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Big-Batch Rice

This big-batch rice recipe is a versatile staple for any kitchen, offering a foolproof method for preparing large quantities of fluffy, perfectly seasoned grains. By adding a touch of vinegar and salt to the boiling water, the rice maintains a clean flavour and excellent texture, making it an ideal base for various vegan dishes. It is a fantastic time-saver for busy households, ensuring you always have a nutritious component ready for your next meal.

Preparing a large amount of rice at once is a brilliant strategy for healthy meal prepping and batch cooking. Once cooled and frozen in flat layers, these portions can be transformed into quick fried rice, added to seasonal vegetable soups, or served alongside a rich curry. This method not only reduces food waste but also simplifies your midweek cooking routine while keeping your plant-based diet varied and satisfying.

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Ingredients for Big-Batch Rice

  • 1 tablespoon plus 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt

  • 1 tablespoon distilled white vinegar or rice vinegar

  • 900g rice (about 1200ml ), rinsed until water runs clear, drained

Bring 4325ml water to a boil in a large covered pot over high heat. Stir in salt and vinegar. Add rice, reduce heat to medium, and bring to a simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, until rice is cooked through but not mushy (taste it: it should still be slightly al dente), 10–20 minutes, depending on variety of rice. Working in batches if needed, strain through a fine-mesh strainer.

If not serving immediately, spread rice in an even layer on a rimmed baking sheet and let cool. Transfer to resealable freezer bags, pat down into an even layer (so it defrosts more quickly), and freeze up to 4 months. To defrost, transfer frozen rice to a microwave-proof bowl and sprinkle with a bit of water. Cover and microwave rice on high in 1-minute bursts until warmed through. Alternately, place rice in a saucepan and add a splash of water. Cover and cook over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding more water if needed, until warmed through. If using in a soup, add frozen rice directly to soup and cook until heated through.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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