Steaming Brown Rice: The Perfect Oven Method

Brown rice is a versatile ingredient that can be used as a base for curries, stir-fries, fried rice, and grain bowls. It has an earthy, nutty flavor and is packed with fiber and nutrients. While some people find cooking brown rice tricky, it can be done easily in a steam oven. In this article, we will discuss the benefits of cooking brown rice in a steam oven, provide step-by-step instructions, and offer tips for achieving perfect, fluffy rice.

Rinsing the rice

The amount of rinsing required can depend on your preferences for rice texture. For example, if you prefer your rice with a softer texture, a shorter rinse will leave some starch on the grains, helping to create a softer, stickier texture when cooked. Conversely, a longer, more thorough rinse will remove more starch, resulting in rice with a firmer, less sticky texture.

It is worth noting that, while rinsing is important, it is not mandatory. If you are short on time, you can skip the rinsing step, and your rice will still turn out edible, although it may have a slightly starchier texture.

After rinsing, the rice is ready to be cooked. However, it is important to ensure that your cooking vessel is suitable for steam cooking. Stainless steel pans are recommended, and thick ceramic or glass dishes should be avoided as they can affect cooking times and the evenness of steaming.

Rice-to-water ratio

The rice-to-water ratio is an important aspect of cooking brown rice in a steam oven, as it ensures the rice is cooked properly and has a fluffy texture. Here is a detailed guide on the ideal rice-to-water ratio for cooking brown rice:

The standard rice-to-water ratio for cooking brown rice is typically 2 cups of water for every 1 cup of rice. This ratio is essential to ensure the rice absorbs the right amount of water and cooks evenly. It is worth noting that the rice should be well-rinsed before cooking to remove excess starch and prevent it from becoming gummy.

When cooking brown rice in a steam oven, it is recommended to follow the same rice-to-water ratio guidelines as you would for cooking it on a stovetop. The steam oven provides consistent heat and moisture, so maintaining the correct ratio is crucial for optimal results.

It is worth noting that the type of rice cooker or steam oven can also impact the rice-to-water ratio. Some rice cookers come with their own scoops, which may vary in size, affecting the amount of rice and water used. Therefore, it is advisable to use traditional dry measuring cups or a scale to ensure accuracy and consistent results.

Additionally, the age of the rice and the humidity of the climate can also impact the required amount of water. Older rice tends to be drier and may require more liquid and longer cooking times. Similarly, in humid climates, the rice may need more liquid to absorb and cook thoroughly.

For short-grain brown rice, the ratio is slightly different. For every dry measuring cup of short-grain brown rice (approximately 191 grams), you will need 10 fluid ounces of water. This ratio ensures the rice cooks evenly and becomes slightly sticky, which is ideal for dishes like sushi.

In summary, when cooking brown rice in a steam oven, maintain a careful rice-to-water ratio of 2:1, using 2 cups of water for every 1 cup of brown rice. Rinse the rice before cooking, and be mindful of the type of rice cooker and environmental factors that may require slight adjustments to the ratio. With the correct ratio and cooking method, you'll achieve perfectly cooked, fluffy brown rice every time.

Oven temperature

The oven temperature you set will depend on the type of rice you are cooking. For brown rice, you should set your oven to 375°F. Place a rack in the middle of the oven and use an 8-inch x 8-inch baking dish, or a similar-sized pan.

For long-grain white rice, such as jasmine or regular long-grain, the oven should be set to 100°C/212°F on the steam-only setting (100% humidity). If you have a full-sized steam oven, set the timer for 22-23 minutes to allow extra time for the larger oven cavity to heat up. For a compact steam oven, 20 minutes should be sufficient.

If you are using a multi-tiered steamer, bamboo steamer, or a makeshift steaming method, the heat should be turned on high.

Cooking time

The cooking time for brown rice in a steam oven will vary depending on the amount of rice being cooked, the type of rice, and the specific model of the steam oven. However, on average, you can expect the cooking process to take around 25-60 minutes.

When cooking brown rice in a steam oven, it is essential to follow the correct ingredient ratios and cooking times to ensure perfect results. The general rule of thumb is to use a ratio of 1 cup of brown rice to 2-2.5 cups of water. This ratio can be adjusted slightly depending on personal preferences for rice texture. For softer rice, a ratio of 1:2.5 is recommended, while a ratio of 1:2 is suitable for those who prefer their rice with a firmer texture.

Before cooking, it is important to rinse the rice thoroughly to remove any excess starch. This can be done by placing the rice in a fine mesh strainer and rinsing it under running water until the water runs clear.

Once the rice is rinsed and the correct rice-to-water ratio is measured out, combine the rice and water in a large, shallow stainless steel pan. It is recommended to use a thin, even layer of rice in the pan for even cooking.

Place the pan in the steam oven and set the temperature to 100°C/212°F on the steam-only setting, ensuring 100% humidity. For a full-sized steam oven, set the timer for 22-23 minutes to account for the larger oven cavity. If using a compact steam oven, 20 minutes should suffice.

When the timer goes off, carefully remove the pan from the oven and fluff the rice with a fork. Allow the rice to sit for 2 minutes before serving to ensure it is fully cooked and to prevent mushy rice.

It is worth noting that cooking times may vary depending on the age of the rice and the humidity of the climate. Older rice tends to be drier and may require more liquid and longer cooking times. Additionally, the cooking vessel can also impact the cooking time. It is recommended to use a solid pan made of stainless steel, as glass or thick ceramic dishes may take longer to cook the rice evenly.

Fluffing the rice

Firstly, it is important to use the correct rice-to-water ratio when cooking. For brown rice, a ratio of 1 cup of rice to 2 cups of water is recommended. This will ensure that the rice absorbs the right amount of water and doesn't become too mushy or dry.

When the rice is cooked, turn off the heat and let the pot sit, covered, for about 10 minutes. This step is crucial as it allows the rice to finish absorbing the water and ensures that it is tender and fluffy.

After the resting period, it's time to fluff the rice. Remove the lid from the pot and use a fork to gently fluff and separate the grains. Be careful, as there will be a lot of steam released when you remove the lid. Gently stir and lift the rice with the fork to ensure that all the grains are separated and there are no clumps.

If you are using a steam oven, follow the same process. After the rice has finished steaming, carefully remove the pan from the oven and fluff the rice with a fork. It is important to use oven mitts or pot holders to protect your hands from the hot pan.

Once the rice is fluffed, let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This final step helps to ensure that the rice is not mushy and allows it to cool down slightly.

Fluffing rice is a simple but important step in the cooking process. It helps to create light and fluffy rice, perfect for stir-fries, bowls, and salads. By following these steps and allowing the rice to rest and absorb the water, you will achieve perfectly cooked brown rice every time.

Frequently asked questions