Emilie Meyer
Cooking rice in a steamer oven is a foolproof method that yields perfectly cooked grains while preserving the nutritional value and natural flavours of this versatile staple. It is a simple process that can be done in a steamer on a stovetop or an electric steamer. The steps are straightforward: rinse the rice, add water or broth, steam, and then fluff. The rice-to-water ratio is key, and the cooking time varies depending on the type of rice and the steamer used.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Rice-to-water ratio | 1:1.3 for jasmine rice; 1:1.5 for softer rice; 1:1.1 for short-grain rice; 1:2 for brown rice |
| Rice soaking time | 10 minutes minimum; do not over-soak |
| Steamer water temperature | Cold water; do not use boiling water |
| Steaming time | 20 minutes; 15-20 minutes if using a stove |
| Resting time | 5 minutes minimum |
| Rice texture | Fluff with a fork to separate the grains |
Rinsing the rice
To rinse the rice, start by placing it in a fine-mesh sieve, a strainer, or a bowl. Cover the rice with cold water and use your fingers to gently swish it around. You will notice that the water becomes cloudy as the starch is released from the rice. Drain this cloudy water and repeat the process until the water runs clear. It usually takes around three to five rinses to properly clean the rice, but for some types of rice, such as Thai long-grain rice, two rinses may be sufficient.
After rinsing, the rice should be drained thoroughly. Some recipes recommend pre-soaking the rice for about 10 minutes after rinsing. However, it is important not to over-soak the rice, as this can lead to broken grains.
Once the rice is rinsed and drained (or soaked and drained), it is ready to be cooked in the steamer oven. Simply follow the remaining steps in your chosen recipe for cooking rice in a steamer oven, and enjoy perfectly cooked, fluffy rice!
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Rice-to-water ratio
The rice-to-water ratio is a crucial factor in determining the texture and doneness of the rice. The ratio will vary depending on the type of rice being used and your desired consistency. Here is a detailed guide to help you achieve the perfect rice-to-water ratio when cooking rice in a steamer oven:
For long-grain white rice, the classic method starts with a 2:1 ratio of water to rice. This means that for every two parts of water, you should add one part of rice. However, if you prefer slightly firmer rice, you can adjust the ratio to 1 part water to 2/3 parts rice.
When it comes to steaming rice, the ratio is typically different from the classic method. For steaming long-grain white rice, a common ratio is 1:1.5 or 1:1.3. This means that for every cup of rice, you would add between 1.3 and 1.5 cups of water. This ratio can be adjusted based on your preferred texture. For firmer rice, you can reduce the amount of water slightly, and for softer, stickier rice, you can add a little more water.
It is worth noting that the rice-to-water ratio may also vary depending on the specific type of rice being used. For example, when cooking short-grain rice, the ratio can be reduced to 1:1.1. Additionally, if you choose to rinse your rice before cooking, you may need to reduce the amount of water slightly, as rinsing adds moisture to the rice.
Now, let's apply these ratios to some common measurements. If you are cooking one cup of long-grain white rice in a steamer, you would use between 1.3 and 1.5 cups of water. This translates to approximately 315-360 millilitres of water for every 235 grams of rice. Similarly, for 1.5 cups of rice, you would use between 1.95 and 2.25 cups of water, or about 465-540 millilitres of water for 350 grams of rice.
In summary, the rice-to-water ratio is a key factor in achieving your desired rice texture. When steaming long-grain white rice, a good starting point is a 1:1.3 or 1:1.5 ratio, which can be adjusted for firmer or softer rice. Remember to consider the specific type of rice and whether you are rinsing it before cooking, as these factors may require slight adjustments to the water quantity.
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Rice types
There are countless varieties of rice, from long-grain to short grain, brown, red, black, and wild rice. Here are some of the most common types of rice and their characteristics:
- Basmati Rice: Delicate flavour and long, slender grains.
- Jasmine Rice: Fragrant and slightly sticky.
- Brown Rice: Nutty and chewy.
- Red, Black, and Wild Rice: Dark and chewy with a distinct flavour.
- Short-Grain Rice: Can include sushi rice and has a sticky texture.
When cooking rice in a steamer oven, the rice-to-water ratio may vary depending on the type of rice and your desired consistency. For example, for a firmer texture, use less water, and for a softer, stickier rice, add more water. Here are some specific rice-to-water ratios for different types of rice:
- Long-grain white rice: 1 cup of rice to 1.5 cups of water.
- Short-grain rice: 1 cup of rice to 1.1 cups of water.
- Jasmine rice: 1 cup of rice to 1.3 cups of water for a firmer texture, or 1.5 cups of water for a softer texture.
Additionally, the cooking time may also vary depending on the type of rice. For example, white rice typically cooks in 20-25 minutes, while brown rice may take 40-45 minutes.
