How to Use Microwavable Rice Cooker: Quick and Easy Rice Cooking Solutions
How to Use Microwavable Rice Cooker?
To use a microwavable rice cooker, start by rinsing and draining the rice.
Then, add water and seasoning to the cooker and secure the lids.
Set the microwave to 70 percent power and cook the rice for 13 minutes.
Afterward, let the rice stand for 5 minutes.
Finally, fluff the rice with a fork and serve.
Adjust the cooking time to your preferences and refrigerate any leftover rice promptly.
To reheat the rice, add a tablespoon or two of water and microwave, covered, for 1 minute.
The microwave rice cooker can also be used to make other dishes, such as potato salad.
Key Points:
- Rinse and drain the rice
- Add water and seasoning, secure the lids
- Cook the rice at 70 percent power for 13 minutes in the microwave
- Let the rice stand for 5 minutes
- Fluff the rice with a fork and serve
- Adjust cooking time to preferences and refrigerate leftovers promptly
Did You Know?
1. Did you know that the first microwave oven, called the “Radarange,” was so large that it stood nearly 6 feet tall and weighed around 750 pounds? Quite a leap from the compact microwaves we use today!
2. For those curious about the icon used to depict microwaves on most appliances, it actually represents a simplified version of the radiation hazard symbol and serves as a reminder that microwaves emit a form of electromagnetic radiation.
3. While it may seem counterintuitive, microwaving rice can actually preserve more nutrients compared to boiling or steaming. Studies have shown that microwaving rice can retain up to 80% of its thiamine (vitamin B1) content, making it a healthier alternative.
4. Ever wondered why your microwaved rice can sometimes turn into such a sticky mess? The culprit lies in the starch. When rice is cooked, some of its starches segregate into a more soluble form that reacts to heat by becoming sticky. Using less water in the microwave can help reduce this stickiness.
5. Did you know that microwave ovens have played a role in some rather peculiar experiments over the years? For instance, a scientist once used a microwave oven to create a tiny diamond by heating it for two hours at 8,000 degrees Fahrenheit. Thankfully, you won’t need such extreme temperatures to cook your rice!
Rinsing And Draining The Rice
Microwavable rice cookers have become increasingly popular due to their convenience and efficiency in cooking rice. Rinsing and draining the rice is one of the first important steps in using these cookers. This process removes excess starch and impurities from the rice grains, resulting in fluffier and more delicious rice.
To rinse the rice, place it in a mesh strainer or colander and hold it under cool running water. Gently swirl the rice around with your fingers to allow the water to wash away any dirt or dust. Continue rinsing until the water runs clear, indicating that the rice is clean.
Once the rice is rinsed, it is important to let it drain for a few minutes to remove any excess water. This step is crucial as adding too much water to the cooker can result in soggy rice. To ensure the rice is properly drained, shake the strainer or colander gently to remove any remaining water from the rice grains.
Now that the rice is clean and drained, it is ready to be cooked.
Summary:
- Rinse the rice under cool running water to remove dirt and dust.
- Continue rinsing until the water runs clear.
- Let the rice drain for a few minutes to remove excess water.
- Shake the strainer or colander gently to remove any remaining water.
- The rice is now clean and ready to be cooked.
“Rinsing and draining the rice is crucial to remove excess starch and impurities, resulting in fluffier and more delicious rice.”
Adding Water And Seasoning
After rinsing and draining the rice, it’s time to prepare the microwavable rice cooker. The amount of water required depends on the type of rice being used. For every cup of long grain white rice, you will need 1 ¾ cups of water.
In addition to water, you can also add seasoning to enhance the flavor of the rice. This could include spices such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, or even bouillon cubes for a more savory taste. It’s important to note that the flavorings should be added according to personal preference.
It is recommended to follow the guidelines provided by the rice cooker’s manufacturer for water and seasoning measurements. These measurements are specific to each rice cooker and ensure the perfect consistency and flavor of the cooked rice.
Securing The Lids
Once the water and seasoning have been added to the rice cooker, it’s time to secure the lids. Most microwavable rice cookers come with two lids: an inner lid and an outer lid.
The inner lid ensures that the steam is trapped inside, allowing the rice to cook evenly. On the other hand, the outer lid provides an additional layer of insulation, preventing heat from escaping the cooker.
To properly secure the lids, align the grooves on the inner and outer lids with the corresponding ridges on the rice cooker. Press down firmly so that the lids fit snugly. This will prevent any steam from escaping during the cooking process.
