Steaming Sticky Rice: Using Bamboo Steamer For Perfect Results

Sticky rice is a versatile ingredient used in many forms of Asian cooking, especially in Laos and Thailand. It is also called sweet rice or glutinous rice. It has a chewy texture and is often paired with savoury or sweet dishes.

To cook sticky rice in a bamboo steamer, you will need to soak the rice in water for at least 2 hours or up to 24 hours, depending on how soft you want the rice to be. Rinse the rice several times, draining and replacing the water until it is reasonably clear. Then, fill a pot with water and place it on the stove to boil. While the water is boiling, drain the rice and transfer it to the bamboo steamer. Place the steamer on top of the pot, ensuring that the water does not touch the bottom of the steamer. Cover and steam the rice for 20-45 minutes, flipping the rice halfway through if using a bamboo cone steamer. The rice is ready when it is chewy and cooked.

Soak the rice for at least 2 hours, but ideally 6-24 hours for a softer texture

To achieve the perfect sticky rice texture, it is essential to soak the rice for an adequate amount of time. While a minimum of 2 hours is required, soaking the rice for 6 to 24 hours will result in a softer and more desirable texture. This extended soaking time allows the rice grains to absorb more water, making them plumper and softer when cooked.

The process of soaking the rice is a crucial step in preparing sticky rice. It involves placing the rice in a bowl or container and covering it with water. The water level should be at least 3 inches above the rice, as the grains will expand during the soaking process. After the allotted time has passed, the rice should be drained, and any excess water can be shaken off.

It is worth noting that the type of rice used is also important. When purchasing, look for labels that say "sweet rice," "Thai rice," or "glutinous rice." These types of rice have a higher starch content, which contributes to the sticky texture we desire.

Additionally, the equipment used for cooking plays a vital role. A bamboo steamer is the traditional and preferred method, as it allows for even cooking and helps retain moisture. Before placing the rice in the steamer, it is recommended to line it with parchment paper, cheesecloth, or a natural steamer liner to prevent sticking.

By following these steps and allowing the rice to soak for an extended period, you will be well on your way to creating delicious and soft sticky rice.

Rinse the rice several times until the water is clear

Rinsing the rice is an important step in preparing sticky rice. Place the rice in a large bowl and cover it with water. Agitate the rice with your fingers, swirling it around in the water to release the starch attached to the outside of the grains. The water will turn cloudy, and after about 30 seconds, it's time to drain the water and replace it with fresh water. Repeat this process three to four times until the water is reasonably clear.

It is important to note that you should not use hot water for rinsing, as this can affect the texture of the rice. Instead, use cool or room temperature water for rinsing and soaking.

After rinsing, drain the rice and transfer it to a bowl. Cover the rice with water, adding about one inch of water above the rice. This soaking step is crucial as it helps to soften the grains before steaming. The rice should be soaked for at least two hours, but preferably longer—overnight if possible. However, do not soak the rice for more than 24 hours, as the grains can become too soft and break apart.

Steam the rice for 20-45 minutes

Now that your rice is prepped and ready to go, it's time to steam. Place the stainless steel with water inside and the cheese-clothed-covered rice in the bamboo steamer. Turn the stovetop to high heat and cook for 20-45 minutes. The cooking time will depend on how much rice you are cooking and how long you soaked it for. If you soaked your rice for less than 5 hours, it will take longer to cook (20-25 minutes).

Check your rice 15 minutes into the steaming process. Set a timer if that helps. Carefully taste-test the rice by taking a small piece with a long fork or wooden spoon. Be very careful of the hot steam! The rice should be cooked but still a little al dente and not crunchy. If it's ready, great! If not, cook for another 5-10 minutes.

This next part is extremely important, especially if this is your first time making sticky rice. You're going to flip the rice. Carefully remove the stackable steamer from the stainless steel pot and open the cheesecloth. It's going to be hot, so take extra care. Then, slowly flip the rice until the rounded bottom part is on top. Use a fork or wooden spoon to fluff the rice and let the moisture and steam evaporate so the rice doesn't become mushy. Leave it briefly, then wrap the cheesecloth back over the rice.

Cover with the lid and place the bamboo steamer back into the pot of water. Be careful of the boiling water. Steam the rice for another 5-10 minutes until it is soft and chewy.

Turn off the heat, remove the rice basket from the pot, and set it on a steaming rack or sink. Fluff the rice again and leave the cheesecloth open. Let it cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle salt on the rice if you prefer.

Flip the rice halfway through steaming

Flipping the rice is an important step in the process of cooking sticky rice with a bamboo steamer. It ensures that the rice cooks evenly and helps to prevent it from becoming mushy. Here's a detailed guide on how to flip the rice halfway through steaming:

After the rice has been steaming for about 15 minutes, it's time to flip it. First, carefully remove the bamboo steamer from the pot of boiling water. Make sure you use oven mitts or a kitchen towel to protect your hands from the hot steam.

Next, find a flat surface, such as a clean worktop or countertop, and press the bottom of the bamboo steamer against it. This action will help loosen the rice from the bottom of the steamer. Then, quickly and carefully flip the steamer so that the rice that was on the top is now at the bottom and vice versa. You might need to jiggle the steamer a little to resettle the rice after flipping.

At this point, it's a good idea to check the water level in the steamer pot. Ensure there is enough water for another 5 minutes of steaming. If the water level is low, carefully add a small amount of boiling water to the pot.

Now, place the bamboo steamer with the flipped rice back on top of the pot of boiling water. Cover it with the lid and continue steaming for another 5-10 minutes. The total steaming time, including the time before flipping, should be around 20-25 minutes, depending on your preferred texture for the rice.

Finally, carefully remove the bamboo steamer from the pot again and check if the rice is cooked to your liking. It should be soft, chewy, and sticky. If not, you can steam it for a few more minutes. Once it's done, spread the rice out on a clean surface to release the steam and fluff it up a little before serving.

Flipping the rice is a crucial step in cooking sticky rice with a bamboo steamer, and it helps ensure even cooking and the perfect texture for this delicious and versatile dish.

Serve immediately, or keep covered to prevent drying out

Once your sticky rice is cooked, it's best to serve it immediately. Glutinous rice dries out and hardens quickly at room temperature, so it's important to keep it warm and covered before serving.

If you have any leftovers, they can be stored in a sealed container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, follow the same steaming steps outlined above, but without the initial soaking.

You can also freeze leftover sticky rice. To do this, spread the rice out on a baking tray and place it in the freezer. Once frozen, transfer the rice to a freezer bag. It will keep in the freezer for up to six months.

Frequently asked questions