Steaming Spinach: Using Your Rice Cooker For Healthy Greens

Rice cookers are a convenient way to cook rice, but they can also be used to steam vegetables such as spinach. Spinach is a delicate vegetable, so it only needs to be added after the rice has finished cooking or towards the end of the cooking process. This way, it will be cooked enough but still retain its bright green colour. If you are using frozen spinach, it is recommended to add it at the beginning of the cooking process. Most rice cookers come with a steamer basket, but if yours does not, you can use a small trivet or a bowl, plate, or colander to steam the spinach. Simply add water to the cooking pot, place the spinach in the steamer basket or on a plate, and select the appropriate setting on your cooker.

Use the right amount of water

When steaming spinach in a rice cooker, it is important to use the right amount of water. Using too much or too little water can affect the cooking time and the texture of the spinach. The amount of water you need will depend on the size and type of your rice cooker, as well as the amount of spinach you are cooking.

For a basic rice cooker with a single "on" button, the recommended amount of water is usually 2 to 3 cups. This is enough to generate steam without boiling over. If you are using a processor-controlled rice cooker, the amount of water may vary depending on the size and shape of the cooker. Always refer to the manual for specific instructions.

When steaming spinach, it is important to ensure that the water does not come into direct contact with the spinach leaves. Place the spinach in a steamer basket or a small bowl that fits inside your rice cooker. The basket or bowl should be elevated above the water level. This allows the spinach to cook gently in the rising steam without becoming waterlogged.

The amount of water you use will also depend on whether you are steaming the spinach on its own or with other ingredients. For example, if you are making a spinach risotto in your rice cooker, the water will be absorbed by the rice during the cooking process. In this case, follow the recommended rice-to-water ratio provided by the rice cooker manufacturer or the specific recipe you are using.

Additionally, consider the texture and consistency you want to achieve with your steamed spinach. For lightly wilted spinach, use less water, as this will result in gentler steam. If you are cooking other ingredients simultaneously, such as rice or more robust vegetables, adjust the water level accordingly, taking into account the overall cooking time and the desired doneness of each ingredient.

Use the steamer basket

To steam spinach in a rice cooker, you'll need to use the steamer basket. First, add the recommended amount of water to your cooker, which is usually 2 to 3 cups. If you're using an Instant 20-Cup Rice Cooker, you can easily measure the water using the level marks in the CarbReduce steam basket.

Next, prepare the spinach. It's best to use fresh spinach leaves, as frozen spinach is not recommended for this method. You can buy pre-washed spinach leaves to make things easier. If you're using whole spinach leaves, be sure to chop them up pretty finely.

Now, fill the steamer basket with the spinach and place it inside the cooking pot, positioning it over the water. Cover the pot with the lid. If your rice cooker is a simple model with just an “on” button, push the button. If it's a more sophisticated model with a processor, select the steam option from the menu or press the steam button. Set an appropriate steaming time, referring to the manual if needed. The timer will start counting when the water comes to a boil.

Once the spinach is steamed to your preferred doneness, unplug the pot and carefully remove the steamer basket. You can now serve the spinach as a side dish or add it to your rice.

Timing is key

The timing of when you add the spinach to the rice cooker is crucial to ensuring it is cooked to perfection. Spinach is a delicate vegetable, and overcooking can cause it to turn brown and mushy. On the other hand, adding it too late will result in spinach that is not cooked enough.

If you are adding spinach to your rice, it is best to add it towards the very end of the rice's cooking time. For example, if you are using fresh spinach, add it to the rice cooker with about one minute of cooking time left. This will allow the spinach to steam without overcooking.

If you are steaming spinach on its own in the rice cooker, the timing will depend on the type of rice cooker you have. For a basic push-button rice cooker, simply push the button and let it steam until the spinach reaches your desired level of doneness. For a processor-controlled rice cooker, select the steam option from the menu and set the time. Remember that the timer starts from when the water comes to a boil, so your actual cooking time will be longer than the time you set. With practice, you will get a sense of how long it takes to steam spinach to your liking.

Additionally, the size of the spinach leaves or pieces can impact the cooking time. Smaller, chopped spinach will cook faster than larger leaves. Adjust your timing accordingly, and keep a close eye on the spinach to avoid overcooking.

Add spinach to rice

Firstly, prepare the rice cooker by adding the recommended amount of water, usually 2 to 3 cups, to the cooker. If you are making spinach risotto, heat some olive oil or butter in a frying pan over medium heat, and cook onion, garlic, and mushrooms for a few minutes before adding the rice and stirring to combine. Transfer this mixture to the rice cooker, along with chicken stock or stock of your choice, and rice wine or dry white wine, and season with salt and pepper.

Next, prepare the spinach. If using frozen spinach, simply add 1 cup of it to the rice cooker after pouring in the rice. If using fresh spinach, chop it finely and add it to the top of the rice towards the end of the cooking time. For more delicate vegetables like spinach, it is best to add them to the rice cooker after the rice has finished cooking, as the residual heat will be enough to cook them.

Now, it's time to cook the rice. If your rice cooker has a steamer basket, fill it with the spinach and place it inside the cooker. Cover the cooker with the lid and press the button to start cooking. If your rice cooker has a processor, select the steam option from the menu and set the time using the up and down buttons. Once the rice is cooked, add the spinach and mix it into the rice.

Finally, serve the rice and spinach with your choice of toppings or seasonings. For example, you could add salt, pepper, garlic powder, melted butter, or lemon juice. Enjoy your nutritious and delicious meal!

Seasoning and toppings

Butter

Butter is a classic choice for steamed spinach. It adds a rich, creamy flavour and mouthfeel to the dish. For the best results, use a high-quality butter, such as European butter, and melt it before drizzling it over the spinach.

Lemon Juice

A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten up the flavour of steamed spinach. It adds a tangy, citrusy note that complements the buttery spinach beautifully. If possible, use freshly squeezed lemon juice instead of the bottled variety for a more vibrant flavour.

Garlic

Garlic is another versatile ingredient that can enhance the flavour of steamed spinach. You can use fresh, finely chopped garlic cloves or garlic powder. If using fresh garlic, be sure to cook it first to mellow its sharpness.

Salt and Pepper

Salt and pepper are essential seasonings that can bring out the natural flavours of steamed spinach. Use kosher salt or a similar coarse-grained salt, and freshly ground black pepper for the best results. Be mindful of the amount of salt you add, especially if using fine salt, as it can be easy to over-season.

Red Pepper Flakes

For a spicy kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes. This will give your steamed spinach a mild heat that complements the other flavours in the dish.

Parmesan Cheese

Finely grated Parmesan cheese adds a salty, savoury note to steamed spinach. It can also provide a pleasant texture contrast to the tender spinach leaves. Sprinkle it on top of the steamed spinach just before serving.

Hollandaise Sauce

For an indulgent touch, drizzle your steamed spinach with hollandaise sauce. This classic French sauce is made with butter, egg yolks, and lemon juice, resulting in a rich, creamy, and tangy flavour that pairs well with the spinach.

Olive Oil

Extra virgin olive oil can be used in place of butter for a healthier option. It has a fruity, pungent flavour that can enhance the taste of steamed spinach.

Mushrooms

Sliced mushrooms can be sautéed with onions and garlic to add an earthy, savoury flavour to your steamed spinach. They also provide a nice texture contrast.

Pine Nuts

Toasted pine nuts add a crunchy texture and nutty flavour to the dish. They can be used as a topping or mixed into the steamed spinach for a more integrated flavour and texture experience.

Frequently asked questions