Steaming Fish: Using Your Aroma Rice Cooker

Steaming fish in an Aroma rice cooker is a simple and convenient way to prepare a nutritious meal. The process involves marinating the fish, placing it in the rice cooker, and allowing it to cook with the steam generated by the rice cooking below. This method not only cooks the fish but also infuses it with flavour from spices and sauces. The key to success is ensuring the fish doesn't overcook, so it's important to keep an eye on it and follow timing guidelines. This technique is a versatile way to prepare fish with rice, creating a tasty and healthy dish.

Preparing the fish

Next, you can choose to get rid of the fishy smell by pouring hot water over the fillet. This step is not necessary if your fish is fresh. Then, pat the fish dry and season it with salt and pepper, or a spice mixture of your choice. You can include garlic, ginger, hot chilli, or any other flavours you wish to add to your fish.

After seasoning, place the fish on a steam-proof plate that fits inside your Aroma rice cooker. If your fish is whole, cut three half-inch clefts on each side of it. If you are using fillets, use a sharp knife to create three to four quarter- to half-inch slits on both sides.

Now, your fish is ready to be steamed!

Cooking the rice

To cook rice in your Aroma rice cooker, first, measure out your rice and water according to the instructions of your rice cooker. Then, begin cooking the rice in the usual way. If you are making a sauce to go with your fish, you can add this to the rice cooker instead of water. Just make sure that your sauce has at least 1 cup of liquid in it to properly cook the fish.

If you are making a sauce, you can place the fish and sauce directly into the rice cooker. Place the fish or fish and sauce into the rice cooker after almost all of the water has cooked out of the machine and the rice is almost tender. If you are steaming the fish, place the fish into the steamer basket and place the steamer basket on top of the rice cooker once there is little visible water in the rice.

If your rice cooker doesn't have a steamer basket, you can place the fish directly on top of the rice. Cover the rice cooker steam rack with foil and place the fish fillets on it. If your rice cooker doesn't have a steam rack, place foil directly on top of the rice and fold up the sides to avoid oil from spilling out onto the rice while steaming.

Close the lid and continue cooking for 3 to 5 minutes, depending on the size of the fillets.

Spices and seasoning

Preparing the Spice Mixture

The spice mixture you choose will depend on your personal taste preferences. A simple combination of garlic and ginger is a popular choice, but you can also add hot chilli or other spices to suit your palate. To bring out the flavours of the spices, cook them in a little olive oil on low heat for a minute or two until they turn slightly brown. This step helps to release the aromatic compounds in the spices, enhancing their flavour and fragrance.

Seasoning the Fish

Once you have prepared your spice mixture, it's time to season the fish. If you are using an Aroma rice cooker with a steamer basket, cut the fish into pieces that will fit in the basket. Rub the spice mixture atop the fish pieces, ensuring an even coating. If you are not using a steamer basket, you can place the fish directly on top of the rice.

Additional Seasoning Options

While garlic and ginger are classic choices, you can also experiment with other seasonings to create different flavour profiles. For a Chinese-inspired dish, try using soy sauce, sesame oil, cilantro, and scallions. If you're in the mood for something spicy, create a Cajun-style fish dish with cayenne pepper, chopped onions, celery, green peppers, garlic, fish stock, lemon juice, and diced tomatoes with green chillies. Alternatively, for a Mediterranean flair, prepare an Italian fish sauce with tomato sauce, basil, oregano, garlic, thyme, and olive oil.

Timing and Presentation

The timing of when to add the fish to the rice cooker is crucial. If you are cooking rice simultaneously, wait until there is little visible water left in the rice. Then, place the seasoned fish into the steamer basket and put the basket on top of the rice cooker. Leave the lid on and allow the rice to finish cooking. The steaming time will depend on the type of fish and the thickness of the fillets, typically ranging from 5 to 15 minutes. For an extra touch, garnish your steamed fish with fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, oregano, or cilantro.

Steaming the fish

Steaming fish in an Aroma Rice Cooker is a simple and convenient way to prepare a nutritious meal. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you achieve perfectly steamed fish:

Preparing the Fish:

Firstly, ensure your fish is scaled, washed, and patted dry. You can use any type of fish, such as salmon, cod, or halibut, but make sure it is fresh. Check for any discolouration or brown spots, and ensure it is firm, smooth, and shiny. If you are using frozen fish, make sure to thaw it thoroughly and get rid of any fishy smell by pouring hot water over it.

Seasoning:

You can season the fish with a variety of spices and herbs to suit your taste. Common options include garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, cumin powder, paprika, and hot chili. You can also use lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper for a fresh and healthy flavour. Prepare your spice mixture and rub it over the fish.

Place the fish on a plate that fits the upper level of your Aroma Rice Cooker. If your fish is whole, create three half-inch clefts on each side. For fillets, make three to four quarter- to half-inch slits on both sides. This will help the steam cook the flesh evenly.

If you are cooking rice simultaneously, wait until there is little visible water left in the rice before placing the fish in the cooker. Place the fish plate in the upper level and cover the rice cooker.

The steaming time will depend on the thickness of your fish fillets. For fillets thinner than an inch, around 6 minutes should be sufficient. For thicker fillets, follow the 10-minute-per-inch rule. Check the fish after the recommended time to ensure it is not overcooked.

Testing for Doneness:

To check if your fish is cooked, open the lid and use a chopstick to gently poke the thickest part of the fillet. If the fish is done, the chopstick should pass through easily, and the meat should be opaque both on the outside and in the centre.

Serving:

Once the fish is cooked, remove it from the rice cooker and serve it immediately. You can garnish it with fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, oregano, or cilantro, or with lemon slices. Steamed fish goes well with freshly baked bread or steamed vegetables, and of course, rice!

Serving suggestions

There are many ways to serve steamed fish cooked in an aroma rice cooker. Here are some serving suggestions:

Simple and Fresh

Steam the fish with nothing on it. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, and sprinkle with coarse salt.

Asian-Style

Steam the fish with aromatics like ginger, garlic, and onions. Top with a drizzle of sizzling hot oil, and serve with rice and a simple green vegetable or salad.

Lemon, Olive Oil, Salt, and Pepper

Before cooking, rub the fish with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Squeeze lemon juice over the fish before serving.

Herbs

Throw in some potent herbs like rosemary or thyme, with a pinch of salt and pepper. You can also add other flavors like salt, pepper, paprika, cumin powder, or chipotle powder.

Soy Sauce, Onion, and Garlic

Add a little soy sauce, onion, and minced garlic to your fish before steaming.

Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad

Serve your steamed fish with a side of spicy Korean cucumber salad.

Sides

Serve your steamed fish with a side of rice, vegetables, or salad.

Frequently asked questions