Steaming Rice: Black+Decker Style

Cooking rice in a Black & Decker steamer is a simple and healthy way to prepare rice without the added fats of frying or sautéing. Using a steamer also frees up stove space, making it a convenient alternative for those with limited cooking areas. The process is straightforward: first, place the steamer near a power outlet and fill the water reservoir to the designated line. Next, add rice and water to the rice bowl, secure the lid, and set the timer. The cooking time will vary depending on the type and amount of rice, but for perfect rice, it's important to refer to the owner's manual for specific instructions. Once the timer goes off, carefully open the steamer, stir the rice, and check if it needs more time. When the rice is done, unplug the steamer and remove the cooked rice, being mindful of steam burns. With the Black & Decker steamer, you can easily cook rice to perfection and create healthy meals.

How to Cook Rice in a Black and Decker Steamer

Place the steamer on a solid surface near a power outlet

To cook rice in a Black & Decker steamer, the first step is to place the steamer on a solid surface near a power outlet. This is important for two reasons: firstly, you need to ensure your steamer is stable and secure on a solid, flat surface to avoid any accidents or spills. Secondly, being close to a power outlet ensures easy access to electricity, which is necessary for the cooking process.

When choosing a location for your steamer, opt for a sturdy countertop, table, or another similar surface that can accommodate the steamer's size and weight. Make sure there is enough clearance around the steamer, allowing for proper ventilation and easy access during the cooking process.

Additionally, being near a power outlet is crucial for a constant and reliable power supply. The steamer requires electricity to operate, and having a power source within reach ensures you can easily plug it in and start the cooking process. It is also a safety precaution, as it reduces the need to use extension cords, which could potentially overload the outlet or create a trip hazard.

By placing the Black & Decker steamer on a solid surface near a power outlet, you are taking the first step towards preparing perfectly cooked rice. This simple yet important step sets the foundation for a safe and efficient cooking experience with your steamer.

Fill the water reservoir to the designated line

Filling the water reservoir to the designated line is an important step in cooking rice in a Black & Decker steamer. This ensures that your rice is cooked properly and avoids any issues that may arise from using too much or too little water.

Firstly, always use cold tap water to fill the reservoir. The designated line will be marked inside the reservoir, so you know exactly how much water to add. It is important to refer to your owner's manual for the exact amount of water needed, as this can vary depending on the type and amount of rice you are cooking. For example, the manual for the Black & Decker HS90 Handy Steamer Plus specifies that to cook 1 cup of brown rice, you will need 1 1/4 cups of water.

When filling the reservoir, be careful not to exceed the designated line. Adding too much water can affect the cooking process and may result in mushy or overcooked rice. On the other hand, adding too little water can lead to undercooked or dry rice. Therefore, it is crucial to follow the recommended water level for the best results.

The water reservoir plays a vital role in creating the optimal cooking environment for the rice. By providing the correct amount of water, you ensure that the steamer generates the right amount of steam necessary for cooking the rice evenly and thoroughly. This helps to achieve the desired texture and consistency, resulting in perfectly cooked rice every time.

In addition to following the designated line, it is important to only use water in the reservoir and not other liquids like broth. The water serves as the primary medium for steaming, and using other liquids may alter the cooking process and affect the final outcome. Therefore, always fill the reservoir with water as indicated, and if you want to add flavour, you can use broth or juice in the rice bowl, as mentioned in the later steps of the rice-cooking process.

Add rice and water to the rice bowl

When preparing rice in a Black & Decker steamer, the first step is to gather your ingredients and measure out the required amounts of rice and water. The specific quantity of water will depend on the type of rice being cooked; always refer to the owner's manual for the exact amount of water needed. For instance, if you're cooking 1 cup of brown rice in the Black & Decker HS90 Handy Steamer Plus, the required amount of water is 1 1/4 cups.

Once you've measured the ingredients, it's time to add them to the steamer. Start by filling the water reservoir with cold tap water up to the designated line. Do not use any liquids other than water, such as broth. Place the steaming bowl on top of the base. Next, you'll need to add the rice and water to the rice bowl. Carefully place the rice bowl containing the rice and water inside the steaming bowl.

It's important to note that the rice and water go directly into the rice bowl, not into the base of the steamer. The base of the steamer is filled with water to facilitate the steaming process, while the rice cooks in the designated rice bowl. Make sure to secure the lid tightly to ensure proper steaming.

After adding the rice and water to the rice bowl, you can proceed to set the timer on the steamer. The cooking time will vary depending on the type and amount of rice being cooked. For brown rice, a longer cooking time is generally required compared to white rice. It's recommended to start with the minimum suggested cooking time and adjust as needed.

Set the timer according to the type and amount of rice

The Black & Decker steamer can be set for up to 75 minutes of cooking time. The exact cooking time will depend on the type and amount of rice you are preparing.

For example, if you are cooking white rice, set the timer for 35-36 minutes for one cup of rice. For brown rice, set the timer for 50-52 minutes for the same amount.

If you are cooking long-grain rice, such as basmati, a 1-to-2 ratio of rice to water is recommended. This means that for every cup of rice, you will need two cups of water, and the cooking time will be around 20 minutes.

For shorter-grain rice, such as Spanish Valencia or Calrose, a 1.25-to-1 ratio of water to rice will result in a stickier texture. In this case, use 1 1/4 cups of water for every cup of rice, and cook for around 15-20 minutes.

It's important to note that the cooking time may vary slightly depending on your preferred texture. For firmer rice, reduce the cooking time, and for softer, stickier rice, increase it. Additionally, the specific model of your Black & Decker steamer may have different guidelines, so be sure to refer to the owner's manual for the most accurate information.

Carefully remove the cooked rice when it's done

Once the rice is cooked, it's time to carefully remove it from the Black & Decker steamer. Here are some detailed, step-by-step instructions to ensure you do this safely and effectively:

Place the steamer on a solid surface near a power outlet, keeping it stable and easily accessible. This is important as you'll be handling hot components and want to minimise the risk of any accidents.

Before you open the steamer, always ensure that you unplug it from the power source. This is a crucial safety step as it prevents any accidental burns or injuries from steam or hot surfaces.

Use oven mitts or pot holders to protect your hands from the heat. The steaming bowl, in particular, will be very hot, so it's important to cover your hands adequately before attempting to handle it.

Slowly and carefully, open the cover of the steamer. Do this with caution as hot steam will escape, and you want to avoid any burns. Keep your face and hands clear of the opening to minimise the risk of injury.

Now, you can remove the steaming bowl from the base of the steamer. Again, use those oven mitts or pot holders to handle the bowl, as it will be hot. Be gentle and cautious during this step.

With the steaming bowl removed, you can then take out the rice bowl by its handles. This inner bowl should also be handled with care as it, too, will be hot. Place the rice bowl on a heat-resistant surface or a trivet to avoid damaging your countertop or table.

By following these careful steps, you can safely and effectively remove the cooked rice from your Black & Decker steamer. Remember, it's always important to prioritise safety when handling hot appliances and to take your time to avoid any potential hazards. Now, you can enjoy your perfectly cooked rice!

Frequently asked questions