Steaming Tofu: Using Your Rice Cooker For A Quick Meal

Tofu is a staple in Asian cuisine and is a great source of protein. It is also incredibly easy to prepare as a side or main dish. You can steam tofu in a rice cooker in a few simple steps. First, cut your tofu into bite-sized pieces and rinse it under cold water. Then, place the tofu in a bowl and put it in your rice cooker with a steamer rack. You can also add seasonings like garlic powder or minced garlic, and oil for extra flavour. Set your rice cooker and let it work its magic!

How to steam tofu in a rice cooker for beginners

Steaming tofu is a great way to add variety to your dinner table. It's a simple and healthy dish that can be prepared in a rice cooker with just a few steps. Here's a beginner-friendly guide to help you get started:

Choose the Right Type of Tofu

Begin by selecting the right tofu for steaming. Firm or extra-firm tofu is ideal, as it holds its shape well during the cooking process and doesn't break apart easily. Soft or silken tofu, on the other hand, may become mushy.

Prepare the Tofu

Before adding tofu to your rice cooker, remove any excess water by pressing it with a paper towel or tofu press. This step helps the tofu cook evenly and allows it to better absorb flavours from your marinade or sauce.

Once pressed, cut the tofu into bite-sized pieces. This ensures even cooking and allows for better flavour absorption.

Marinate the Tofu (Optional)

To add more flavour to your dish, you can marinate the tofu in your favourite sauce or seasoning. Try soy sauce, sesame oil, teriyaki sauce, or even curry powder. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, but the longer you leave it, the more flavourful it will be.

Prepare the Rice Cooker

Now, it's time to prepare your rice cooker. If your cooker has a steaming basket, you can use it to cook the tofu separately from the rice. Place the tofu in the basket and set it aside.

If you don't have a steaming basket, not to worry. Simply place a steamer rack inside your rice cooker and put a bowl of tofu on top of it.

Cook the Tofu

The cooking process will depend on your rice cooker model. For pot-style rice cookers, add your ingredients, set the timer, and let the cooker work its magic. Be sure to follow the cook time instructions for your specific model.

If you're using a simple one-button rice cooker, keep an eye on the tofu to avoid overcooking or undercooking. Check on it halfway through the cooking process to ensure even cooking.

Serve and Enjoy

Once your tofu is cooked, it's time to serve. Tofu can be enjoyed warm or cold, as a main dish or appetizer. For a simple dish, drizzle steamed tofu with a fragrant aromatic oil and a rich sauce. You can also serve it with steamed rice for a heartier meal.

Tips and Tricks

• Use a non-stick rice cooker or spray the inside with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
• If you're short on time, skip the marinade and simply season the tofu with salt, pepper, or your favourite spices.
• For extra crispy tofu, try pan-frying it before adding it to the rice cooker.
• Don't be afraid to experiment with different sauces, marinades, and types of tofu.

Happy cooking!

The best tofu types for steaming in a rice cooker

Steaming tofu is a great way to add variety to your dinner table. It can be served warm or cold, and it's a simple and surprisingly satisfying dish. While it's possible to eat tofu raw, steaming it can help improve its texture and flavour.

Soft tofu is the best type of tofu for steaming. It has a delicate texture and creates a silkier, less watery mouthfeel when steamed. The steaming process also helps to remove the raw soybean taste from the tofu, giving it a cleaner flavour.

However, it is possible to steam medium or firm tofu as well. If you prefer a firmer texture, you can use these types of tofu, but be aware that the steaming process may make them softer and soggier.

When preparing soft tofu for steaming, be sure to handle it with care as it can break apart easily. Slice the tofu into 1/2" (1 cm) thick pieces and arrange them on a plate that fits into your steamer with minimal overlap. Place the plate onto the steaming rack and cover it.

Steam the tofu for about 6 minutes. Then, carefully remove the plate from the steamer and let it cool for a few minutes before draining off as much water as possible.

After steaming, tofu can be paired with a variety of sauces and spices to enhance its flavour. Popular choices include soy sauce, sesame oil, green onion, ginger, garlic, and chilli oil.

So, if you're looking to create a tasty and satisfying tofu dish, steaming soft tofu in a rice cooker is a great option!

How to prepare tofu for steaming in a rice cooker

Choosing the Right Tofu

The first step in preparing tofu for steaming in a rice cooker is to choose the right type of tofu. It is recommended to use firm or extra-firm tofu as it holds its shape well during the cooking process and doesn't become mushy. Soft or silken tofu, on the other hand, may not be ideal as it can break apart easily.

Pressing the Tofu

Before cutting the tofu, it is important to remove any excess water. This can be done by pressing the tofu with a paper towel or a tofu press. Pressing helps the tofu absorb more flavour and cook evenly. It also prevents excess moisture from diluting your marinade or sauce. Place the tofu between paper towels or a clean kitchen towel and press it with a heavy object for at least 15 minutes.

Cutting the Tofu

Once the tofu has been pressed, cut it into small, bite-sized pieces. This ensures even cooking and allows the tofu to absorb more flavour from the marinade or sauce. Cutting the tofu into smaller pieces also makes it easier to mix with the rice later.

