Simplify your meal prep routine with this "Plain Rice Make Ahead OAMC (Once-A-Month Cooking) Throw It in the Freezer" recipe, a time-saving kitchen hack that will transform how you prepare and store rice. With just three simple ingredientsโlong-grain white rice, water, and a touch of saltโthis recipe teaches you how to cook perfectly fluffy rice in under 30 minutes, cool it, and portion it for the freezer. Ideal for busy weeknights and meal planning, the rice reheats beautifully with a splash of water, maintaining its texture and flavor without clumping or drying out. This make-ahead freezer rice is not only a stress-free solution for versatile meal planning but also a savvy way to reduce food waste and save precious prep time on hectic days. Whether you're pairing it with stir-fries, curries, or hearty stews, this handy recipe ensures you're always ready to serve up a delicious, wholesome side dish in minutes!
Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming gummy when cooked.
In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, water, and salt. Stir to ensure the salt is evenly distributed.
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the water is fully absorbed and the rice is tender.
Turn off the heat and let the rice sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes. This allows the rice to steam and ensures a fluffy texture.
Fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains and let it cool completely. Spread the rice out on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper to help it cool faster.
Once the rice is completely cooled, divide it into portioned servings (e.g., 1-2 cups per portion) based on your household's needs.
Place each portion into a freezer-safe resealable bag or airtight container. Be sure to press out as much air as possible from the bags to prevent freezer burn.
Label each bag or container with the date and portion size, then place them in the freezer. The rice can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
To reheat, remove the desired portion of rice from the freezer. Microwave it with a splash of water (about 1 tablespoon per cup of rice) in a microwave-safe bowl, covered with a microwave-safe lid or damp paper towel, for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Stir halfway through reheating.
Calories |
520 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 1.1 g | 1% | |
| Saturated Fat | 0.3 g | 2% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 2393 mg | 104% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 112.7 g | 41% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.6 g | 6% | |
| Total Sugars | 0.2 g | ||
| Protein | 10.8 g | 22% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 98 mg | 8% | |
| Iron | 4.8 mg | 27% | |
| Potassium | 140 mg | 3% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.