Before placing the rice cooker in the microwave, ensure that the lids are securely locked in place. This will prevent any accidents or spillage while the rice is cooking.
Now that the lids are properly secured, it’s time to move on to the next step.
- Align the grooves on the inner and outer lids with the corresponding ridges on the rice cooker.
- Press down firmly to ensure a snug fit.
- Confirm that the lids are securely locked before placing the rice cooker in the microwave.
Setting The Microwave To 70 Percent Power
To achieve the best results, it is recommended to set the microwave to 70 percent power when using a microwavable rice cooker. This lower power setting allows the rice to cook slowly and evenly, resulting in perfectly cooked grains.
To set the microwave to 70 percent power, locate the power setting button on your microwave control panel. Press the button until the desired power level, which is 70 percent in this case, is displayed. This adjustment ensures that the rice is cooked at a reduced power to prevent it from boiling over or becoming overcooked.
Setting the microwave to 70 percent power is essential for achieving fluffy and fully cooked rice. It allows the heat to distribute evenly throughout the cooker, providing ideal cooking conditions.
Cooking The Rice For 13 Minutes
Once the microwave has been set to 70 percent power, it’s time to cook the rice. Cook the rice for 13 minutes, which is the recommended cooking time for most microwavable rice cookers. However, it’s important to note that cooking times may vary depending on the specific rice cooker being used and personal preferences.
During the cooking process, it is important not to open the microwave door or disturb the rice cooker. Doing so can disrupt the cooking process and result in unevenly cooked rice. Instead, allow the rice to cook undisturbed for the designated time.
After 13 minutes, the rice should be fully cooked and ready to be enjoyed. However, there is one more crucial step in the rice cooking process to ensure the best possible texture and flavor.
- Set the microwave to 70 percent power
- Cook the rice for 13 minutes in a microwavable rice cooker
- Avoid opening the microwave door or disturbing the rice cooker during cooking
- Allow the rice to cook undisturbed for the designated time
Allowing The Rice To Stand For 5 Minutes
After the rice has finished cooking in the microwave, it’s essential to let it stand for 5 minutes. Allowing the rice to stand helps to evenly distribute the moisture throughout the grains, resulting in fluffy and well-textured rice.
During this resting period, some of the residual steam is absorbed by the rice grains, helping them to plump up. The standing time also allows the rice to cool slightly, making it easier to handle and fluff with a fork.
After the 5-minute resting period, carefully remove the lids from the microwavable rice cooker. The steam may be hot, so use oven mitts or a kitchen towel to protect your hands. Fluff the rice gently with a fork to separate the grains and release any excess steam.
The rice is now ready to be served as a delicious and satisfying side dish or to be incorporated into your favorite recipes. Remember to adjust the cooking time and seasoning according to personal preferences and to promptly refrigerate any leftover rice for food safety reasons.
Now that you have mastered the art of using a microwavable rice cooker, you can enjoy quick and easy rice cooking solutions in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you use a plastic microwave rice cooker?
To utilize a plastic microwave rice cooker, begin by adding 1 cup of rice, 1 1/2 cups of water, and 1 tsp of salt into the cooker. Secure the lid and ensure the vent is open. Proceed to cook the rice in the microwave on 50% power for either 10-12 minutes for white rice or 18-20 minutes for brown rice. Once done, handle the cooker with hot pads, close the vent, and allow the rice to stand for 4-5 minutes. Finally, fluff the rice with a fork before serving.
How long do microwave rice cookers take?
Microwave rice cookers typically require a cooking time of around 12 minutes for white rice and 18 to 20 minutes for brown rice. Once the microwaving is complete, it is important to let the rice sit with the lid secured but vent open for 3 to 5 minutes. This allows the rice to further steam and become tender. After this brief waiting period, the rice can be fluffed with a fork and is ready to be enjoyed.
How long do you cook 2 cups of rice in a microwave rice cooker?
To cook 2 cups of rice in a microwave rice cooker, set the microwave timer to 13 minutes. However, if your microwave is 1,000 watts or more, it is recommended to cook the rice at 70 percent power for optimal results. The reduced power setting ensures that the rice cooks evenly and doesn’t end up being overcooked. This cooking method helps to achieve the perfect texture and consistency in the rice, providing a delicious and satisfying result.
Do you use hot or cold water in a microwave rice cooker?
To achieve optimal results when using a microwave rice cooker, it is recommended to use cold tap water instead of hot or boiling water. Using hot water can affect the cooking time, potentially leading to undesirable results. It is advisable to add salt according to personal preference, with a half teaspoon generally being sufficient for most tastes.