Air-Fryer Brown Rice: Quick, Easy, And Healthy

Brown rice is a healthy alternative to white rice, packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Cooking brown rice on a stove can be time-consuming and unpredictable, but an air fryer provides an easier and more consistent way to prepare this dish. In this article, we will discuss the benefits of using an air fryer to cook brown rice, the step-by-step process, and useful tips for achieving the perfect fluffy texture.

Rinsing the rice

Place the uncooked brown rice in a mesh strainer or a bowl. If using a bowl, make sure it has enough room to easily swirl the rice around.

Run the rice under cold or warm running water. Continue to rinse the rice until the water runs clear. This ensures that any excess starch is removed.

Thoroughly drain the rice. It is important to remove as much water as possible before proceeding to the next step.

If desired, you can add a pinch of salt to the rice and gently toss it with your hands or a spoon to coat each grain. This step is optional but can help enhance the flavour and texture of the rice.

Transfer the rinsed rice to the air fryer basket. If you seasoned the rice, make sure each grain is coated with oil before adding it to the basket.

Add water to the air fryer. The general liquid-to-rice ratio for brown rice is 2:1, so for every cup of rice, add two cups of water.

Cooking brown rice in an air fryer is a simple and convenient way to prepare this healthy dish. By rinsing the rice beforehand, you can ensure that your rice turns out fluffy and not sticky.

Adding the rice to the air fryer

Now that you have your ingredients ready, it's time to add the rice to the air fryer.

First, make sure you have rinsed the rice under warm or cold water. This will help remove any excess starch and prevent the rice from becoming sticky. You can use a mesh strainer for this step and rinse until the water runs clear.

Next, transfer the rinsed rice to your air fryer basket or a cake pan/barrel if you're using an air fryer oven. If you're using a basket-style air fryer, you can add the water or broth now. The liquid-to-rice ratio should be 2:1 for brown rice, so for every cup of rice, add two cups of liquid. You can also add a pinch of salt at this stage for some extra flavour.

If you're using an air fryer oven, you'll need to combine the rice and liquid in a separate bowl first, then transfer the mixture to your cake pan or barrel.

Once the rice and liquid are in the air fryer, it's time to set the temperature and cooking time. For basket-style air fryers, set the temperature to 375°F (190°C) and cook for 20 minutes, shaking the basket every 5 minutes to ensure even cooking. For air fryer ovens, preheat to 400°F/200°C for 5 minutes, then set the timer for 25 minutes.

And that's it! Your brown rice is now cooking in your air fryer. Remember to let the rice sit for a few minutes after cooking to allow it to finish steaming and to absorb any remaining liquid. Then, simply fluff with a fork and enjoy your perfectly cooked brown rice.

Cooking time and temperature

When cooking brown rice in an air fryer, the cooking time and temperature will depend on the type of rice you are using and the specific model of your air fryer. However, there are some general guidelines you can follow to ensure perfectly cooked brown rice.

First, it is important to rinse the brown rice under cold water to remove any excess starch. This will help prevent the rice from becoming sticky and gummy as it cooks. Once the rice is rinsed, you can transfer it to the air fryer basket along with water and a pinch of salt. The liquid-to-rice ratio should typically be 2:1 for brown rice, but this may vary depending on your preference and the specific type of brown rice you are using.

When it comes to cooking temperature, set your air fryer to around 375°F (190°C). You may need to experiment with the exact temperature setting, as some air fryers may cook at slightly different temperatures. Cook the rice for approximately 20 minutes, shaking the basket every 5 minutes to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.

Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the air fryer basket and allow the rice to rest for about 5 minutes. This resting time is crucial, as it allows the rice to continue steaming and absorb any remaining liquid, resulting in fluffy and tender grains.

Finally, use a fork to gently fluff the cooked rice, separating the grains and releasing any excess steam. Your perfectly cooked brown rice is now ready to be served as a side dish or used as a base for your favourite recipes.

It's important to note that cooking times may vary depending on the brand and model of your air fryer, so it's always a good idea to keep an eye on your rice as it cooks to prevent overcooking or burning. With these guidelines in mind, you'll be able to cook delicious and fluffy brown rice in your air fryer every time.

Fluffing the rice

It is important to note that the cooking time and temperature settings may vary depending on the brand and model of your air fryer. However, the general process of fluffing the rice remains the same. Additionally, if you are reheating cooked brown rice in an air fryer, you can follow similar steps by mixing the leftover rice with a bit of neutral-flavoured cooking oil and heating it in the air fryer until it is lightly golden and fragrant.

Storing and reheating the rice

Storing Cooked Brown Rice:

• Cooling: After cooking your brown rice in the air fryer, it's important to let it cool down. Place the rice in a wide, shallow container, and let it cool to room temperature within an hour. Spreading it out helps to release the heat faster.
• Storage Time and Containers: Once cooled, transfer the rice to an airtight container or a Ziploc bag. You can store cooked brown rice in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours or in the freezer for at least a month. The longer it sits in the freezer, the more moisture it loses, so consider using it within a month for optimal taste and texture.

Reheating Cooked Brown Rice:

• Microwave: For a quick reheat, place the rice in a microwave-safe container, cover it with a damp paper towel, and microwave for a minute or two. This helps retain moisture and prevent the rice from drying out.
• Air Fryer: For a crispier texture, put the rice back into the air fryer for a few minutes. You can also add a little oil or butter to enhance the crispness and flavour.
• Other Methods: You can also reheat rice in an Instant Pot or on the stovetop. Some people prefer using a wok or skillet for fried rice to achieve a classic crispy texture.

Tips for Reheating and Storing:

• Oil: When reheating rice in the air fryer, a neutral-flavoured cooking oil can help prevent the rice from drying out. A light coating of oil or butter can also add flavour and enhance the texture.
• Add-Ins: Leftovers like chicken or pork, and vegetables can be added to the rice during reheating for a heartier meal.
• Spices and Seasonings: Experiment with spices, herbs, and seasonings to elevate the flavour of your rice. Fresh herbs are best added after cooking.
• Moisture: To prevent rice from drying out, especially when reheating in the microwave, add a few droplets of water or cover it with a damp paper towel.
• Cooking Temperature: When reheating rice in a glass or Pyrex container in the air fryer, ensure that the cookware is at room temperature before heating. Do not place cold glassware directly into a hot air fryer.

Frequently asked questions