Steaming Brown Rice: Rice Cooker Magic

Brown rice is a healthy whole grain that can be cooked in a variety of ways, including on a stovetop, in a rice cooker, or in an Instant Pot. While it can be tricky to get the right texture and consistency, cooking brown rice in a rice cooker is a simple and convenient option. With its nutty flavour, chewy texture, and nutritional benefits, brown rice is a great choice for a side dish or as a base for bowls, stir-fries, and more. In this article, we will explore the steps to cook perfect brown rice in a rice cooker, as well as provide tips and tricks for getting the best results.

Rinse the rice to remove excess starch

Rinsing rice is an important step in the cooking process, especially if you want to remove excess starch. This is true for both white and brown rice. Rinsing the rice will also remove any dirt and debris.

To rinse the rice, place it in a strainer and gently move the rice around with your hands under cold running water. You can also gently rub the grains between your fingers. Do this until the water starts to change colour, then pour out the water. Repeat this process at least twice, or until the water runs clear. Make sure to drain all the water when you're finished.

Rinsing rice is especially important if you want to cook it in a rice cooker. The rice cooker should not be opened during the cooking process, so you won't be able to add more water if the rice starts to dry out. Therefore, it's important to rinse the rice before cooking to ensure that any excess starch is removed.

Use a 2:1 water to rice ratio

Using a 2:1 water to rice ratio, you can steam brown rice in a rice cooker. This is a straightforward method that allows you to cook rice without worrying about it burning.

First, rinse your rice with cool water to remove any excess starch. This step is optional but will ensure your rice is fluffy and not gummy. Next, add one cup of rice and two cups of water to your rice cooker. If your rice cooker has a brown rice setting, use this; otherwise, simply turn it on. Do not remove the lid during the cooking process, as this will cause your rice cooker to lose steam and may result in crunchy rice.

Once your rice cooker indicates that it is done, let the rice rest for five minutes to finish absorbing the water. Then carefully remove the lid, watching out for steam, and fluff up your rice with a fork or rice paddle. Your brown rice is now ready to eat!

You can cook more than one cup of rice at a time, but be sure to maintain the 2:1 water-to-rice ratio. For example, if you are cooking two cups of brown rice, use four cups of water.

Cooking times may vary depending on the amount of rice and the type of rice cooker you are using. On average, one cup of brown rice takes about 45 minutes to cook.

Cook for 45 minutes

Cooking Brown Rice in a Rice Cooker

Step 1: Rinse the Rice

Rinsing the rice is an essential first step as it removes excess starch from the rice. This starch is responsible for making the rice clump together and become gummy as it cooks. Rinse the rice in a fine mesh strainer under cold running water until the water runs clear.

Step 2: Measure the Rice and Water

The ratio of water to brown rice in a rice cooker is always 2:1, meaning two cups of water for every cup of brown rice. So, for 1 cup of rice, add 2 cups of water to the rice cooker.

Step 3: Turn on the Rice Cooker

Place the lid on the rice cooker and press the button to turn it on. If your rice cooker has different settings, turn it to the brown rice setting.

Step 4: Cook for 45 Minutes

Do not open the lid during the cooking process as this will cause the rice cooker to lose steam and result in crunchy rice. Depending on your rice cooker, cooking one cup of rice generally takes about 45 minutes.

Step 5: Let the Rice Rest

Once your rice cooker alerts you that it is done, let the rice rest for 5 minutes to finish absorbing the water.

Step 6: Fluff the Rice

After the rice has rested, carefully remove the lid, watching out for steam. Use a fork or rice paddle to fluff up your rice. Your perfect brown rice is now ready to eat!

Let the rice rest for 5 minutes after cooking

Why You Should Let Your Rice Rest After Cooking

After your rice cooker has notified you that your rice is done, let it rest for at least 5 minutes before serving. This is a crucial step as it allows excess moisture to evaporate and gives your rice a chance to fully absorb the water, resulting in a plump and nice texture.

The Benefits of Resting Rice

Resting your rice for a few minutes after it has finished cooking helps to ensure that your rice is cooked evenly and has a consistent texture throughout. It also gives the rice time to absorb any remaining moisture, preventing it from becoming soggy. This is especially important if you plan to store your cooked rice in the fridge or freezer, as it will help to extend its shelf life.

How to Rest Rice

Once your rice cooker indicates that the rice is done, simply leave the cooker closed and let the rice sit for about 5 minutes. During this time, the rice will continue to steam, resulting in fluffy and tender grains. If you are in a hurry, you can eat the rice immediately after it is done cooking. However, waiting a few minutes will improve the texture and taste.

Tips for Resting Rice

• Use a rice cooker with a keep warm setting to maintain the temperature of the rice while it rests.
• If you are using a stove-top method to cook your rice, remove the pot from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 10 minutes before fluffing and serving.
• For best results, use a rice paddle or fork to fluff the rice gently before serving. This will help to separate any clumped-together grains and improve the texture.

Fluff the rice with a fork or paddle

Once your rice is cooked, it's time to fluff it up! This is a crucial step in achieving that perfect, not-too-chewy, not-too-soggy texture. Use a fork or a rice paddle to gently lift and separate the rice grains. Be sure to do this step carefully, as the rice will still be hot.

If you're using a fork, gently insert it into the rice at an angle and gently lift the rice, moving the fork in a circular motion to avoid mashing the grains. If you're using a rice paddle, gently slide it under the rice and lift, using a gentle flipping motion to fluff the rice. Be sure to fluff the rice evenly, paying attention to the edges of the rice cooker, where the rice may be stickier.

Fluffing the rice not only gives it a lighter, airier texture but also helps to distribute any remaining moisture evenly, ensuring that each grain is perfectly cooked. It's a simple step, but it makes a big difference in the final result, taking your rice from ordinary to extraordinary!

Remember, it's important to wait until the rice is done cooking and has rested for a few minutes before fluffing it. Don't fluff the rice while it's still cooking, as this can affect the final texture. Also, be sure to use a gentle touch when fluffing; you don't want to mash or crush the delicate grains. With a little care and attention, you'll have perfectly fluffed rice that's ready to be served and enjoyed!

Frequently asked questions