosing.
Recommended: Lundberg Family Farms Organic Wild Rice
Amount of Water to Use for Wild Rice
| Wild Rice Amount (cups) | Water Amount (cups) |
|---|---|
| 1/4 cup | 3/4 cups |
| 1/3 cup | 1 cup |
| 1/2 cup | 1 1/2 cups |
| 2/3 cup | 2 cups |
| 3/4 cup | 2 1/4 cups |
| 1 cup | 3 cups |
| 1 1/4 cups | 3 3/4 cups |
| 1 1/3 cups | 4 cups |
| 1 1/2 cups | 4 1/2 cups |
| 1 2/3 cups | 5 cups |
| 1 3/4 cups | 5 1.4 cups |
| 2 cups | 6 cups |
| 2 1/2 cups | 7 1/2 cups |
| 3 cups | 9 cups |
Approximate Cooking Times for Different Wild Rice Types
| Black Wild Rice | 45 to 60 minutes |
|---|---|
| Brown Wild Rice | 30 to 45 minutes |
| Blond Wild Rice | 10 to 20 minutes |
| Quick or instant wild rice | 3 to 10 minutes |
| Broken wild rice | 15 to 25 minutes |
Wild rice does not have to be cooked to a specific degree of doneness. Some people like it cooked to a softer consistency, and some people like it a bit chewier.
The best result, for most, is when some, but not all, of the kernels are split open so that you can see the lighter color inside them. This gives wild rice that is tender but still has the nice chew that most people like in their wild rice.
To cook, just combine the rice, water or broth, and salt in a saucepan and bring to a boil. Cover and reduce heat to simmer and cook until most of the moisture has been absorbed and the rice has reached its desired consistency.
Sometimes, more water than usual might be needed, but it is better to start with less and add more than to start with too much.
If you do end up with excess liquid even after the rice is the degree of doneness you want, you can strain it off, or take off the lid and allow the water to gently evaporate over low heat.
Should You Rinse Wild Rice?
Generally, yes, you should rinse wild rice before you cook it as it may be dirty. It is not cleaned and milled like white rice. Just place the wild rice in a strainer and run cold water over it, while stirring it with your fingers to help get any dirt off.
You May Be Interested in These Articles
Discover more from CulinaryLore
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.