Jeera rice is a simple and aromatic dish made with cumin seeds, rice, and spices. It offers a unique flavor while providing numerous health benefits, such as aiding digestion and offering a rich source of iron.
In today’s fast-paced world, a microwave offers a quick and convenient option for preparing this flavorful dish.
This article will walk you through a simple microwave jeera rice recipe and everything you need to make it at home.
In the following sections, you’ll find the microwave jeera rice recipe ingredients, essential tools required for preparation, and step-by-step cooking instructions. We’ll also share tips for perfect results, answer frequently asked questions, and discuss several variations of this recipe to add variety to your meals.

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Recipe Overview
Prep time | Cook time | Total time | Serving | Calories | Microwave Power Settings |
5 minutes | 10 minutes | 15 minutes | 2 servings | 210 kcal per serving | 800W |
Ingredients
This section will outline the ingredients required to cook jeera rice in the microwave. You will need just a few ingredients for this simple and quick microwave recipe.
Let’s take a look:
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 1 tablespoon cumin seeds (jeera)
- 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup water
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon turmeric for color and flavor
Now that we have the ingredients, let’s explore the essential tools needed for a smooth and efficient microwave cooking experience.
Check out microwave creamed rice recipe.
Tools for Cooking Jeera Rice in Microwave
Microwave cooking can be dangerous if suitable tools are not being used. It’s important to use microwave-safe cookware to avoid any accidents.
A list of safe microwave tools needed for cooking jeera rice is enlisted following:
- Microwave-safe bowl or dish with a lid
- Microwave-safe measuring cup
- Spoon for stirring
- Microwave-safe plate or cover to prevent splatters
With all the ingredients and tools ready, it’s time to start cooking.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Now that you have gathered all the necessary ingredients and prepared the right tools, you’re ready to begin cooking.
Follow these simple steps to cook the aromatic jeera rice in the microwave.
- Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the rice, ghee or oil, and cumin seeds.
- Microwave on high for 2 minutes to lightly toast the cumin seeds.
- Add water and salt to the bowl, then stir the ingredients well.
- Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or plate, leaving a small gap for steam to escape.
- Microwave the rice on high for 8 minutes or until the rice is fully cooked and the water is absorbed.
- Let the rice sit for 2 minutes before fluffing it with a fork.
A perfectly cooked jeera rice should be fluffy and fragrant after 10 minutes of microwave cooking. To serve, you can pair it with curries, grilled vegetables, or yogurt, offering various meal options.
After exploring the detailed step-by-step cooking method, let’s dive into some essential tips for safe microwave cooking.
5 Tips to Cook Perfect Jeera Rice in Microwave
Now that you know how to make jeera rice in the microwave, here are some pro tips to help you avoid kitchen mishaps and achieve the best results with your recipe:
- Adjust for wattage: Different microwaves have varying power levels. Adjust the cooking time based on your microwave’s wattage for better results.
- Use a lid: Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid to prevent splattering and help the rice cook evenly.
- Stir halfway: Stir the rice halfway through cooking to ensure even heat distribution and prevent clumping.
- Check the water level: If the rice isn’t fully cooked, add a little more water and microwave for a few more minutes.
- Fluff the rice: After cooking, fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains and achieve a light texture.
With safety tips covered, let’s now look at some different ways to cook jeera rice in the microwave.
Check out Uncle Ben’s rice recipe for microwave cooking.
5 Quick & Easy Jeera Rice Recipes in Microwave
A variety of microwave jeera rice recipes offers great benefits, making it easier to enjoy different flavors and textures in a short amount of time.
In this section, we will explore five fast and easy cooking recipes to cook jeera rice in the microwave.
1. Simple Jeera Rice
For a quick and simple version, cook basmati rice with cumin seeds and ghee. Microwave the mixture with water until the rice is soft. This easy recipe brings out the natural flavors of cumin and is perfect for pairing with curry or vegetables.
2. Jeera Rice with Peas
Add frozen peas to the simple jeera rice for a pop of color and extra nutrients. Combine the peas with the cumin seeds and rice, then microwave. The peas bring sweetness and a light crunch, balancing the warm cumin flavor in the dish.
3. Jeera Rice with Garlic
To elevate the flavor, add finely chopped garlic to the jeera rice. Sauté the garlic with cumin seeds before microwaving with rice and water. The garlic provides an aromatic, savory touch that complements the cumin, making this version a tasty addition to any meal.
4. Spicy Jeera Rice
For those who like it spicy, add chopped green chilies and a pinch of red chili powder. Microwave with rice, cumin seeds, and water for a zesty variation. This spiced version offers an extra kick, making it a great side dish for spicy curries or grilled meats.
5. Jeera Rice with Lemon
Add a tangy twist by mixing in fresh lemon juice after cooking the jeera rice. The acidity of the lemon brightens the dish, balancing the earthiness of cumin. This fresh version can be served alongside salads or grilled fish for a refreshing meal.
These alternatives—such as adding peas, garlic, or lemon—can make your meal more exciting and versatile, making it easy to switch things up while enjoying the same dish in different ways.
Check out microwave sushi rice recipe.
This sums up our section of microwave recipe variations. Now, we will move forward with some of the common queries regarding cooking jeera rice in the microwave.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Let’s address some of the most common questions about this recipe. This section ensures you have all the details you need for well-cooked jeera rice.
Can I make jeera rice with leftover rice in the microwave?
Yes, you can make jeera rice with leftover rice in the microwave. Simply heat the rice with ghee, cumin seeds, and water. Microwave it for a few minutes, and you’ll have fresh, flavorful jeera rice in no time.
How do I prevent my jeera rice from being soggy in the microwave?
To prevent soggy jeera rice, use the correct water-to-rice ratio. The general ratio is 1 cup of rice to 1.5 cups of water. Also, make sure to fluff the rice after cooking to avoid clumping.
How do I know when my jeera rice is fully cooked in the microwave?
You can check if the jeera rice is fully cooked by ensuring the water has been absorbed and the rice grains are tender. If the rice isn’t done, microwave it for an additional minute and check again.
Can I add vegetables to my microwave jeera rice?
Yes, adding vegetables to your microwave jeera rice is simple. You can microwave peas, carrots, or even bell peppers with the rice and cumin for a colorful, healthy addition to the dish.
How can I make my microwave jeera rice spicier?
To make your microwave jeera rice spicier, add chopped green chilies or a pinch of red chili powder before microwaving. This will add extra heat and flavor to your dish.
This wraps up our section on frequently asked questions about microwave jeera rice recipes.
Final Word
Microwave jeera rice recipes offer quick and easy ways to enjoy this flavorful dish. From the simple jeera rice to variations like garlic, peas, or spice, each recipe brings something unique to the table. These variations provide versatility and ease, making them perfect for busy days.