Can You Freeze Cooked Rice?
Yes, cooked rice freezes well and is a convenient way to have ready-to-use rice on hand. Properly stored frozen rice keeps for up to 6 months and reheats quickly in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Key Takeaways
- Freezing cooked rice is safe and practical.
- Rice should be reheated to steaming hot (165°F/74°C) to ensure food safety.
- Some rice varieties like sushi rice may have slight texture changes after freezing.
Explanation
Freezing cooked rice is safe and practical. The key is to cool the rice quickly after cooking and freeze it within an hour to minimize bacterial growth. Spread rice on a baking sheet to cool rapidly before portioning.
Store rice in airtight containers or freezer bags, pressing out excess air. Portion sizes of 1-2 cups work well for easy meal prep. Label containers with the date for tracking freshness.
To reheat, add a splash of water to the rice and microwave covered for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. Alternatively, reheat in a covered pan on the stovetop with a little water until steaming hot throughout.
Things to Know
- Rice should be reheated to steaming hot (165°F/74°C) to ensure food safety.
- Some rice varieties like sushi rice may have slight texture changes after freezing.
- Fried rice and rice dishes with sauces also freeze well.