Steaming Rice Perfection With The Yunnan Steamer

Steaming rice is a great way to cook this staple food, and it can be done in a Yunnan steamer. The process is simple and only requires a few steps. First, place the desired amount of rice and water in the steamer's rice bowl with a pinch of salt. The general ratio of water to rice is 1:1, but this can be adjusted depending on the desired texture and type of rice being used. For example, a ratio of 1:1.3 is recommended for those who prefer their rice to be less soft, while a ratio of 1:1.5 is suggested for softer rice. Next, fill the steamer's reservoir to its maximum level and assemble the steamer compartments and drip tray as usual. Set the timer according to the type of rice being cooked; brown or red rice will take 45 to 50 minutes, while white rice will take 25 to 30 minutes. Finally, turn on the heat to high, cover the steamer, and cook for 20 minutes. Turn off the heat and let the rice sit in the steamer with the lid on for at least 5 more minutes before serving. This method produces fluffy, tender rice and is a convenient option for those without a rice cooker or those looking to cook smaller portions.

Use cold water in the Yunnan steamer

Using cold water in the Yunnan steamer is a crucial step in achieving the perfect steamed rice. Here's a detailed guide on this cooking method:

Firstly, it's important to note the benefits of steaming rice over boiling it. Steaming rice is a gentler cooking method that prevents the rice from becoming a sticky mess or burning at the bottom of the pan. It's also a healthier option as it doesn't require any added fat and prevents the loss of water-soluble nutrients.

Now, let's get into the step-by-step process of using cold water in the Yunnan steamer:

• Place the desired amount of rice in the steamer's rice bowl. It's recommended to use a pinch of salt and measure the rice and water according to the provided ratios. The general ratio of water to rice is 1:1, but this may vary depending on personal preferences and the type of rice used. For softer rice, a ratio of 1:1.5 can be used.
• Fill the steamer's reservoir with cold water. Do not use boiling water. The water level should be at the maximum level indicated in the steamer's instructions.
• Assemble the steamer compartments and the drip tray as per the usual instructions for your specific steamer.
• Turn on the heat to high and cover the steamer. It is important that the lid is secure and covers the pot completely.
• Cook the rice for approximately 20 minutes. The cooking time may vary depending on the type of rice. For brown or red rice, set the timer for 45-50 minutes, and for white rice, set it for 25-30 minutes.
• After the set time, turn off the heat and let the rice sit in the steamer with the lid on for at least 5 more minutes. This allows the rice to continue cooking gently and prevents overcooking.
• Finally, serve the rice immediately, or you can let it remain in the steamer to stay warm until you're ready to serve.

Remember, the key to using a Yunnan steamer effectively is to start with cold water and ensure that the rice is not placed in boiling water. This method of steaming rice will result in fluffy, separate grains that are cooked evenly.

Turn the heat to high, cover and cook for 20 minutes

Now that your Yunnan steamer is filled with cold water, turn the heat to high. It's important that the water is cold when the rice is placed into the steamer, as rice placed into boiling water will turn out sticky. Cover the steamer with its lid, and let the rice cook for 20 minutes.

While you wait, here are some tips for getting the best results from your rice. If you want to keep the grains separate and firm, rinse the rice in two or three changes of water until the water is no longer cloudy and runs clear. This removes excess starch. For a softer texture or shorter cooking time, you can soak the rice for 30 minutes before cooking it. This is a good way to preserve the aroma and flavour of longer-grain varieties such as jasmine.

The ratio of rice to water is important. For medium or long-grain rice, use a 1-to-2 ratio. For example, 1 cup of uncooked rice, which serves 2 to 3 people, needs 2 cups of water. For a stickier result with medium or short-grain rice, reduce the amount of water to a 1.25-to-1 ratio. For example, use 1 and 1/4 cups of water for 1 cup of rice.

Remember, you're turning the heat to high and cooking the rice for 20 minutes. Don't be tempted to lift the lid!

Let the rice sit for at least 5 minutes after turning off the heat

Allowing the rice to rest after turning off the heat is a crucial step in the cooking process. This step ensures that the rice is evenly cooked and helps to reduce clumping and stickiness.

When rice is cooked, the water is absorbed, and the rice grains get closer together. If you were to serve the rice immediately after turning off the heat, you would find that the grains are firmer on the top and mushy on the bottom. By letting the rice sit in the Yunnan steamer with the lid on for at least 5 minutes, you allow the moisture to redistribute, ensuring that each grain is tender and holds its individual character.

Additionally, during this resting period, the rice continues to steam, which results in extra fluffy rice. This step is especially important if you plan on serving the rice immediately, as it ensures that your rice is cooked to perfection.

For the best results, it is recommended to let the rice rest covered for 10 minutes. This timing allows the rice to fully absorb the remaining moisture and ensures that the rice is light and fluffy. If you're in a hurry, 5 minutes is the minimum amount of time you should allow for the rice to rest. However, if you have the time, letting the rice rest for a few extra minutes can further improve the texture and taste.

Use a rice-to-water ratio of 1:1.3 for firmer rice

When cooking rice in a Yunnan steamer, the rice-to-water ratio you use will depend on your desired rice texture. For firmer rice, use a rice-to-water ratio of 1:1.3. This means that for every cup of rice, you will need 1.3 cups of water. For example, if you are cooking 1 cup of rice, you will need 1.3 cups of water, which is equivalent to just over 1 ounce.

Before cooking your rice, it is important to first rinse the grains in cold water. Rinsing the rice will remove excess starch, resulting in more distinct, firmer grains. To do this, simply run the rice under cold water, stirring it with your hand or a spoon, until the water runs clear. This may take two or three changes of water.

Once your rice is rinsed, you can begin cooking it in your Yunnan steamer. First, pre-soak your rice for at least 10 minutes. This will help to ensure even cooking and prevent your rice from becoming mushy. After pre-soaking, drain the water and transfer the rice to a shallow, heat-proof container that will fit in your steamer. For every cup of rice, add 1.3 cups of water to the rice in the container.

Place the container in your Yunnan steamer, ensuring that the water in the steamer is cold. If you are using an electric steamer, simply turn it on and set the timer according to the type of rice you are cooking. If you are using a stove-top steamer, turn the heat to high, cover the steamer, and cook for 20 minutes.

Once the 20 minutes are up, turn off the heat and let the rice sit in the steamer, still covered, for at least another 5 minutes. This will allow the rice to finish cooking and result in perfectly cooked, firmer rice.

Pre-soak the rice for at least 10 minutes

Pre-soaking the rice is an important step in the rice-cooking process. It helps to reduce the cooking time and also preserves the aroma and flavour of the rice, especially for longer-grain varieties such as jasmine rice.

To pre-soak the rice, first, wash the rice in the bowl you plan to cook it in. Rinse the rice in the bowl 3-4 times, or until the water is no longer cloudy and runs clear. This will remove excess starch and result in more distinct grains.

Once the rice is rinsed, fill the bowl with water and let the rice soak for at least 10 minutes. Do not over-soak the rice, as this will cause the grains to break down. After 10 minutes, drain the water from the rice and proceed to the next step of cooking the rice in the Yunnan steamer.

Frequently asked questions