Rice to Water Ratio Calculator
By Santaji GadepatilinUpdated October 27, 2026
Different types of rice need different amounts of water. The right ratio gives fluffy, perfectly cooked rice. This free rice to water ratio calculator solves for whichever value you leave blank and shows the formula and steps.
How to use the rice to water ratio calculator
Choose the rice type and enter the amount of rice. The water needed and approximate servings are calculated. Switch units to ml or metric cups if you prefer.
Example
2 cups of basmati → 3 cups of water, about 4 servings.
Ratios are for the absorption method on a stovetop with a tight lid. Rice cookers and pressure cookers may need slightly less water.
Water ratios by rice type (absorption method)
| Rice | Water per cup of rice | Cooking time |
|---|---|---|
| Long-grain white | 1.5–1.75 cups | 15–18 min |
| Basmati (rinsed, soaked) | 1.5 cups | 12–15 min |
| Jasmine | 1.25–1.5 cups | 12–15 min |
| Short-grain / sushi | 1.1–1.25 cups | 15 min + rest |
| Brown rice | 2–2.5 cups | 40–45 min |
| Wild rice | 3–4 cups | 45–55 min |
| Parboiled | 2–2.25 cups | 20 min |
Cooked yield
1 cup of uncooked white rice makes about 3 cups cooked. Brown rice makes about 3–3.5 cups.
Rice cookers and pressure cookers
- Rice cooker: follow the marks inside the bowl; they assume the cooker’s own cup (about 180 mL).
- Pressure cooker (Indian style): 1 : 2 for white rice is common for softer rice; 1 : 1.25 for an electric pressure cooker.
Rinsing and soaking
Rinsing removes surface starch for fluffier rice. Soaking basmati for 20–30 minutes helps long, separate grains and reduces the water needed slightly.
Resting
Let rice stand covered for 5–10 minutes after cooking. Steam finishes the grains and makes them easier to fluff.
Frequently asked questions
How much water for 1 cup of rice?
It depends on the variety — about 1.5 cups for basmati, 2 for long-grain white and 2.25 for brown rice (absorption method).
Should I rinse rice?
Rinsing removes surface starch for fluffier grains. Soaked basmati may need a little less water.
How much rice per person?
About ½ cup (around 90 g) uncooked rice for a main-course portion.
How much water for 2 cups of rice?
About 3–3.5 cups for long-grain white rice using the absorption method.
How much uncooked rice per person?
About ½ cup (90–100 g) uncooked for a main-course portion.