Marinating the Tofu

To add more flavour to your dish, you can marinate the tofu in your favourite sauce or seasoning. Common options include soy sauce, sesame oil, teriyaki sauce, or curry powder. Marinate the tofu for at least 30 minutes before cooking, but the longer you marinate, the more flavourful it will be.

Preparing the Rice Cooker

Make sure you have the right type of rice cooker, which is a pot-style rice cooker that offers more control over temperature and cooking time. Rinse your brown or black rice and add it to the pot. If you're using a steamer rack, place it inside the rice cooker, and then place the bowl of tofu on top.

Adding Seasoning and Flavour

To enhance the flavour of your dish, mix soy sauce with water in a separate bowl and pour it over the tofu and rice mixture. You can also add garlic powder or minced garlic, along with some oil for added taste.

Timing and Cooking

The key to perfectly cooked tofu in a rice cooker is timing. Follow the cook time instructions for your specific rice cooker model, and check on the mixture halfway through to ensure even cooking. Close the lid and let everything cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and slightly browned.

How to add flavour to tofu steamed in a rice cooker

How to Steam Tofu in a Rice Cooker: Adding Flavour

Steaming tofu in a rice cooker is an easy and convenient way to prepare healthy and delicious meals. Here are some tips and tricks to add flavour to your steamed tofu:

Choose the Right Type of Tofu:

Firm or extra-firm tofu is best for steaming as it holds its shape well and doesn't break apart easily. Soft or silken tofu may become mushy.

Press and Cut the Tofu:

Before steaming, press the tofu between paper towels to remove excess water. This helps the tofu cook evenly and absorb more flavour. Cut the tofu into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking and easier mixing with rice.

Marinate the Tofu:

Marinate the tofu in your favourite sauce or seasoning for at least 30 minutes before cooking. Try soy sauce, sesame oil, teriyaki sauce, or curry powder. The longer you marinate, the more flavourful it will be.

Use a Pot-Style Rice Cooker:

A pot-style rice cooker gives you more control over temperature and cooking time, ensuring your tofu is cooked perfectly.

Add Seasoning to the Rice Cooker:

Mix soy sauce and water, and pour it over the tofu and rice mixture in the cooker. Add garlic powder, minced garlic, and oil for extra flavour.

Experiment with Different Flavours:

Don't be afraid to try new things! Experiment with different sauces, marinades, and spices. Tofu is versatile and can take on various flavours.

Use the Steaming Basket:

If your rice cooker has a steaming basket, use it to cook your tofu separately from the rice. This helps prevent the tofu from getting mushy and retains its texture.

Timing is Key:

Follow the cook time instructions for your rice cooker model. Check on the tofu and rice mixture halfway through cooking to ensure even cooking.

Add Toppings and Garnishes:

Serve your steamed tofu with toppings such as green onions, cilantro, sesame seeds, or sliced chilli peppers for added flavour and texture.

Try a Tofu Red Curry:

For a tasty Thai-inspired dish, try making tofu red curry in your rice cooker. Stir-fry tofu cubes until golden brown, then mix with red curry paste, coconut milk, and vegetables of your choice.

Soak the Tofu:

Before cooking, soak the tofu in cold water for at least 10 minutes. This helps the tofu retain its shape and prevents it from falling apart.

Use More Water:

When cooking tofu in a rice cooker, use more water than you would for rice alone. Tofu absorbs a lot of water, so add an extra half cup of water for every cup of rice.

Pan-Fry the Tofu:

For an extra crispy texture, pan-fry the tofu before adding it to the rice cooker. This adds a golden crust and enhances the flavour.

How to serve tofu steamed in a rice cooker

Ingredients

• Firm or extra-firm tofu
• Red curry paste
• Coconut milk
• Vegetables of your choice (bell peppers, onions, and carrots)
• Rice
• Soy sauce
• Water
• Salt and pepper
• Green onions
• Cilantro
• Sesame seeds
• Sliced chili peppers

Method

First, cut the tofu into small cubes and stir-fry them until golden brown. This adds texture and flavour that will complement the red curry sauce.

Next, mix the red curry paste with coconut milk. The amount of red curry paste you add will depend on how spicy you like your food. Start with one tablespoon of red curry paste to half a cup of coconut milk, and adjust to your taste.

Now, add your vegetables and tofu to the rice cooker, and pour in the red curry sauce. Add enough water to cook your desired amount of rice (usually a 1:1 ratio). Close the lid and set the cooker for 20-25 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.

You can serve the tofu with rice and top with green onions, cilantro, sesame seeds, or sliced chili peppers.

Tips

• Use firm or extra-firm tofu, as it holds its shape better and won't fall apart.
• Stir-frying the tofu before adding it to the rice cooker adds a nice texture and flavour.
• Adjust the ratio of red curry paste and coconut milk to your taste.
• Use vegetables that cook well in a rice cooker, like bell peppers, onions, and carrots.
• Don't forget to add enough water for the rice.
• If you want to add more flavour, marinate the tofu in your favourite sauce or seasoning for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
• For an extra crispy texture, pan-fry the tofu before adding it to the rice cooker.

Frequently asked questions