Rice to Water Ratio Calculator
Easily scale rice recipes for any rice variety, pot, or rice cooker—adjust for altitude and soak times.
Add water at high elevation where boiling point is lower.
Water needed
3.90 cups
923 ml
Soak time
Optional
Enhances texture & consistency
Method
Stovetop simmer 18 minutes, rest 5 minutes covered.
Cooker adjustments
- Altitude adjustment: +0.0% water per cup
- Rice cooker adjustment: None
Tips
- Rinse until water runs clear to remove excess starch.
- Keep lid on during cooking to prevent steam loss.
How to Use This Calculator
Pick your rice variety
Different grains absorb water differently—choose the closest match for your recipe.
Enter rice quantity & conditions
Input cups of uncooked rice, your altitude, and whether you’re using a rice cooker or stovetop.
Follow the water ratio and method
Use the recommended water amount, soak time, and cooking method for consistent results.
Formula
Water cups = Rice cups × (Base ratio + altitude adj + cooker adj)
Altitude adj = floor(Altitude ÷ 300 m) × 0.03
Example: 3 cups jasmine rice at 1,500 m & rice cooker → 3 × (1.75 + 5×0.03 − 0.05) ≈ 5.7 cups water.
Tip: For firmer rice, reduce water by ~5%; for softer porridge, increase by 20%.
Full Description
Rice can go from fluffy to mushy with tiny water changes. This calculator removes guesswork by matching rice variety and cooking conditions to precise water ratios. It accounts for soaking, altitude, and rice cooker adjustments, so you can confidently scale recipes for families, meal prep, or catering.
Keep notes for your brand of rice—different producers can vary slightly. Adjust once, and you’ll replicate perfect rice every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to rinse rice?
Rinsing removes surface starch for fluffier rice. Exceptions: risotto or paella where starch aids creaminess.
How do I prevent boiling over?
Use a heavy pot with a tight lid, keep heat low once simmering, and add a drop of oil to reduce foam.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes. Ratios stay consistent—just ensure your pot or cooker has space for expansion.
What about pressure cookers?
Reduce water by 10% and use manufacturer timing guidelines; pressure reduces evaporation.