Air-Fried Sticky Rice: Quick, Easy, And Delicious!

Air fryers are a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used to make a variety of dishes, including crispy rice sushi, spicy cauliflower stir fry, and even sticky rice. While it may seem unconventional to use an air fryer for rice, it is a simple and effective method that delivers perfectly cooked rice with minimal effort. In this article, we will explore the steps to make sticky rice in an air fryer, the different types of rice that can be used, and the benefits of using an air fryer for this dish. We will also provide tips and tricks to ensure your rice turns out fluffy and delicious every time.

Choosing the right rice

Type of Rice

Jasmine rice, a short-grain variety that originated in Thailand, is an excellent choice for sticky rice. Its natural stickiness helps the sauce cling to the grains, making it ideal for this dish. Basmati rice, a long-grain variety commonly used in Indian cuisine, is another good option. It has a lower starch content, which prevents the rice grains from clumping together in the air fryer's dry heat environment.

Grain Length

When it comes to grain length, long-grain rice varieties, such as Basmati or Jasmine, are generally the best choices for air fryers. Their lower starch content keeps the rice from becoming gummy and sticking together. This is particularly important in the dry heat environment of an air fryer, as too much starch can cause the rice grains to clump.

Starch Content

The starch content of the rice plays a crucial role in determining the final texture of your sticky rice. As mentioned earlier, long-grain varieties like Basmati or Jasmine have a lower starch content, making them ideal. The reduced starch prevents the rice from becoming overly sticky and ensures even cooking without clumping.

Rinsing the Rice

Before cooking, be sure to rinse the rice thoroughly. Rinsing helps remove dust, debris, and excess starch. This step is crucial in preventing the rice grains from sticking together excessively and achieving the desired sticky texture without becoming mushy.

Rice-to-Water Ratio

The ratio of rice to water is critical in achieving the perfect sticky rice consistency. A ratio of 1:1.25 (rice to water) is generally recommended. However, slight adjustments may be needed based on your specific air fryer model. Experiment with the ratio to find the ideal amount of water for your air fryer.

In summary, when choosing the right rice for making sticky rice in an air fryer, opt for Jasmine or Basmati rice due to their grain length, starch content, and natural stickiness. Be sure to rinse the rice thoroughly before cooking, and pay attention to the rice-to-water ratio to ensure perfect results. With the right type of rice and preparation techniques, you'll be well on your way to making delicious sticky rice in your air fryer!

Preparing the rice

Firstly, choose the right type of rice. For sticky rice, you'll want to use a variety that has a higher starch content. Jasmine rice, which originates from Thailand, is a short-grain rice that is perfect for sticky rice. Basmati rice, a long-grain variety, can also be used, although it has a lower starch content.

Next, rinse the rice. Rinsing helps to remove any dust or debris and also reduces the starch content, ensuring your rice doesn't become too sticky or gummy. Place the rice in a fine-mesh strainer or colander and rinse it under cool running water for about a minute, or until the water runs clear. Gently shake and press the rice to remove excess water, then transfer it to your cake pan or baking dish.

Now it's time to season and add water. For every cup of rinsed rice, use 1.25 cups of water. If you didn't rinse your rice, use 1.5 cups of water instead. You can also add a quarter teaspoon of coarse sea salt and a drizzle of olive oil for flavour and texture. Give the mixture a stir to combine all the ingredients.

Cover your dish tightly with aluminium foil or a compatible lid. This step is crucial as it helps to retain moisture and steam, which are essential for cooking the rice.

Place the covered dish in the air fryer and set the temperature to around 300°F or 149°C. Cook the rice for 30 minutes.

Once the timer goes off, don't be tempted to remove the foil or lid just yet. Turn off the air fryer and let the rice sit inside for an additional 15 minutes. This allows the rice to continue steaming and absorbing the remaining water, resulting in a perfect texture.

Finally, carefully remove the dish from the air fryer using oven mitts. Fluff the rice gently with a fork or a rice paddle, and it's ready to serve!

Cooking the rice

To cook the rice, you'll first need to rinse and drain the uncooked rice in a fine-mesh strainer or a colander in cool water until the water runs clear (about 1 minute). Shake and lightly press to drain.

Next, add the rice, water, salt, and olive oil to a cake pan. Use 1.25 cups of water if the rice is rinsed, and 1.5 cups if it isn't. Tightly cover the pan with foil paper.

Now, you can air fry your rice at 300 °F (149 °C) for 30 minutes. After this, turn off the air fryer and let the rice steam inside for 15 minutes before removing the foil paper.

Finally, carefully remove the cake pan with oven mitts and fluff the rice with a fork or a rice paddle before serving.

Note that the texture of rice cooked in an air fryer will be slightly more crisp or "al dente" than rice cooked in a pot or rice cooker.

Storing leftover rice

Cooling the Rice:

First, allow the rice to cool to room temperature. Spreading the rice onto a plate will help it cool faster. This step is important for food hygiene and to prevent bacteria growth.

Storing in the Fridge:

Once the rice has cooled, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It's best to use the rice within 3-4 days, as recommended by food safety experts.

Adding Water:

When you're ready to reheat the rice, sprinkle a little water on it before microwaving or cooking on the stovetop. This will help the rice retain moisture and prevent it from drying out.

Reheating:

You can reheat the rice in the microwave or on the stovetop. In the microwave, cover the rice with a damp paper towel and heat for 1-2 minutes or until properly heated through. On the stovetop, add 2 tablespoons of water or broth for every 2 cups of rice, and heat over low to medium heat until properly heated through.

Storing in the Freezer:

If you want to store the rice for longer, you can freeze it. Let the rice cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. Press out any excess air to prevent freezer burn, and store in the freezer for up to six months. Frozen rice is best used in dishes where texture is less important, like casseroles or soups.

Reheating the rice

If you have leftover rice, it's important to store it correctly to ensure it stays safe to eat. Leftover rice should be cooled to room temperature and then stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days.

When you're ready to reheat your rice, it's best to use the air fryer to ensure it gets back to an even temperature throughout. Simply transfer the rice to a cake pan or oven-friendly bakeware, cover it with foil, and place it in the air fryer. You can also add a few drops of water to the rice before cooking if you prefer a softer texture. Heat the rice at 320°F for 5 minutes, then check and stir it. If it needs more time, just add a few minutes until it's heated through.

For frozen rice, break the rice into chunks and place it in a cake pan. Cover with foil and air fry at 320°F for 10 minutes, or until heated through, stirring as needed.

It's important to note that reheated rice should not be left at room temperature for too long, as the spores in the rice can grow into harmful bacteria. So, be sure to only remove the rice from the fridge when you're ready to reheat and eat it.

Frequently asked questions