Steaming Rice: Jamie Oliver Steamer Method

Jamie Oliver has a few different methods for cooking rice. One of them is the absorption method. For four people, add a mug of rice and two mugs of boiling water to a pan with a pinch of salt and pepper, then cook with the lid on over a high heat for about 8 to 10 minutes, until all the liquid has been completely absorbed. You can also add aromatics to the water with this method.

Another method involves placing a large pan of salted water over a high heat and bringing it to the boil. Rinse 300g of rice in a colander under running water for about 1 minute, or until the water runs clear, then add your rice to the boiling water. When the grains start dancing around, boil for 5 to 6 minutes. Drain the rice in a metal colander. Pour 2.5cm of water into the pan, put it back on the heat and bring it to the boil again, then turn down to a simmer. Cover the rice in the colander with foil or a lid. Place the colander on top of the pan of simmering water and let the rice steam for 8 to 10 minutes.

Jamie Oliver also has a rice recipe that involves cooking the rice in a pan with other ingredients, such as onion, canned tomatoes, and paprika.

How to steam rice on the stove

Steaming rice is a great way to cook rice if you don't have a rice cooker, are looking to reduce the number of dishes you have to wash, or are simply cooking rice in small batches. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to steam rice on the stove.

Step 1: Pre-soak the Rice

Begin by pre-soaking your rice for at least 10 minutes. This will help ensure that your rice cooks evenly and has a nice texture.

Step 2: Prepare the Steamer

Fill your steamer with cold water. It's important that the water is not boiling when you place the rice into the steamer. Place the steamer on the stove and turn the heat to high.

Step 3: Add Rice to the Steamer

After pre-soaking, drain the rice and transfer it to a shallow, heat-proof container that will fit in your steamer. The container should be large enough to hold the rice and water comfortably, with a little extra space to allow for expansion as the rice cooks. Add water to the rice in the container. The ideal rice to water ratio is 1 (rice) : 1.3 (water). However, if you prefer softer rice, you can use a 1:1.5 ratio. For short-grain rice, a ratio of 1:1.1 works best.

Step 4: Steam the Rice

Place the container with the rice and water in the steamer. Cover the steamer and let the rice cook for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, turn off the heat but keep the rice in the steamer with the lid on for at least another 5 minutes. This allows the rice to rest and ensures that it is fully cooked. You can also keep the rice in the steamer until you are ready to serve it, as the steamer will keep it warm.

Tips for Perfect Steamed Rice

• Use a heat-proof container that is shallow and fits comfortably in your steamer.
• Pre-soaking the rice is an important step as it helps ensure even cooking and a nice texture.
• The rice to water ratio can be adjusted to your preference. For softer rice, use a 1:1.5 ratio. For short-grain rice, a 1:1.1 ratio works well.
• It is important to use cold water in the steamer, as boiling water can lead to uneven cooking.
• Allowing the rice to rest in the steamer for a few minutes after cooking ensures that it is fully cooked and gives it a nice texture.

Variations and Add-Ins

While steamed rice is delicious on its own, you can easily jazz it up by adding different ingredients or replacing the water with other liquids. Here are some ideas to try:

• Replace the water with tea or coconut milk for extra fragrance and flavor.
• Use chicken, pork, vegetable, or mushroom stock to add more depth of flavor and umami.
• Add salt and a splash of oil to the water for a basic seasoning.
• Include fried onions, tomatoes, spices, or other flavor agents to suit the cuisine you're preparing.

How to cook rice without a rice cooker

Rice is a staple food for a large part of the global population. It's versatile, tasty, and easy to cook. While many people use a rice cooker, it is not a necessary appliance. Here are some ways to cook rice without a rice cooker.

The microwave method

Microwaving rice is a convenient and cheap way to cook rice. It also requires less clean-up than cooking rice on a stovetop. Here is how to do it:

• Use a microwave-safe bowl with a lid.
• For every 1.5 cups of raw rice, add 2.25 cups of water.
• Microwave for 5 minutes on full power, then for 15 minutes at 50% power.
• Let the rice rest for 5 minutes.

The stovetop method

Cooking rice on a stovetop is a more traditional way of cooking rice. Here is how to do it:

• Place a large pan of salted water on high heat and bring to a boil.
• Rinse 300g of rice in a colander under running water for about 1 minute, or until the water runs clear.
• Add the rice to the boiling water.
• When the rice grains start dancing around, let it boil for 5 to 6 minutes.
• Drain the rice in a metal colander.
• Pour 2.5cm of water into the pan and bring it to a boil again, then turn down to a simmer.
• Cover the rice in the colander with foil or a lid. Place the colander on top of the pan of simmering water and let the rice steam for 8 to 10 minutes.
• Remove from the heat and serve immediately, or leave covered until ready to serve – it should stay warm for about 20 minutes.

The steaming method

Steaming rice is another great way to cook rice without a rice cooker. Here is how to do it:

• Pre-soak your rice for at least 10 minutes.
• Drain and transfer the rice to a shallow, heat-proof container that will fit in your steamer.
• Add water to the rice, using a ratio of 1:1.3 (rice:water). You can make it 1:1.5 if you like softer rice.
• Place the container in a steamer filled with cold water.
• Turn on the heat to high, cover, and cook for 20 minutes.
• Turn off the heat and let the rice sit in the steamer, covered, for at least 5 minutes.

