Food Guide

Arborio Rice

Buying Tips

Buy arborio rice in the packaged grain section of your health food or grocery store. It is also sold in bulk at many health food stores. When buying bulk arborio rice, look for intact kernels that aren’t broken, scratched, or damaged.

Varieties

White arborio rice is most commonly available. It comes in brown, too, but the texture is not as creamy.

Preparation, Uses, & Tips

Preparing arborio rice differs from most other rice preparations in that the liquid is added a little at a time, rather than all at once, and arborio rice must be stirred as it cooks. These steps help to release starches and promote creaminess.

In a heavy saucepan combine 1 cup of rice with 1 1/2 cups (375mL) of water or stock and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium, stirring constantly until liquid is absorbed. Add an additional 3 cups (750mL) of water or broth 1 cup (250mL) a little at a time, cooking and stirring until liquid is absorbed each time. Cooking time is approximately 20 minutes. Use in making risotto, or add finely chopped mint and diced cucumber and serve chilled as a salad.

To reheat rice, for each 1 cup (200g) of cooked rice, add 2 Tbsp (30mL) liquid. Cover and heat four to five minutes on top of range or in oven. In a microwave oven, cook on High about 1 1/2 minutes per cup (200g).

Storing

Store uncooked rice in a cool, dry area in a sealed glass or plastic container, away from the open air and moisture. Cooked rice can be refrigerated for up to seven days, or stored in the freezer for six months.

Nutrition Highlights

Arborio rice, 1 cup (200g) (cooked)

  • Calories: 242
  • Protein: 4.4g
  • Carbohydrate: 53.4g
  • Total Fat: 0.353g

*Good Source of: Iron (2.76mg)

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The information presented in the Food Guide is for informational purposes only and was created by a team of US–registered dietitians and food experts. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements, making dietary changes, or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires December 2025.