Steaming Dim Sum: Using Your Rice Cooker To Perfection

Steaming dim sum in a rice cooker is a convenient way to prepare this dish without the need for a bamboo steamer. The process involves adding water to the rice cooker, coating the steaming basket with sesame oil, and arranging the dumplings in a single layer. With a lid on, the dumplings are then cooked for 10-20 minutes, depending on whether they are frozen or not. After carefully opening the rice cooker, the dumplings are left to rest for 5 minutes to allow excess moisture to evaporate. They can then be served with a dip made from equal parts sesame oil and soy sauce.

How to steam dim sum in a rice cooker

Filling your rice cooker with water

Firstly, if you own a steam tray, you can place it inside the rice cooker and simply add water to the bottom of the cooker, ensuring it does not exceed one inch in height. This method is straightforward and effective.

If you do not have a steam tray, there is another approach. Place a bowl in the centre of the rice cooker and position your dim sum inside. After this, fill the remaining space in the cooker with water to a height of approximately one inch. This method ensures your dim sum is not submerged while still providing enough moisture for steaming.

The amount of water you add to the rice cooker can vary slightly depending on your specific cooker and the number of dim sum you plan to steam. As a general rule, aim for a water level between half an inch and one inch.

It is important to note that the water temperature will also influence the overall cooking time. Starting with boiling water will reduce the steaming time, whereas room-temperature water will extend it. For instance, with boiling water, the steaming process may take around 5 minutes, whereas room-temperature water may require up to 10 minutes.

Remember to exercise caution when handling the rice cooker after steaming, as the steam and contents will be very hot.

Preparing the dim sum

Firstly, you'll need to decide whether you want to make your dim sum from scratch or buy frozen dumplings. If you're buying frozen, be sure to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before steaming.

If you're making your dim sum from scratch, you'll need to prepare the filling and wrap the dumplings before steaming. This may involve marinating meat, chopping vegetables, and assembling the ingredients. You can find many dim sum recipes online to guide you through this process.

Once your dim sum is assembled, it's time to prepare the rice cooker. Add water to the bowl of the rice cooker, filling it up to about an inch deep. If you have a steaming basket, coat it lightly with sesame oil to prevent the dumplings from sticking. You can also line the basket with lettuce to eliminate oil from the dumplings.

Arrange the dim sum in a single layer in the steaming basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. If you don't have a steaming basket, you can place a bowl in the centre of the rice cooker and arrange the dim sum inside.

Place the steaming basket or bowl inside the rice cooker, ensuring it is secure. Turn on the rice cooker and let it heat up. If your rice cooker has a 'steam' button, use that setting. Otherwise, simply turn it on and let it heat up.

The steaming time will depend on the temperature of your water and the number of dumplings you are cooking. For room-temperature water, steaming may take around 10 minutes. If you use boiling water, it could take as little as 5 minutes. Keep an eye on your dim sum and check them periodically to avoid overcooking.

Once the dim sum are cooked, carefully open the rice cooker, being cautious of the hot steam. Let the dumplings rest for a few minutes to allow excess moisture to evaporate, then transfer them to a serving tray. You can serve them with a dipping sauce of equal parts sesame oil and soy sauce.

Oiling the steaming basket

• Choose an appropriate oil: Sesame oil is a popular choice for dim sum as it adds a subtle nutty flavour to the dish. However, you can also use other types of oil such as vegetable or canola oil.
• Prepare the steaming basket: If you are using a bamboo steamer, it is recommended to soak it in warm water before use. This makes the bamboo more pliable and helps prevent scorching. Metal steamers, on the other hand, are easier to clean and can be used without any special preparation.
• Oil the basket: Using a pastry brush, lightly coat the surface of the steaming basket with oil. Make sure to get into the crevices and cracks of the basket to ensure that the dumplings don't stick.
• Line the basket: For extra insurance against sticking, you can line your steaming basket with parchment paper, cheesecloth, or natural leaves such as cabbage, banana, or lettuce. This adds an extra layer of protection and can also impart a subtle flavour to your dim sum.
• Stacking baskets: If you are using multiple steaming baskets, you can oil and line each basket before stacking them. Remember to rotate the baskets halfway through cooking to ensure even cooking.
• Maintenance: After steaming, allow your basket to air dry completely before storing it. This is especially important for bamboo steamers to prevent mould growth and extend their lifespan.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your dim sum doesn't stick to the steaming basket and that your steamer is properly maintained for future use.

Cooking time

The cooking time for steaming dim sum in a rice cooker depends on several factors, including the starting temperature of the water, the number of dumplings, and whether they are frozen or freshly made. Here is a detailed guide to help you perfect your dim sum cooking time:

If you are using a basic rice cooker with only an on and off function, you will need to monitor the cooking process closely and experiment to get the timing right. Start by filling the rice cooker with water to the first line or about an inch deep if there are no markings. Bring the water to a boil, which will take around 5 minutes, and then place your dumplings in a steaming basket inside the rice cooker.

For freshly made dim sum, allow them to steam for 10 minutes. If your dumplings are frozen, they will need a bit longer, around 20 minutes, to ensure they are heated through. You can check on the progress by carefully opening the rice cooker and inspecting the dumplings. It is normal for there to be some trial and error to get the timing just right, so don't be discouraged if your first attempt isn't perfect.

If your rice cooker has a steam setting, use this function, and refer to the manufacturer's instructions for guidance on cooking times. As a general rule, it should take between 10 and 20 minutes to steam dim sum in a rice cooker, depending on whether they are frozen or not.

Once the dim sum is cooked to your liking, turn off the rice cooker and let the dumplings rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows any excess moisture to evaporate, ensuring your dim sum are not soggy.

Serving

Once your dim sum is steamed, carefully open the rice cooker and let the dim sum rest for 5 minutes to allow the excess moisture on the surface to evaporate. Remove the steaming basket from the rice cooker and transfer the dim sum to a serving tray.

Serve the dim sum with equal parts sesame oil and soy sauce for dipping. If you want to eliminate oil from the dim sum, line the steaming basket with lettuce.

Be cautious when opening the rice cooker as the steam is very hot.

Frequently asked questions