Steamed rice is a beloved staple in many cuisines around the world. It is a simple yet versatile dish that serves as the perfect accompaniment to a variety of main courses or can be enjoyed on its own. The steaming method allows the rice grains to cook evenly, resulting in fluffy, separate grains bursting with flavour.
History
The technique of steaming rice has been practiced for centuries, with its origins rooted in ancient China. Rice cultivation and consumption have a long and rich history in Chinese culture, making steaming rice a common cooking method in households and communal meals.
Ingredients
To prepare steamed rice, you will need the following ingredients:
- 200 grams of Sela rice
- 2 cups of water
- 1 teaspoon of cooking oil
- Salt to taste
Stove Method
- Rinse the rice: Begin by placing the Sela rice in a sieve or colander and rinsing it under cold water until the water runs clear. This step helps remove excess starch from the rice, resulting in fluffier grains.
- Soak the rice: Transfer the rinsed rice to a bowl and add enough water to completely submerge it. Allow the rice to soak for approximately 30 minutes.
- Prepare the steamer: Fill a pot with water and bring it to a boil. Place a steamer basket or insert on top of the pot, ensuring that the water level is below the bottom of the basket.
- Drain the soaked rice: After 30 minutes of soaking, drain the water from the rice using the sieve or colander.
- Add oil and salt: In a separate bowl, combine the drained rice with 1 teaspoon of cooking oil and salt according to your taste preferences.
- Steam the rice: Place the rice in the steamer basket, cover with a lid, and reduce the heat to low. Allow the rice to steam for approximately 15-20 minutes or until it is tender and fully cooked.
- Â Fluff the rice: Once the rice is cooked, remove it from the steamer and let it rest for a few minutes. Use a fork or a rice paddle to gently fluff the rice, separating the grains for a light and airy texture.
Oven Method
- Rinse the rice: Begin by placing the Sela rice in a sieve or colander and rinsing it under cold water until the water runs clear.
- Soak the rice: Transfer the rinsed rice to a bowl and add enough water to completely submerge it. Allow the rice to soak for approximately 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Drain the soaked rice: After 30 minutes of soaking, drain the water from the rice using the sieve or colander.
- Add oil and salt: In a separate bowl, combine the drained rice with 1 teaspoon of cooking oil and salt according to your taste preferences.
- Transfer to an oven-safe dish: Transfer the rice to an oven-safe dish and add the 2 cups of water. Cover the dish tightly with aluminium foil or a lid.
- Bake in the oven: Place the covered dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25-30 minutes or until the rice is fully cooked.
- Fluff the rice: Once the rice is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Use a fork or a rice paddle to gently fluff the rice, separating the grains for light and airy texture.
Serving Tips
- Pair with Asian dishes.
- Create rice bowls with toppings and sauces.
- Serve with stews and flavourful sauces.
- Enjoy with grilled or roasted meats.
- Make rice balls or sushi rolls.
- Add to soups or broths for texture.
- Serve with grilled vegetables.
- Transform into fried rice.
- These serving tips will help you maximize the versatility of steamed rice for a range of delicious and satisfying meals.
FAQs
Q: Can I use other types of rice for steaming?
A: Absolutely! While Sela rice is commonly used, you can also opt for other varieties such as Basmati or Jasmine rice. Adjust the cooking time and water ratio accordingly.
Q: Is it necessary to soak the rice before steaming?
A: Soaking the rice is not mandatory but highly recommended. It helps in achieving fluffier and evenly cooked rice by allowing the grains to absorb moisture.
Q: Can I incorporate spices or herbs into the steamed rice?
A: Certainly! You can elevate the flavour of your steamed rice by adding spices, herbs, or aromatics such as bay leaves, cardamom pods, or saffron strands while cooking.
Nutritional value
| Ingredient | Quantity | Energy (kcal) | Protein (g) | Fat (g) | Carbohydrate (g) | Fiber (g) | Sodium (mg) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sela Rice | 200g | 728 | 12.8 | 1.2 | 159 | 1.4 | 1 |
| Water | 2 cups | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Cooking Oil | 1 teaspoon | 40 | 0 | 4.5 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Salt | To taste | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Total | 768 | 12.8 | 5.7 | 159 | 1.4 | 1 |
Please note that the nutritional value of this recipe may vary based on the specific brands and quantities of ingredients used. If you require precise nutritional information, it’s best to calculate it using a food nutrition calculator based on the brands and measurements you used.
Conclusion
Steamed rice, with its fluffy and tender texture, is a versatile and satisfying dish enjoyed across various cultures. Whether prepared on the stove or in the oven, the steaming method ensures perfectly cooked rice grains that enhance any meal. Embrace the simplicity and deliciousness of steamed rice in your next culinary creation!