A bowl of basmati rice.

Think Twice Before Freezing Cooked Rice

NEWS

By HILARY WHEELAN REMLEY

A bowl of cooked rice.
While freezing cooked rice is safe and seems convenient, it’s generally preferable to cook rice as needed or store leftovers in the refrigerator for shorter durations.
Cooked rice in a pot with a spoon.
This is because frozen cooked rice does not hold up upon reheating. Thawing can break down the cell walls of your rice, causing it to take on an unpleasant mushy texture.
A person holding a refrigerator door partially open.
In fact, even reheating your refrigerated cooked rice can alter it. However, there are a few techniques you can use to reheat rice while preserving its taste and texture.
Three ice cubes on a cream surface.
If you’re in a pinch for time, microwave your rice with an ice cube. Doing so will help your reheated rice retain moisture and perk it up rather than dry it out.
A woman looking inside an oven while holding its door.
Alternatively, you can use the oven. Add a few tablespoons of water to the rice, cover it with foil, and place it in an oven preheated to 300 degrees Fahrenheit for 20 minutes.