Vegetable Steamer Rice: A Quick, Easy Cooking Method

If you're looking for a foolproof method to cook rice without a rice cooker, you can use a vegetable steamer. This method is also perfect for cooking rice in small batches, reducing the number of dishes you have to wash, and for cooking while travelling or camping. Electric vegetable steamers are especially convenient and efficient, allowing you to achieve perfectly cooked rice every time.

Rinse the rice to remove excess starch and impurities

Rinsing the rice before cooking it is an important step to ensure your rice is fluffy and free of any impurities. The process of rinsing helps to remove any excess starch that has built up on the surface of the rice grains. This excess starch is a natural byproduct of the rice's storage process and can cause your cooked rice to become sticky and clumpy. By rinsing the rice, you are effectively washing away this layer of starch, ensuring your cooked rice is light and fluffy.

To rinse the rice, simply place the desired amount into a bowl or container and cover it with water. Swirl the rice around with your hand, gently mixing it with the water. You will notice the water becoming cloudy as the starch is released from the rice. Drain this cloudy water and repeat the process until the water runs clear. This usually takes around 3-4 rinses.

After rinsing, use a strainer to drain the rice effectively. Make sure to drain the rice thoroughly, removing as much water as possible. This ensures that you don't add any extra moisture to the rice during the cooking process, which can affect the texture and cooking time.

Rinsing the rice is especially important if you are using a shorter-grain variety, such as sushi rice or sticky rice. These types of rice tend to have higher levels of excess starch, which can make them extremely sticky if not properly rinsed. For longer-grain varieties, such as basmati rice, a simple rinse may not be enough. It is recommended to soak these types of rice for at least an hour to achieve the best results.

By taking the time to rinse your rice thoroughly, you are ensuring that your cooked rice will be of the highest quality. This simple step can make a significant difference in the texture and taste of your rice, making it well worth the extra effort.

Use a 1:2 ratio of rice to water

Using a 1:2 ratio of rice to water, you can cook rice in a vegetable steamer by following these steps:

Firstly, measure one part rice and two parts water into the steamer's rice bowl. You can add a pinch of salt at this stage, if desired. Check the rice instructions, but the usual measurement is two parts water to one part rice.

Next, fill the steamer's reservoir to its maximum level and assemble the steamer compartments and drip tray as you normally would. Position the rice bowl inside the steamer compartment, and cover it with the lid or another steamer compartment containing other foods.

Set the timer to 25 to 30 minutes for white rice. If your steamer has a specific push-button setting for cooking rice, use that instead.

Once the timer goes off, carefully open the steamer, being mindful of the hot steam that will escape. Test the rice. If it's not evenly cooked, replace the lid and leave it for another 5 to 10 minutes. The benefit of using a vegetable steamer is that you can do this without spoiling the rice.

When the rice is fully cooked, remove it from the steamer and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes before fluffing it with a fork and serving.

If you don't have access to a rice bowl, you can also steam your rice directly in a steamer compartment. This method does away with the question of how much liquid to use, as the rice will absorb as much moisture as it needs from the steam while it cooks.

To cook the rice directly in the steamer, first, unroll and fold a piece of cheesecloth so that it lines the compartment with three or four layers. Dampen the cloth and press it back into the steamer.

Next, measure and pour the rice into the steamer compartment, spreading it around to make an even layer.

Then, fill the reservoir to the maximum level, set the timer, and turn on the steamer. Steam plain white rice for around 25 minutes, and brown or black rice for 45 minutes to an hour, or until it's tender.

Finally, lift the cooked rice using the corners of the cheesecloth as a handle and tip it into a serving bowl. Cover loosely and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.

Set the timer for 20-30 minutes

Once you've prepared your rice and water ratio, added a pinch of salt, and assembled your steamer, it's time to set the timer for 20-30 minutes. This duration is suitable for cooking white rice, which typically takes less time than brown or red rice. If you're using a rice cooker with a specific rice-cooking setting, use that instead of the timer.

The cooking time will depend on the type of rice and the model of your electric steamer. White rice usually takes around 20-30 minutes, while brown rice may require up to 45-50 minutes. These timings are just guidelines, and the actual cooking time may vary based on factors such as the brand and model of your steamer and your desired texture for the rice.

During the cooking process, the rice will absorb moisture from the steam. After setting the timer, you can leave the rice to cook without worrying about adding more liquid.

If you're using a rice cooker or electric steamer, refer to the instructions manual to determine the appropriate steaming time for rice. These appliances often have preset functions or recommended timings tailored to different types of rice.

Fluff the rice with a fork when done

Once the rice is cooked, it's time to fluff it up! Using a fork, gently fluff the rice to separate the grains. Be careful not to press the rice too hard, as it may become sticky. This step is important because it helps to ensure that your rice is light and fluffy, rather than clumped together. It also helps to distribute the heat and moisture evenly throughout the rice, ensuring that it is perfectly cooked.

If you're using a rice cooker or electric steamer, carefully open the lid and use a fork or a rice paddle to fluff the rice. If you're cooking rice on the stovetop, remove the lid and use a fork to gently fluff the rice in the pot. Remember to always take caution when handling hot rice, as the steam can be scalding. It's a good idea to use oven mitts or pot holders to protect your hands from the heat.

The fluffing process is an important step in achieving the perfect texture for your rice. By gently separating the grains, you can ensure that your rice is light and airy, rather than dense and sticky. This technique is especially important if you're cooking long-grain rice varieties, such as basmati or jasmine rice, which are known for their delicate, fluffy texture.

After fluffing the rice, it's a good idea to let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the rice to cool slightly and gives the starches time to re-crystallize, resulting in a firmer texture. This step is crucial if you want to achieve that perfect, restaurant-quality rice texture. So, be patient, give your rice a gentle fluff, and let it rest before serving up a delicious bowl of fluffy, perfectly cooked rice.

Let the rice rest for 5-10 minutes before serving

Once your rice is cooked, it's important to let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This is because the starches in the rice are still soft and gelatinous when it's freshly cooked, and fluffing it at this point will make a sticky mess. After resting, the starches re-crystallize, and the rice is firm enough to retain its shape. This is true whether you're cooking rice in a rice cooker, a pot, or a vegetable steamer.

If you've cooked your rice in a vegetable steamer, you can simply leave it in the steamer with the lid on to rest. This will also keep it warm until you're ready to serve.

When the rice has rested, use a fork or a rice paddle to gently fluff the rice and separate the grains. Be cautious not to press the rice too hard, as it may become sticky. Now your rice is ready to serve!

Frequently asked questions