How to cook rice in the microwave

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups of raw rice (jasmine, basmati, regular long grain, or short grain)
• 2 1/4 cups of water
• Microwave-safe bowl with a lid (e.g. Pyrex, CorningWare, or plastic microwave-safe pot)

Method:

• Rinse the rice under cool water, swishing it around with your hands to wash it. Drain the water, keeping the rice in the bowl. Repeat this process three more times until the water is only slightly cloudy.
• Add 2 1/4 cups of water to the rice.
• Cover the bowl with a lid.
• Microwave on high power for 5 minutes.
• Microwave on 50% power for 15 minutes.
• Let the rice rest, covered, for 5 minutes before fluffing it with a fork.

Tips:

• The secret to microwaving rice is to add the right amount of water. Too much water will result in soggy rice, while too little water will lead to dry rice.
• It is important to rinse the rice several times before cooking to remove excess starch, which can make the rice sticky and gummy.
• If you are using a microwave-safe dish without a vent, simply lay the lid on top of the cooking dish to allow steam to escape and place a dish towel underneath to catch any overflow.

How to make brown rice interesting

Brown rice is a healthy alternative to white rice, but it can be a little boring. Here are some tips and tricks to make brown rice more exciting and flavourful.

Rice bowls

Rice bowls are a great way to present brown rice. Simply add a combination of cooked and raw ingredients, and tie everything together with a dressing or sauce.

Rice and black beans

Warm up your leftover brown rice with a can of drained and rinsed black beans in a skillet. Stir in some salsa and, if you want to go the extra mile, sauté some garlic and peppers in olive oil first.

Savory rice salad

Combine leftover brown rice with frozen corn kernels, lightly steamed peas, and whatever other vegetables you have in the fridge. Dress with a vinaigrette for a perfect work lunch.

Sweet rice salad

Leftover brown rice can be transformed into a sweet salad. Try combining it with apples, celery, walnuts, and raisins. Dress the salad with vegan mayo or coconut yogurt.

Rice pudding

Warm up your leftover rice with almond milk or non-dairy milk. Mix in raisins or other dried fruit, fresh fruit like pears or bananas, cinnamon, and a little maple syrup for a comforting dessert.

Quick curried pilaf

Combine leftover brown rice with a trail mix containing dried fruits, nuts, and seeds. Heat in a skillet with vegan butter or nut oil, and sprinkle in some curry powder, ginger, and other seasonings of your choice.

Green veggies and nuts

Brown rice and steamed green vegetables can be a little boring on their own, but combining them in a bowl and topping with yummy nuts makes for a tasty trio. Try this with steamed Brussels sprouts, broccoli, or green beans.

Chinese vegetable fried rice

Heat some sesame oil or any neutral vegetable oil in a stir-fry pan. Toss in some frozen peas or mixed vegetables, then add your leftover brown rice. Season with soy sauce and pepper, and, if you like, add some thinly sliced scallions and squeezable ginger.

Instant mujaddarah

This Middle Eastern dish usually features rice or bulgur cooked with lentils. For an instant version, simply combine your leftover brown rice with a can of drained lentils, and as much scallion and parsley as you like. Heat in a skillet and season with salt and pepper.

Spinach and herb rice

Wilt down some baby spinach and stir it into warm cooked brown rice along with your favourite chopped fresh herbs. Parsley and dill work well here. Add a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil and lemon juice to taste.

Brown rice cakes

Puffy brown-rice cakes are a versatile gluten-free alternative to toast. Try them with the following toppings:

• Avocado, tamari, and black sesame seeds
• Tahini, tomatoes, parsley, and sea salt
• Neufchatel, smoked salmon, red onion, and dill
• Nut butter, berries, and honey
• Ricotta, cucumber, coarse salt, and freshly ground pepper
• Peanut butter, hot sauce, and toasted unsweetened coconut flakes
• Hummus, thinly sliced sharp cheddar, and sprouts
• Plain Greek yogurt, pistachios, and honey
• Melted dark chocolate and sea salt

How to cook rice with flavour

How to Cook Rice with Flavor

Ingredients and Equipment:

• 1 cup of rice (jasmine, basmati, or any variety you prefer)
• 2 cups of water or broth
• A steamer pot or rice cooker with a steaming basket
• A fine-mesh sieve or colander for rinsing the rice
• A measuring cup and spoon
• A kitchen towel or lid to cover the steamer
• Salt, herbs, or spices of your choice (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

• Rinse the rice under cold water to remove excess starch and prevent sticking.
• Measure 1 cup of rice and place it in the steaming basket of your steamer pot or rice cooker.
• Add 2 cups of water or broth to the pot. Adjust the amount of liquid based on your preferred rice consistency and the type of rice you're using.
• Place the steaming basket with the rice inside the pot, ensuring it sits above the water level.
• Cover the pot with a kitchen towel or lid to trap the steam and ensure even cooking.
• Turn on the heat and bring the water to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low.
• Let the rice steam for 15-20 minutes, or until all the liquid has been absorbed and the rice is tender. Avoid lifting the lid frequently to maintain consistent cooking.
• Remove the pot from the heat and let it sit, covered, for about 5 minutes. This helps the rice grains firm up and become fluffy.
• Fluff the rice with a fork or a rice paddle to separate the grains and serve hot.

Tips for Perfectly Flavored Rice:

• Adjust the water-to-rice ratio for your desired texture. Decrease water for firmer rice and increase for softer, stickier rice.
• Experiment with different types of rice to find your favorite. Jasmine rice is fragrant and slightly sticky, while basmati has a delicate flavor and long grains.
• Add seasonings like salt, herbs, or spices to the water for extra flavor. This is ideal if you plan to use the rice as a base for stir-fries or curries.
• Invest in a rice cooker with a steaming function if you plan to cook rice regularly. These appliances offer precise temperature control and make the process effortless.

Now you're ready to create delicious and fluffy flavored rice dishes with ease! Enjoy experimenting with different flavors and types of rice to find your favorites.

Frequently asked questions