Simmer brown rice for 45 minutes if you want a simple side. To make simple brown rice, put 1 cup (about 180 grams) of rice in a strainer and rinse it with cool water to remove dust. Put the rice in a pan with 2 cups (470 mL) of water and 1 teaspoon (4.16 g) of salt, then bring the water to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, tightly cover the pot, and let the rice simmer for 45 minutes without stirring or checking on it. After 45 minutes, the water should be absorbed and your rice should be tender. Turn off the heat and let the rice sit with the cover on for 10-15 minutes.