Steaming Salmon In A Rice Cooker: Quick, Easy, Delicious!

Steaming salmon in a rice cooker is an easy and convenient way to prepare a healthy and delicious meal. It is a versatile cooking method that yields tender and flavorful results. By choosing the right rice cooker, preparing the salmon, and adding the necessary liquids, you can create a simple yet tasty dish. Steaming is also a healthier alternative to frying or grilling, as it preserves the natural flavours and nutrients of the fish while maintaining a moist and tender texture. This guide will teach you how to steam salmon in a rice cooker, including tips on choosing the right cooker, preparing the fish, and achieving the perfect cooking time.

Choosing the right rice cooker

There are several factors to consider when choosing a rice cooker. Here are some tips to help you select the right one for your needs:

Size and Capacity:

• Consider your family size: Rice cookers typically come in 3-cup, 5-cup, or 10-cup sizes. For a small family of 1-3 people, a 3-cup cooker is ideal, while a 4-6 person household should opt for a 5-cup cooker. Avoid choosing a cooker that is larger than necessary, as it will use more energy.
• Occasional guests: If you frequently have guests over, consider a slightly larger cooker. However, note that using a much larger cooker for small amounts of rice can damage the inner pot and affect the even distribution of heat.

Type and Features:

• Rice types: Identify the type of rice you usually cook. Different types of rice cookers are available, such as traditional, jar-o-mat, micro-computerized, and induction heated (IH). Each has unique features and cooking capabilities.
• Functions: Some rice cookers offer additional functions like cooking other grains, steaming, baking, or making porridge. If you value special functions and would find a timer useful, opt for a micro-computerized or IH rice cooker.

Inner Pots:

Inner pot types: The inner pot affects the fluffiness, taste, and cooking speed of your rice. Common types include non-stick, stainless steel, and ceramic. Each has its advantages and disadvantages in terms of ease of cleaning, durability, and cooking performance.

Brands and Quality:

• Reliable brands: Choose a well-known and reliable brand for your rice cooker. Japanese brands like Panasonic, Tiger, and Zojirushi are known for their design, quality, and durability.
• Durability: Look for a rice cooker that is made of durable materials, such as aluminium or stainless steel. Reading online reviews can also help you assess the quality and longevity of different brands and models.
• Accessories: Many rice cookers come with accessories like spatulas and measuring cups. Consider a compact design to save space, and look for features like touch sensors that improve ease of operation and cleaning.

Preparing the salmon

To prepare the salmon, start by checking that it is fresh. Look for a fillet that is firm, smooth, shiny, and has no discolouration or brown spots. It should also smell fresh.

Next, pat the salmon dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. Then, season the salmon with your preferred spices and herbs. Sprinkle salt and pepper onto both sides of the fish, and add other seasonings such as garlic powder, lemon zest, or dill for extra flavour. You could also try a blend of smoked paprika, cumin, and black pepper for a smoky flavour, or dried oregano, thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, salt, and pepper for a Mediterranean-inspired dish.

Once seasoned, place the salmon in a shallow dish and cover it tightly with plastic wrap. Allow it to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight, to allow the flavours to penetrate the fish.

If you are using a whole fish, cut three half-inch clefts on each side of the fish. If you are using fillets, use a sharp knife to create three to four quarter- to half-inch slits on both sides.

Seasoning the salmon

Choosing Seasonings:

First, decide on the seasonings you want to use. You can go with a classic combination like lemon and dill, or be more adventurous with options like soy sauce, ginger, or paprika. You can also keep it simple with just salt and pepper, or use a variety of herbs and spices to create different flavour profiles. For example, a Mediterranean-inspired blend might include dried oregano, thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Preparing the Salmon:

Before seasoning, start by patting the salmon dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This will help the seasonings adhere better to the fish. Then, generously sprinkle your chosen seasonings onto both sides of the salmon fillet. You can also add other seasonings such as garlic powder, lemon zest, or dill for extra flavour. If you're using a liquid seasoning, like soy sauce, pour it over the salmon and use your hands to ensure the fillet is evenly coated.

Marinating:

Once seasoned, place the salmon in a shallow dish and cover it tightly with plastic wrap. Allow the salmon to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to overnight. This step is optional but will help the flavours penetrate the fish, resulting in a more flavourful dish.

Timing of Seasoning:

It is important to season the salmon before placing it in the rice cooker. If you add salt after the salmon is cooked, it may draw out moisture and dry out your fish.

Final Tips:

When it comes to seasoning, don't be afraid to experiment and find what works best for your taste buds. You can also try adding other ingredients like garlic, ginger, or spring onion to the rice cooker to enhance the flavour of your dish. Remember, the key to a great-tasting dish is often in the seasoning, so have fun and get creative!

Adding liquid to the rice cooker

There are several options for the type of liquid you can use. Water is the most common choice and works well for steaming salmon. However, you can also use broth or stock, which will add flavour to the salmon during steaming. Chicken, vegetable, or seafood broth are all suitable options. Alternatively, you could use white wine to enhance the taste of the fish.

If you are seasoning the salmon without using liquids, you will need to add water to the rice cooker. It is recommended to add 1 to 3 cups of water to the bottom of the rice cooker to ensure the fish cooks thoroughly.

For recipes that include rice, such as salmon and egg rice, you will need to add water or broth to cook the rice. The liquid is mixed with the sauces and seasonings and added to the rice cooker with the rice and salmon.

Setting the rice cooker and steaming time

Step 1: Prepare the Rice Cooker

Firstly, you will need to add water to the designated level in your rice cooker. This is important as the steam generated from the water will cook your salmon gently and keep it moist. If you want to enhance the flavour of your salmon, you can use alternatives such as broth, stock, or even white wine instead of water.

Step 2: Season the Salmon

Before placing the salmon in the rice cooker, season your salmon fillets with your choice of herbs, spices, and a squeeze of lemon juice. You can be creative with your seasonings and use options such as garlic powder, lemon zest, dill, or soy sauce and ginger for an Asian-inspired dish.

Step 3: Place the Salmon in the Rice Cooker

Place the seasoned salmon fillets on a heatproof plate or in a steamer basket inside the rice cooker. If using a plate, ensure it is raised slightly above the water level to allow for even steaming.

Step 4: Set the Temperature and Timer

Set your rice cooker to the lowest temperature setting if available. Otherwise, simply turn on the rice cooker to begin the steaming process. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of your salmon fillets and your desired level of doneness. As a guide, check your salmon fillets after 10 minutes of cooking. For thinner fillets, check after 5 minutes to prevent overcooking.

Step 5: Check for Doneness

To check if your salmon is cooked, use a fork to gently flake the fish apart. The salmon is done when it easily flakes apart and appears opaque throughout. The flesh should be moist and tender, not raw or mushy. If it is not ready, continue cooking and check again in 2-minute intervals to avoid overcooking.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Once your salmon is cooked to your liking, remove it from the rice cooker and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the flavours to settle and ensures the fish remains tender and moist. Finally, serve your steamed salmon with your choice of sides, such as fluffy white rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad.

Remember, the key to achieving the perfect steamed salmon in your rice cooker is to monitor the cooking process closely and adjust the timing and temperature as needed. With a little practice, you'll be able to master this healthy and delicious way of cooking salmon.

Frequently asked questions