How to Cook Rice in Foil

How to Cook Rice in Foil
Written By
Zora Hughes
Zora Hughes
Published: Dec 2, 2013
Updated: Jan 10, 2019
2 minute read
Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images

When a rice cooker or a pot on the stove isn't available or convenient, you can cook rice in foil, either in the oven or over hot coals in a campfire. You'll need to use instant rice for this type of cooking, but when done correctly, the results are just as tasty as traditionally-cooked rice. Cooking rice in foil is an ideal method for a family camping trip, or if you want to cook rice, meat and vegetables all together in individual serving packets.

Step 1

Cut a large square of heavy-duty aluminum foil, about 12-by-14 inches in size, and spray it lightly with cooking spray. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, if you plan on cooking the rice in the oven.

Step 2

Combine instant rice and water or chicken broth in a bowl and let it sit for about five minutes. Use an equal amount of rice and liquid, about 1/4 cup for each foil packet of rice you plan to cook. You can also add seasoning to taste, such as salt and pepper, to the rice. Drain any excess water after the five minutes.

Step 3

Spoon the moistened instant rice in the center of the foil squares. Fold the opposite ends of the foil over the rice, then roll up the ends to form a foil packet. Leave enough room for the rice to expand as it cooks.

Step 4

Poke a few holes in the foil packets to allow steam to release. Place the foil packet in the oven for 30 minutes, until the rice soft and fluffy. Alternatively, if you are cooking over a campfire outdoors, place the foil packet on a bed of hot -- but not flaming -- coals for 30 minutes, until the rice is fluffy.

Tips

You can add frozen chopped vegetables as well as cut up chicken, beef, or fish on top of the rice before cooking to create a foil packet meal.

Photo Credits

Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images

Zora Hughes

Based in Los Angeles, Zora Hughes has been writing travel, parenting, cooking and relationship articles since 2010. Her work includes writing city profiles for Groupon. She also writes screenplays and won the S. Randolph Playwriting Award…

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