Reheating leftover rice to get the soft, fluffy texture of freshly prepared rice can be a challenge. When I cook rice, I always make enough for leftovers. We use it the next day in all sorts of dishes or just as the perfect side dish again.
However, when storing it in the refrigerator, the rice’s starch molecules start to form microscopic crystals, resulting in dry, hard rice. This dry texture is preferable for making fried rice. However, if you are looking for the perfect moist, fluffy texture of freshly cooked rice, you’ll need to take some extra care when reheating it.
What is the best way to reheat leftover rice?
If you’ve been on TikTok lately, you’ve probably seen the trendy method of using the microwave and an ice cube to reheat rice. We went out searching for the answer, what is the best way to reheat leftover rice.
The Kitchn tested seven different methods. They used two different types of rice: long-grain Jasmine rice and short-grain Calrose rice. Each batch was cooked using a rice cooler, then cooled, and stored in airtight zip-top bags in the refrigerator.
The goal for reheating the rice was to achieve reheated rice that resembled freshly cooked rice as close as possible; soft and fluffy, yet tender without being soggy.
- Microwave with a mug of water. Not recommended as both rice varieties were dry and chewy.
- Oven with water. This oven method worked very well for short-grain rice. However, the long-grain rice was a bit too soft.
- Microwave with ice cube. Surprisingly, the ice did not melt, yet the short-grain rice had a nice soft texture. It did not work as well for the long-grain rice.
- Microwave with water and plastic wrap. This method resulted in mediocre results, kind of soggy with patches of a hard, crunchy texture.
- Stovetop with water. Both rice varieties tasted light and fluffy. The trick is to place a cover on the pot and just let the rice sit in the steam for 5 minutes. This little adjustment is the secret to reheating rice on the stove top. It tastes just like it did when it first came out of the rice cooker.
- Microwave on low heat with damp paper towel. Not recommended as both the short-grain and long-grain rice was overcooked, dried out, and crunchy.
- Microwave on high heat with damp paper towel. Both varieties resulted in a light and fluffy rice. This method is the winner for being the go-to method if you want to reheat your rice in a hurry. It is quick and easy, and the rice turns out very close to freshly cooked rice.
The Winner is:
So, what’s the best way to reheat leftover rice? There are two best, and both are easy ways. The winning method is the stovetop with water; however, if you are in a hurry, microwave method on high with a damp paper towel as it is the fastest method with good results.
Can reheating rice cause food poisoning?
Yes, there is a risk of food poisoning when reheating rice. Rice is more problematic than some other leftover foods as it may contain bacteria called Bacillus cereus, which survive some cooking processes.
According to Medical News Today, this bacterium is often the cause of food poisoning from reheated or cooked rice. Food poisoning usually causes diarrhea and vomiting and can cause severe complications in people with other health issues.
However, handling food correctly can prevent illness. Here are some tips to help you reheat rice safely:
- Store cooked rice properly: After cooking rice, cool it quickly and store it in the refrigerator or freezer. Divide it into shallow food containers and seal them with a lid. Do not leave rice or any hot food sitting out for more than one hour, and always store rice at 40 F or below.
- Reheat rice thoroughly: When reheating rice, make sure it is piping hot throughout. Check that the internal temperature is above 165°F.
- Dispose of leftover rice properly: Dispose of leftover rice in the fridge after three to four days. Dispose of leftover rice in the freezer after three to four months.
How to Reheat Rice Safely
Reheat rice thoroughly. When reheating rice, make sure it is piping hot throughout. According to the U. S. Department of Agriculture, make sure the rice is heated to 165 degrees Fahrenheit. It is best to use a thermometer to check the internal temperature. Here are four ways to reheat leftover rice.
To microwave leftover rice.
Remove the lid from the airtight container. For each cup of rice, add 1 to 2 tablespoons of water. Place the lid lightly back on top to allow the rice to re-steam. Warm in the microwave for 3 to 4 minutes, or until piping hot throughout.
To reheat rice in the oven.
Spread the rice out in an even layer in a shallow baking dish. Add a splash of water or vegetable stock to the pan and cover tightly with aluminum foil. Bake for about 20 minutes at 300°F, or until the rice has been thoroughly reheated.
To steam leftover rice on the stovetop method.
Place the rice in a saucepan with 1–2 tablespoons of butter or oil. Add 1–2 tablespoons of water for each cup of rice and bring to a simmer. Keep the lid on the saucepan. Stir occasionally. Once the water has boiled off, turn off the heat and let the rice sit for 5 minutes with the lid on.
To stir-fry leftover rice.
Place the rice in a wok or sauté pan with your choice of oil. Use medium heat to medium-high heat. Break up the clumps of rice and stir continuously to cover the rice evenly in oil. Serve immediately when piping hot.
What are some common mistakes people make when reheating rice?
There are a few common mistakes people make when reheating rice that can lead to food poisoning. Here are some of them:
- Leaving rice at room temperature for too long: Rice should not be left at room temperature for more than two hours.
