Rice Water Ratio Calculator
Find the water needed to cook rice by type.
Results update as you type.
How it works
Perfectly cooked rice depends on using the right amount of water for the variety, and this calculator gives it for you. You enter how many cups of rice you are cooking and select the rice type, and it returns the water needed, the approximate cooked yield, and the ratio used. Different types of rice absorb water differently, so a single ratio does not work for all. White rice typically uses about two parts water to one part rice, brown rice needs more at around 2.5 to one because its bran layer resists water, and fragrant long-grain varieties like basmati and jasmine use less, around 1.5 to one, to stay fluffy and separate. Wild rice, which is technically a grass seed, needs the most water at about three to one. Using too much water makes rice mushy, while too little leaves it undercooked and hard, so matching the ratio to the type is the key to good results. The calculator also estimates the cooked yield, since rice roughly triples in volume as it absorbs water and expands, helping you plan portions. These are standard stovetop absorption ratios; rice cookers, soaking, and altitude can shift them slightly, so adjust to your own results over time. Enter the rice amount and type to find the water and yield.
Water = rice × ratio (varies by rice type)
Different rice varieties absorb different amounts of water, so each has its own water-to-rice ratio: about 2:1 for white, 2.5:1 for brown, 1.5:1 for basmati and jasmine, and 3:1 for wild rice. Multiplying the rice quantity by the appropriate ratio gives the water needed; cooked rice roughly triples in volume.
Source:Cooking ratios
We review all our tools from time to time to ensure accuracy.
Worked example
How to use this calculator
- 1
Enter your values
Enter rice and rice type.
- 2
Adjust the options
Fine-tune any options to match your situation.
- 3
Read your result
Water needed updates instantly as you type — no button to press.
Frequently asked questions
What is the water-to-rice ratio?
It is the amount of water to use per unit of rice, and it depends on the variety. White rice uses about 2 parts water to 1 part rice, brown rice about 2.5 to 1, basmati and jasmine about 1.5 to 1, and wild rice about 3 to 1. The calculator applies the correct ratio for the type you select.
Why does brown rice need more water?
Brown rice retains its bran and germ layers, which are tougher and slow water absorption, so it needs more water and a longer cooking time than white rice, whose outer layers have been removed. Using the white-rice ratio for brown rice leaves it hard and undercooked, which is why the calculator uses a higher ratio for it.
Why do basmati and jasmine use less water?
Aromatic long-grain rices like basmati and jasmine are prized for a light, fluffy, separate texture. Using less water, around 1.5 parts to 1, prevents them from becoming sticky or mushy and keeps the grains distinct. Rinsing these rices before cooking to remove surface starch also helps achieve the ideal texture.
How much does rice expand when cooked?
Rice roughly triples in volume as it cooks, absorbing water and swelling. So one cup of dry rice yields about three cups cooked, though this varies a little by type. The calculator estimates the cooked yield to help you plan portions and choose the right pot size for the quantity you are making.
Do rice cookers use the same ratios?
Rice cookers work on similar absorption principles, but some models and instructions recommend slightly different amounts, and the cooker's design can affect evaporation. These calculator values are standard stovetop ratios and a good starting point. If your rice comes out consistently too wet or dry, adjust the water slightly and note what works for your equipment.