Ella Walter
Brown rice is a healthy alternative to white rice, but it can be tricky to cook. It can take a long time to get perfectly fluffy and moist grains. However, using an Aroma rice cooker and steamer can help take the guesswork out of it. This guide will walk you through the steps of cooking brown rice in an Aroma steamer, from preparing the rice to serving it. By following these steps, you can enjoy perfectly cooked brown rice with minimal effort.
How to cook brown rice in an aroma steamer
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Rinse rice | Rinse the rice inside the inner pot with water until the water becomes fairly clear. Drain all water from the pot. |
| Rice to water ratio | For 2 cups of rice, add 2 1/2 cups of water. If cooking wild or brown rice, add an additional 3/4 cup of water over what's required for cooking white rice. For softer rice, add more water. |
| Rice type | Long grain brown rice |
| Rice weight | 178 grams |
| Water amount | 10 fluid ounces |
| Cook time | 45 minutes to 1 hour |
| Rest time | 5 minutes |
What You'll Learn
Rinsing the rice
For those using an Aroma rice cooker, the rinsing process is similar. After measuring the desired amount of rice using the provided measuring cup, pour the rice into the inner pot of the cooker. Rinse the rice inside the pot with water, continuing until the water becomes clear. Drain all the water from the pot before proceeding to the next step.
If you are using a steamer basket, a slightly different method is required. Place the desired amount of rice in a dish with a cover and pour in enough water to cover the rice. Allow the rice to soak for at least two hours. After soaking, drain the rice in a colander. This process helps to ensure the rice is thoroughly cleaned and prepares it for the steaming process.
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Rice-to-water ratio
The rice-to-water ratio is an important aspect of cooking brown rice in an Aroma steamer. Using the right amount of water ensures that the rice turns out fluffy and moist, without being mushy or undercooked.
The ratio of rice to water depends on the type of brown rice being used. For long-grain brown rice, the ratio is typically 1 cup of rice to 10 fluid ounces of water. This means that for every 178 grams of long-grain brown rice, you would use 10 fluid ounces of water.
For short-grain brown rice, the ratio is slightly different. The recommended ratio is 1 cup of short-grain brown rice (approximately 191 grams) to 10 fluid ounces of water. Adjustments may be needed if you are cooking more than one cup of rice; simply adding more water in proportion to the amount of rice will ensure it cooks properly.
When cooking brown rice in an Aroma steamer, it is also important to consider the type of rice cooker being used. Different rice cookers may have different scoop sizes, which can affect the amount of rice and water needed. It is recommended to use a standard measuring cup or a scale to ensure accurate measurements.
Additionally, the timing may vary slightly depending on the rice cooker. It is important to follow the instructions provided with your specific rice cooker for the best results. In general, cooking brown rice in an Aroma steamer typically takes around 45 minutes to 1 hour on the "normal" setting.
By using the appropriate rice-to-water ratio and following the instructions for your Aroma steamer, you can achieve perfectly cooked brown rice that is fluffy, moist, and slightly chewy.
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Cooking time
The cooking time for brown rice in an Aroma steamer will depend on the quantity of rice you are cooking. For example, if you are cooking two cups of rice, you will need to add 2 1/2 cups of water and steam for 65 to 70 minutes. The rice should then be left to sit for 10 minutes.
If you are cooking one cup of brown rice in an Aroma steamer, it will usually take around 45 minutes to one hour on the "normal" setting. However, it is always best to follow the instructions in your steamer's manual, as different models may vary slightly.
It is important to note that you should never open the lid of your steamer during the cooking process, as this can affect the texture and doneness of the rice. Always wait until the cooker has indicated that it is ready. For the best results, you can even leave the rice to rest in the cooker for about five minutes before opening it. This allows the excess moisture to be absorbed into the grains, giving them a nice and plump texture.
If you are in a hurry, some Aroma steamers have a "quick" setting that can reduce the cooking time while still giving you the same results.
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Resting the rice
After the rice has rested, it is important to use a rice paddle to fluff it. This will help to separate the grains and ensure that they are all cooked evenly. If you are not eating the rice right away, it can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
To reheat the rice, place it in a bowl with a sprinkle of water and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat it in 30-second intervals, depending on the amount of rice, to prevent it from drying out.
If you want to freeze the rice for longer storage, it can be placed in zip-top freezer bags and laid flat to squeeze out the air before sealing. To use frozen rice, thaw it in the fridge for about 12 hours before microwaving it with a sprinkle of water until it is warmed through.
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Storing and reheating
Storing Brown Rice:
It is important to cool your rice before storing it. Bacteria called Bacillus cereus, which can cause food poisoning, may grow on leftover rice. To reduce bacteria growth, cool your rice by dividing it into shallow containers, sealing them with a lid, and placing it in the fridge or freezer. You can also place hot rice directly into the fridge or freezer. Do not leave rice sitting out for more than an hour.
Store leftover rice in an airtight container or a zipped plastic bag, ensuring all air is removed before sealing. The USDA recommends storing leftover rice in the fridge for no more than 3-4 days or in the freezer for 3-4 months. Label and date your rice so you know how long it has been stored.
Reheating Brown Rice:
When reheating rice, it is important to ensure it reaches a high temperature to kill any bacteria. Reheat your rice until it is steaming hot all the way through. You can reheat rice in the microwave, on the stove, in the oven, or in an air fryer. Here are detailed instructions for each method:
Microwave:
Place the rice in a microwave-safe bowl and add 1-2 tablespoons of water per cup of rice. Cover the bowl loosely and microwave for 3-4 minutes or until piping hot throughout. Check that the internal temperature of the rice has reached 165°F or higher with a food thermometer.
Stove:
Place the rice in a saucepan with 1-2 tablespoons of butter or oil. Add 1-2 tablespoons of water per cup of rice and bring to a low simmer. Keep the pan covered and stir occasionally. Once the water has boiled off, check that the internal temperature of the rice is 165°F or higher.
Oven:
Preheat the oven to 160 degrees Fahrenheit. Spread the rice over a baking tray and break up any clumps. Add 2 tablespoons of water and cover the rice with foil. Allow the rice to heat through for about 20 minutes. Check that it is piping hot before serving.
Air Fryer:
Place the rice in the air fryer and cover it with aluminium foil. Cook for 5-6 minutes or until the rice is hot.
Remember, you should only reheat rice once. Enjoy your leftover brown rice!
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Frequently asked questions
First, rinse the rice in a fine mesh strainer until the water runs clear. Next, add the rice to the steamer with the appropriate amount of water. The ratio of rice to water is typically 1:2. Close the steamer and turn it on. The rice should be steamed for 65-70 minutes. Let the rice sit for 10 minutes before serving.
It takes 65-70 minutes to steam brown rice in an Aroma steamer.
The ratio of brown rice to water in an Aroma steamer is typically 1:2.
Yes, you can cook brown rice in an Aroma steamer.