- Not storing rice properly: After cooking rice, cool it quickly and store it in the refrigerator or freezer. Divide it into shallow food containers and seal them with a lid.
- Reheating rice improperly: When reheating rice, make sure it is piping hot throughout.
- Reheating rice multiple times: Reheating rice multiple times can increase the risk of foodborne illness, especially from bacteria like Bacillus cereus. Each time rice cools and reheats, it goes through temperature ranges that are conducive to bacterial growth.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can safely reheat rice and enjoy it without worrying about getting sick.
How can I tell if my leftover rice has gone bad?
It can be difficult to tell if leftover rice has gone bad, but there are some signs to look out for. If the rice smells sour or has a strange odor, it may have gone bad. If the rice is slimy or sticky, it may have been contaminated with bacteria and should not be eaten. Rice that has been stored in the refrigerator for more than four days, it should be discarded.
What is the best way to store leftover rice?
The best way to store leftover rice is to cool it quickly and store it in the refrigerator or freezer.
After cooking rice, divide it into small portions. Place in shallow food containers and seal them with a lid.
Cooked rice should be fully cool within a couple hours (ideally, one hour). The easiest way to cool rice quickly is to spread it out on a rimmed, lined baking sheet. With more surface area exposed to the air, the rice will cool faster than if it were crammed in a container.
Dispose of leftover rice in the fridge after three to four days or if in the freezer for four months.
How to Reheat Rice Safely
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Kitchen Essentials
Ingredients
- 1 Cup Leftover Rice
- 2 Tablespoons Water
- 1 Tablespoon Butter optional
Instructions
To microwave leftover rice.
- Remove the lid from the airtight container. For each cup of rice, add 1 to 2 tablespoons of water. Place the lid lightly back on top to allow the rice to re-steam. Warm in the microwave for 3 to 4 minutes, or until piping hot throughout.
To reheat rice in the oven.
- Spread the rice out in an even layer in a shallow baking dish. Add a splash of water or vegetable stock to the pan and cover tightly with aluminum foil. Bake for about 20 minutes at 300°F, or until the rice has been thoroughly reheated.
To steam leftover rice on the stovetop method.
- Place the rice in a saucepan with 1–2 tablespoons of butter or oil. Add 1–2 tablespoons of water for each cup of rice and bring to a simmer. Keep the lid on the saucepan. Stir occasionally. Once the water has boiled off, turn off the heat and let the rice sit for 5 minutes with the lid on.
To stir-fry leftover rice.
- Place the rice in a wok or sauté pan with your choice of oil. Use medium heat to medium-high heat. Break up the clumps of rice and stir continuously to cover the rice evenly in oil. Serve immediately when piping hot.
Your Own Private Notes
Nutrition
What Is Fried Rice Syndrome? TikTok Draws Attention to Dangers of Reheating Leftover Rice
Fried Rice Syndrome is a type of food poisoning caused by the bacteria Bacillus cereus that can grow in leftover rice. The bacteria can produce toxins that are heat-resistant and can survive even after reheating the rice. Symptoms of this kind of food poisoning include vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps, which can be severe and last for several days.
How to Prevent Fried Rice Syndrome
Washing rice before cooking it can help remove some of the bacteria that cause Fried Rice Syndrome, but it is not a foolproof method to prevent it. According to Live Science, the best way to prevent Fried Rice Syndrome, it is important to store cooked rice in the refrigerator within an hour of cooking it. Rice should be stored in a sealed container and reheated only once the next day.
It is also important to reheat leftovers to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit before eating. Leftovers in the fridge should not be consumed if they have been there for more than four days.
Starchy foods like pastas, noodles, rice, and other cooked meals must be properly refrigerated to prevent Fried Rice Syndrome. It is recommended to avoid storing and reheating leftover rice as much as possible.
What are some recipes that use leftover rice?
Wondering what to do with that day-old rice? Here are some delicious rice recipes:
- Fried Rice: This is a classic recipe that is a great way for using up leftover cold rice. If fact, leftover rice is preferred for this recipe as it fries up nicely without sticking to the pan. You can add any vegetables or protein you have on hand to make it your own stir fry with a bit of sauce too.
- Stuffed Peppers: Use leftover rice to stuff bell peppers for a quick and easy dinner.
- Rice Pudding: Go from savory to sweet by using leftover rice to make rice pudding.
- Casserole: Turn a cup of yesterday’s rice into tonight’s casserole dinner.
- Mexican Rice Bake: This recipe is loaded with brown rice, fresh vegetables, and lean protein.
- Kimchi Fried Rice: This is a humble dish made with leftover rice, kimchi, cubed ham, and vegetables, but don’t be fooled—it’s packed with flavor.
- Rice and Bean Burritos: Use leftover rice to make these delicious and filling burritos. Here’s a recipe that’s vegetarian and packed with protein.
I hope these rice dishes recipe ideas inspired you to use up your leftover rice in creative and delicious ways.
