Steaming Zucchini In A Rice Cooker: Easy, Quick, And Tasty!

Steaming zucchini is a quick, easy, and healthy way to cook this versatile vegetable. It can be served as a side dish or incorporated into other recipes such as rice dishes, salads, casseroles, frittatas, and pasta. One way to steam zucchini is to use a rice cooker. To do this, simply add water to the rice cooker, bring it to a boil, and then add the zucchini to the steamer basket. Cover and steam until the zucchini is tender, which usually takes around 10 to 15 minutes. You can also steam zucchini on the stovetop using a saucepan and steamer basket, following a similar process.

How to cut zucchini for steaming in a rice cooker

To cut zucchini for steaming in a rice cooker, you'll want to start by washing the zucchini and patting it dry. Using a sharp knife, trim away and discard the ends of the zucchini. Then, you can cut the zucchini in half lengthwise, and then cut each half into quarters lengthwise, creating long, thin spears. If you prefer smaller pieces, you can cut the zucchini crosswise into rounds after trimming the ends. The key is to cut the zucchini into evenly sized pieces to ensure uniform cooking.

Once you have cut the zucchini to your desired size, you can place it into a steamer basket or insert, making sure not to overcrowd the basket to allow for even steaming. Add water to the rice cooker, ensuring it reaches just below the bottom of the steamer basket. Bring the water to a boil, add the zucchini, cover the rice cooker, and steam until the zucchini is tender. The steaming time will depend on your desired doneness, usually ranging from 5 to 15 minutes.

It's important to note that the specific instructions may vary depending on the type of rice cooker you have, so be sure to refer to your rice cooker's manual for detailed guidelines. Additionally, you can experiment with different seasonings and ingredients, such as olive oil, garlic, herbs, or cheese, to enhance the flavor of your steamed zucchini.

How long to steam zucchini in a rice cooker

How to Steam Zucchini in a Rice Cooker

Step 1: Prepare the zucchini

First, trim the ends off the zucchini and cut each one in half. Then, cut each half into quarters lengthwise.

Step 2: Set up the rice cooker

Place a steamer insert into your rice cooker and fill it with water until the water level is just below the bottom of the steamer.

Step 3: Steam the zucchini

Add the zucchini to the steamer insert, cover, and allow it to steam until tender. This should take around 5 minutes if you prefer your zucchini to retain some crispness, and up to 15 minutes if you want it very tender.

Step 4: Season and serve

Once steamed, transfer the zucchini to a large bowl. You can then season it with olive oil, garlic, herbs, salt, and pepper, or any other seasoning of your choice.

Tips:

• For the best flavour and texture, choose smaller zucchini (under 8 inches) as they are sweeter and have fewer seeds.
• Steaming zucchini is a quick and healthy way to cook this versatile vegetable, and it can be served as a side dish or added to casseroles, frittatas, pasta, and salads.
• You can also freeze cooked zucchini for up to 3 months.

How to make zucchini rice in a rice cooker

Ingredients:

• Rice
• Zucchini
• Onion
• Garlic
• Olive oil
• Red pepper flakes
• Milk (oat or regular)
• Salt and pepper
• Chicken broth or water
• Butter
• Grated parmesan cheese

Method:

First, shred or grate your zucchini. You can do this by hand with a box grater or use a food processor.

Next, dice your onion and mince your garlic cloves. Heat some olive oil in the pan of your rice cooker and add the onion and garlic. Sauté these until they are nicely browned.

Now, add the shredded zucchini, salt, and pepper to the rice cooker and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes.

After this, add the milk, followed by the rice. You can use leftover rice or cook it fresh. If cooking rice, you can use a chicken broth base or just water. Add butter and grated parmesan cheese, and stir everything together.

Cook for another 5 minutes over low heat, until everything is heated through, and then serve.

Tips:

You can add some shredded mozzarella cheese and pop the zucchini rice into the oven for 5 minutes until the cheese has melted. You can also add other vegetables such as shredded broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts.

For a creamier texture and flavor, use short-grain rice, and for a healthier option, use oat milk instead of regular milk.

This zucchini rice can be served as a side dish or eaten as a light lunch or snack.

How to store leftover zucchini rice

To store leftover zucchini rice, you'll first want to let it cool down. Then, transfer it to an airtight container or a zippered plastic storage bag. Make sure to remove as much air from the bag as possible before sealing. Place the container or bag in the refrigerator, where your zucchini rice will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.

If you don't think you'll eat the leftovers within that time frame, you can also freeze zucchini rice. Again, make sure it's completely cooled before placing it in a freezer bag. Press the bag to remove as much air as possible, then seal and date the bag before placing it in the freezer. Frozen zucchini rice will stay good for up to one month.

When you're ready to enjoy your leftover zucchini rice, you can reheat it in the microwave or in the oven. If you're reheating it in the microwave, it may turn out slightly moister than when it was first cooked.

What to serve with zucchini rice

Zucchini rice is a tasty and healthy dish that can be served as a side or a main course. It's a great way to incorporate veggies and grains into your meal, and it can be made even more delicious by adding some shredded cheese on top. Here are some ideas on what to serve with zucchini rice:

As a Main Dish

Zucchini rice can be a tasty and satisfying main course on its own. However, if you'd like to make it a more substantial meal, you can add some protein. Try diced chicken, tofu, or pork to create a well-rounded and nutritious one-pot meal.

With Vegetables

Serve your zucchini rice with a variety of vegetables. Some great options include broccoli, mushroom stir-fry, garlic roasted Brussels sprouts, or black bean and corn salsa. These additions will provide even more nutritional value and flavour to your meal.

Alongside Your Favourite Protein

Zucchini rice pairs well with a variety of proteins. Try it with creamy mushroom chicken, Ahi tuna steak, or sofritas. The versatility of zucchini rice makes it a great choice for those who want a tasty and healthy side dish.

In a Taco or Burrito

For a more flavourful and unique meal, replace the usual rice in your tacos or burritos with zucchini rice. This will add a nice creamy texture and a pop of colour to your Mexican-inspired dishes.

With Other Recipes

Zucchini rice can be served with a variety of other recipes to create a well-rounded and delicious meal. Try it with pork schnitzel, garlic ranch chicken skewers, or honey butter-baked chicken. It's a versatile side dish that can complement a range of flavours and cuisines.

Frequently asked questions