No matter which type of rice you choose, be sure to rinse it before cooking to remove any excess starch and impurities. Then, simply follow the steps outlined previously to cook your rice to perfection in a steamer oven!
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Rice cooker vs steamer
Rice is one of the most widely consumed foods globally, and cooking it well is an art. Two of the most popular methods for preparing rice are using a rice cooker or a steamer. While both appliances have their advantages and can produce delicious rice, there are some key differences to consider when deciding which one is right for you. In this comparison, we will explore the pros and cons of each to help you determine which is the best fit for your needs.
Rice Cookers
Rice cookers are simple yet effective appliances. They cook rice by boiling water, which is then absorbed by the rice grains. Basic models typically have an on/off switch, while more advanced cookers may have additional features like a non-stick finish or a steamer tray. Fuzzy logic rice cookers can even keep your rice warm for hours. Rice cookers are very convenient, especially if you eat rice regularly, as they produce perfectly cooked rice with minimal effort.
Steamers
Steamers, on the other hand, use steam to cook food. They are placed over pots or pans of boiling water, or in the case of electric steamers, you pour water into the base. Steamers are not just for rice; they are primarily used for steaming fish and vegetables, but they can also be used to cook rice. Steaming rice gives you fluffy, separate grains, and it preserves the nutritional value and natural flavours.
Pros and Cons
Rice Cooker Pros:
- Perfectly cooked rice every time
- Very convenient, especially for regular rice eaters
- Some models can also steam vegetables and fish
- No need to monitor the cooking process
- Automatic shut-off features prevent overcooking or burning
Rice Cooker Cons:
- May not be suitable for small servings, as most require a minimum amount of rice
- Limited functionality—mainly used just for rice
Steamer Pros:
- Versatile—can cook various foods, including rice, vegetables, seafood, and dumplings
- Healthier option—steaming removes fat, lowers cholesterol, and retains vitamins and minerals in food
- Easy to clean—no oily residue
- Stackable baskets allow for cooking multiple foods simultaneously
Steamer Cons:
- Longer cooking time compared to rice cookers
- Requires monitoring to avoid overcooking
- May not be suitable for large servings of rice
Both rice cookers and steamers are excellent options for preparing rice and have their unique advantages. If you regularly consume rice and want a simple, no-fuss option, a rice cooker is ideal. On the other hand, if you prioritise versatility and health benefits, a steamer might be the better choice. Ultimately, the decision depends on your personal preferences and cooking needs.
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Seasonings
- Salt
- Butter or olive oil
- Spices like cumin, turmeric, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, sage, or oregano
- Fresh or dried herbs like parsley, basil, chives, or cilantro
- Chicken, vegetable, or mushroom broth or stock
- Lemon or lime juice
- Ginger
- Sesame oil
- Soy sauce
- Taco seasoning
- Creole seasoning
- Curry powder
- Red pepper flakes
- Japanese furikake (seaweed-flake-based seasoning)
- Seasoned rice vinegar
- Bay leaves
- Cinnamon
- Cardamom pods
- Nuts (e.g. crushed pistachios)
When adding seasonings to rice in a steamer oven, it is important to adjust the water-to-rice ratio accordingly and to be mindful of the amount of liquid and seasonings used to ensure the rice cooks properly. Additionally, some seasonings may be added during the cooking process, while others are best added after the rice is cooked.
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Frequently asked questions
The best way to cook rice in a steamer oven is to follow these simple steps: First, rinse the rice under cold water to remove any excess starch and prevent it from sticking together. Then, measure the desired amount of rice and place it in the steaming basket. Add water or broth to the pot, ensuring the water level is below the rice. Cover the pot and turn on the heat. Once the water boils, reduce the heat and let the rice steam for 15-20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed. Remove the pot from the heat and let it sit for 5 minutes before fluffing the rice with a fork.
The rice-to-water ratio depends on the type of rice and your desired consistency. For white rice, a 1:2 ratio is recommended, but you can adjust it slightly for a firmer or softer texture. For example, a 1:1.3 ratio will give you firmer rice, while a 1:1.5 ratio is suitable for softer rice.
The cooking time depends on the type of rice and the steamer. Generally, white rice takes about 20-25 minutes, while brown rice may take up to 45 minutes.
Yes, it is recommended to rinse the rice before cooking it in a steamer to remove excess starch and impurities, ensuring fluffier and less sticky rice. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then drain it before adding it to the steamer.
Yes, you can enhance the taste of your rice by adding seasonings and flavours. Popular options include a pinch of salt, a drizzle of olive oil, or spices like cumin or turmeric. You can also add vegetables, seafood, or dumplings to cook alongside the rice for a complete meal.
