Steaming Veggies: Using Your Rice Cooker To Perfection

Rice cookers are not just for cooking rice. They can be used for various cooking purposes, including steaming vegetables. Steaming is considered the best way to cook vegetables as it retains their colour, flavour, and nutrients. There are many ways to steam vegetables in a rice cooker, and it is a straightforward process.

Wash and cut vegetables

The first step to steaming vegetables in a rice cooker is to wash your chosen vegetables thoroughly. Rinse them under running water to ensure any dirt particles are removed.

Once they are clean, you can prepare your vegetables by cutting them into pieces or sticks. This ensures they fit into the rice cooker appropriately. For example, if you are using carrots, cut off the bottom point and top, as this will make them easier to peel. You can then use a vegetable peeler to completely peel off any outer skin.

If you are using broccoli, wash it and then cut it into small pieces, a process known as dicing. You can also add green beans or slice up some bell peppers for a colourful dish.

Prepare the rice cooker

The first step to steaming vegetables in a rice cooker is to prepare the rice cooker itself. This involves several steps, including washing the rice, preparing the vegetables, and assembling the rice cooker.

Firstly, it is important to wash the rice thoroughly and let it sit in the pot with water while you prepare the vegetables. This soaking step is crucial as it improves the taste of the rice. Ideally, the rice should soak for 30 minutes, but a minimum of 10 minutes is sufficient.

While the rice is soaking, prepare the vegetables by washing them and cutting them into the desired size. Common vegetables that can be steamed include broccoli, green beans, carrots, and bell peppers. You can also add protein sources such as salmon. If using carrots, cut off the bottom point and top to make them easier to peel. Then, use a vegetable peeler to remove any outer skin.

After the vegetables are prepared, it's time to assemble the rice cooker. Many rice cookers come with a steamer basket, so simply place the vegetables in the basket and put the basket inside the cooker. If your rice cooker does not have a steamer basket, you can use alternative methods, such as placing a trivet in the cooking pot and putting the vegetables in a bowl or on a plate. Another option is to use a small wire mesh strainer loaded with vegetables over the pot and cover it with a lid.

Once the rice cooker is assembled, you are ready to move on to the next step of steaming the vegetables.

Add seasoning

You can include garnishes and seasonings to your vegetables to enhance their flavour. Oyster sauce, chilli sauce, teriyaki sauce, salt and pepper are all great options. If you want to get creative, you can also experiment with other sauces and spices that you have in your kitchen.

If you're steaming vegetables that go well with cheese, you could try sprinkling some grated parmesan or another cheese of your choice on top. You could also try adding a squeeze of lemon or lime juice to your veggies for a tangy twist.

For an extra flavour boost, try marinating your vegetables before steaming them. A simple marinade can be made by whisking together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs and spices. Toss your veggies in the marinade and let them sit for 30 minutes to an hour before steaming.

If you're steaming vegetables with rice, you can also add seasoning to the rice for extra flavour. Try adding a stock cube or some bouillon powder to the water before cooking, or experiment with different spices like turmeric, cumin, or paprika.

Don't be afraid to get creative and experiment with different seasoning combinations to find your favourite flavours!

Heat the veggies

Heating the Veggies

Now that you have prepared your vegetables and set up your rice cooker, it's time to start steaming!

If you are using a rice cooker with a steamer basket, simply place the basket inside the rice cooker, ensuring it is securely in place. Add your chosen vegetables to the basket. If your rice cooker does not have a steamer basket, you can use a trivet that fits inside, or place a small wire mesh strainer loaded with vegetables over the pot. Cover the rice cooker with a lid.

It is important to note that some rice cookers have different settings. If you are using a one-button model, simply press the button to start cooking. If your rice cooker has multiple settings, choose the "cook" or "steam" option. You may also have the option to set a timer, which is useful to prevent overcooking. Refer to your rice cooker's manual for specific instructions.

Once the rice cooker is on, you have two options. The first option is to wait until the water starts to boil and then quickly add the steamer basket on top of the cooking rice. This ensures that your vegetables are steamed effectively. The second option is to place the steamer basket on top of the rice before turning on the rice cooker and let the cooking process begin. Keep in mind that the second option may result in slightly overcooked vegetables.

The steaming process should take around 5 to 15 minutes, depending on the type of rice cooker and the vegetables you are using. Broccoli, for example, may take longer to steam than carrots. It is recommended to keep an eye on your vegetables to avoid overcooking.

Once the cooking process is complete, turn off the rice cooker. You can serve your steamed vegetables immediately, or let them sit for a few minutes to cool down slightly. Enjoy your perfectly steamed vegetables!

Set the timer

Setting the timer correctly is crucial to steaming vegetables in a rice cooker to prevent overcooking or burning. The timer will only start when the water in the rice cooker is boiling and steaming, so the actual cooking time will be longer than the time set on the timer.

If you are using a one-button model rice cooker, simply press the button to cook. If you are using a processor-operated model, choose the steam option. You may be able to set the timer in increments of one minute. When you have finished setting the timer, the rice cooker may start automatically, or you may need to push the cook button. Check your appliance's manual for specific instructions.

The average steaming time for vegetables is 12 to 15 minutes, but this can vary depending on the brand of appliance and the quality of the vegetables. The total steaming time will also depend on the quantity of vegetables and the type of vegetable, as some steam faster than others. For example, carrots take longer to cook than other vegetables, so if you are steaming multiple types of vegetables, place the carrots at the bottom of the steamer and add other vegetables on top.

After setting the timer, place the lid on the rice cooker, turn it on, and manually time it. Remember to turn the rice cooker off and unplug it when the steaming is complete. Leaving the appliance on a "warm" setting will continue to cook the food.

Frequently asked questions