How to Use a Rice Cooker as a Steamer, Warmer, and More

Rice cookers are beloved for their ability to produce perfect rice, but they’re also handy appliances that can be used for much more. In this article, we’ll explore how to maximize your rice cooker’s versatility by using it as a steamer, food warmer, dessert maker, and more. Read on to discover the many possibilities of this often underutilized kitchen tool.

Steaming Food with a Rice Cooker

Steaming is a healthy cooking method that helps retain the nutrients in food while keeping them moist and flavorful. Most rice cookers come with a steaming tray or basket that allows you to steam vegetables, seafood, and even dumplings. Here’s how you can use your rice cooker as a steamer:

1. Fill the inner pot of the rice cooker with water according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. Place the steaming tray or basket on top of the pot, making sure it sits securely.
3. Add your desired food items onto the steaming tray. Make sure the items are evenly spaced to allow for proper steaming.
4. Close the lid of the rice cooker and turn it on. Set the cooking time based on the recommended steaming time for your food.
5. Once the food is steamed, carefully remove the steaming tray using oven mitts or tongs to avoid burns.

Keeping Food Warm in a Rice Cooker

Rice cookers are excellent for keeping food warm for extended periods, making them ideal for gatherings, potlucks, or when you need to keep your meal ready for later. The warming function in rice cookers helps maintain the temperature of cooked food without overcooking it. Here’s how you can use your rice cooker to keep food warm:

1. After cooking your food, switch the rice cooker to the “Keep Warm” mode.
2. Transfer the cooked food into the inner pot of the rice cooker.
3. Close the lid and allow the rice cooker to maintain the desired temperature.
4. Stir the food occasionally to ensure even heat distribution and prevent sticking.

Making Desserts in a Rice Cooker

Yes, you read that right! You can make delicious desserts using your rice cooker. From fluffy cakes to creamy puddings, your rice cooker can be a versatile tool for satisfying your sweet tooth. Here’s a simple recipe for a rice cooker dessert:

Rice Cooker Chocolate Cake

Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add the milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until well combined.
3. Grease the inner pot of your rice cooker with cooking spray or butter.
4. Pour the batter into the greased pot. If desired, sprinkle chocolate chips on top.
5. Close the lid and set the rice cooker to the “Cake” or “Bake” mode. Cook for the recommended time or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Once the cake is cooked, carefully remove the inner pot from the rice cooker and let it cool before serving.

Other Creative Uses for a Rice Cooker

Aside from the above-mentioned functions, rice cookers can be used for various other cooking tasks. Here are a few creative ways to utilize your rice cooker:

• Making oatmeal or porridge: Simply add oats or grains with water or milk to the inner pot and cook according to the instructions.
• Cooking soups or stews: Use the rice cooker to simmer your favorite soup or stew recipe. Just add the ingredients, set the cooking time, and let it do the work.
• Steaming eggs: Place eggs in the steaming tray or directly in the water of the rice cooker to achieve perfectly steamed eggs.
• Slow cooking: Some rice cookers have a slow cook function that allows you to cook tender meats or prepare dishes like chili or pulled pork.

Don’t limit your rice cooker to just cooking grains. With the right accessories and recipes, it can also steam healthy meals, keep dishes at the perfect temperature, and even bake up sweet treats. Used creatively, a rice cooker can be an incredibly useful and multifunctional appliance. So grab your manual, experiment with new techniques, and start enjoying your rice cooker’s untapped potential today.