Foolproof Baked Brown Rice
A reliable method for perfectly fluffy grains without the stovetop guesswork
Why This Recipe Works
Baking brown rice in a sealed dish creates a gentle, even heat that prevents the grains from scorching or becoming gummy. This hands-off technique is ideal for multi-tasking while the rest of dinner comes together.
Instructions
Adjust an oven rack to the middle position and heat the oven to 375°F.
Combine the boiling water, rice, oil, and salt in an 8-inch square baking dish.
Cover the dish tightly with a double layer of aluminum foil—a tight seal is essential to trap the steam needed to soften the bran.
Bake until the liquid is fully absorbed and the rice is tender, about 1 hour.
Remove the dish from the oven, uncover it, and fluff the rice with a fork, being sure to scrape up any grains that have stuck to the bottom.
Cover the dish with a clean kitchen towel and let the rice rest for 5 minutes; this allows the moisture to redistribute so the rice isn't wet.
Uncover and let the rice sit for 5 minutes longer to allow excess steam to escape.
Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve while hot.
🍽️ Complete the Meal
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze this recipe?
Refrigerate up to 4 days. Freezes well for 2 months.
What substitutions can I make?
- long-grain brown rice: medium-grain or short-grain brown rice
