How much water is 75 grams of rice?

For a perfect single serving, 75 grams of rice typically requires 150 milliliters of water. This simple 1:2 weight-based ratio is a reliable starting point for most types of white rice, although slight adjustments can be made depending on the rice variety and your desired texture.

Quick Summary

The ideal water amount for 75 grams of rice is 150ml using a 1:2 weight ratio. This single serving metric helps achieve perfectly cooked, fluffy rice by following a consistent absorption method.

Key Points

• 150ml of Water: For a 75g serving of uncooked white rice, use 150ml of water, based on a standard 1:2 weight ratio.

• Rinse the Rice: Rinsing rice under cold water removes excess starch, resulting in fluffier, less sticky grains.

• Use a Tight Lid: A tight-fitting lid is essential for the absorption method, as it traps steam needed to cook the rice evenly.

• Allow it to Rest: After cooking, let the rice rest off the heat, covered, for 5-10 minutes to reabsorb any remaining moisture.

• Fluff with a Fork: Use a fork to gently fluff the rice before serving to separate the grains and release excess steam.

• Adjust for Rice Type: Different types of rice, like brown or sushi rice, require different water ratios. The 1:2 rule is best for white long-grain rice.

Understanding the Rice-to-Water Ratio for a Perfect Single Serving

Cooking rice can be surprisingly nuanced, with the final texture heavily dependent on a precise rice-to-water ratio. For a standard single serving of 75 grams of uncooked rice, the most widely recommended weight-based ratio is 1:2. This means you should use 150ml of water to cook your 75g of rice, resulting in a single portion that is consistently light and fluffy. This method is particularly popular in professional cooking and among those who use kitchen scales for accuracy.

However, the ideal ratio can vary based on several factors, including the type of rice, whether you rinse it, and your preferred texture. For example, long-grain white rice like Basmati or Jasmine often thrives on a 1:1.5 ratio by volume for a firmer grain, though a 1:2 ratio by weight is a very safe and common approach. Brown rice, due to its bran layer, requires more water and a longer cooking time.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking 75g of Rice

Here is a simple, foolproof guide to cooking a single 75g portion of rice using the absorption method.

1. Measure and Rinse: Accurately measure 75 grams of your chosen rice using a kitchen scale. Pour the rice into a fine-mesh sieve and rinse it under cool running water until the water runs clear. This step removes excess starch, which helps prevent the rice from becoming gummy.
2. Combine and Season: Place the rinsed rice in a small saucepan with a tight-fitting lid. Add 150ml of water and a small pinch of salt (optional). For extra flavor, a small amount of oil or butter can also be added.
3. Boil and Simmer: Bring the water to a boil over high heat. Once it reaches a rolling boil, give the rice one quick stir to distribute the grains, then immediately reduce the heat to the lowest possible setting.
4. Cover and Cook: Place the tight-fitting lid on the saucepan. Allow the rice to simmer gently for about 10-15 minutes, or until all the water has been absorbed. Avoid lifting the lid during this time, as it will release steam essential for proper cooking.
5. Rest and Fluff: Once the cooking time is complete, turn off the heat and let the pan sit, still covered, for another 5-10 minutes. This allows any residual steam to be reabsorbed, preventing a mushy texture. Finally, fluff the rice with a fork before serving.

Table: Water Ratios for Different Rice Types (by weight)

Rice Type	Water Ratio (by weight)	Cooking Notes
White (Long-Grain/Basmati)	1:2 (75g rice to 150ml water)	Standard, reliable ratio for fluffy rice.
Brown	1:2.5 (75g rice to 185ml water)	Requires more water and a longer cooking time due to the bran layer.
Jasmine	1:1.75 (75g rice to 130ml water)	Less water is sometimes preferred for a slightly drier, more separated grain.
Sushi/Short-Grain	1:1.25 (75g rice to 95ml water)	A lower ratio creates the stickier texture required for sushi.
Instant	1:1 (75g rice to 75ml water)	Designed for speed, these absorb water very quickly.

Why a Small Portion Requires Precision

Cooking smaller portions of rice requires more attention to detail than large batches. With less volume, the liquid can evaporate more quickly, increasing the risk of burning or undercooking the rice. The tight-fitting lid and resting period are especially crucial for a 75g portion to ensure the rice steams evenly and doesn't dry out. While cooking larger quantities is more forgiving, a small amount demands consistent temperature control and a well-sealed cooking vessel. This is why the absorption method is so effective, as it contains all the steam and moisture within the pot.

Alternative Cooking Methods

While the stovetop absorption method is a classic, other techniques can also be used for 75g of rice. A rice cooker, for instance, automates the process and is ideal for achieving perfect results every time. Many rice cookers come with a specific measuring cup, and you can simply follow the included instructions for small quantities. For a quick option, a microwave can also be used, but the water ratio may differ, often requiring slightly more liquid to compensate for faster evaporation. Regardless of the method, the final rest period remains a key step for optimal texture.

Conclusion

For a single serving of 75 grams of uncooked white rice, the answer is simple: use 150 milliliters of water. This is a reliable 1:2 weight ratio that, when combined with the proper cooking technique, will produce perfectly fluffy rice every time. By rinsing the rice, using a tight-fitting lid, and allowing for a resting period, you can avoid common pitfalls like gummy or undercooked grains. Whether you're cooking for one or practicing for larger meals, mastering the proportions for this small amount is a valuable kitchen skill.

For more tips and techniques on rice preparation, see this comprehensive guide from BBC Good Food. (https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/videos/techniques/how-cook-rice-video)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 75g of uncooked rice a standard portion size?

Yes, 75g of uncooked rice is a commonly cited standard portion size for a single person, especially when served alongside a main dish like a curry.

How much cooked rice does 75g of uncooked rice make?

75g of uncooked rice expands to approximately 205g when cooked. The weight more than doubles due to the absorption of water.

What happens if I use too much water for 75g of rice?

Using too much water can cause the rice to become mushy and sticky, as the grains absorb excessive moisture during cooking.

What if I don't have a kitchen scale to measure 75g of rice?

If you don't have a scale, you can use a small measuring cup. One uncooked rice cup (equivalent to about 75g of rice) requires a specific amount of water, though you can note the volume level it reaches in a jug for future reference.

Can I use the finger trick for 75g of rice?

Yes, the finger trick can be adapted. For a small portion, place your fingertip on the leveled rice and add water up to the first knuckle. You can test this once with a measured amount to find the right level for your preferred texture.

Does rinsing the rice change the amount of water needed?

Some cooks argue that rinsing can cause the grains to absorb water, potentially requiring a slight reduction in the amount of water added later. However, sticking to the standard 1:2 ratio is still a reliable method, especially for those new to this technique.

How do I prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pan?

To prevent sticking, ensure you reduce the heat to the lowest setting immediately after the water boils. Using a heavy-bottomed pan and not lifting the lid during simmering also helps maintain even heat.