Japanese rice cookers are a staple in many households, especially in Japan, where rice is a staple food. However, many people underestimate the versatility of these devices and limit themselves to cooking just rice. The truth is, with a little creativity, you can use your Japanese rice cooker to prepare a variety of delicious dishes beyond just plain rice.
In this blog post, we will explore some tips and tricks to help you make more than just rice in your Japanese rice cooker. We will cover a variety of recipes, from savory dishes like chicken teriyaki and steamed vegetables to sweet treats like rice pudding and even cakes. Whether you’re a busy parent or a college student looking for easy and affordable meal options, these recipes will help you make the most out of your rice cooker and impress your friends and family with your cooking skills. So, let’s get started!
Savory dishes
A. Chicken teriyaki
If you’re tired of making the same old chicken dishes, try making chicken teriyaki in your Japanese rice cooker. It’s easy to prepare and bursting with flavor. Start by marinating chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, sake, and sugar for at least an hour. Then, add the chicken and marinade to your rice cooker and let it cook. When it’s done, remove the chicken and reduce the marinade to make a thick sauce. Drizzle the sauce over the chicken and serve with rice and steamed vegetables. It’s a delicious and easy way to mix up your weekly dinner routine.
B. Steamed vegetables
Steaming vegetables is a quick and healthy way to prepare them, and using a Japanese rice cooker makes it even easier. Simply add water to the cooker, place the vegetables in a steamer basket, and set the timer. You can add seasonings or sauces to enhance the flavor. Some vegetables that work well for steaming include broccoli, carrots, and asparagus. Steamed vegetables can be served as a side dish or incorporated into other dishes like stir-fries or salads. With a Japanese rice cooker, you can have perfectly steamed vegetables in no time.
C. Curry
If you love Japanese curry, you’ll be happy to know that you can easily make it in your Japanese rice cooker! Simply add rice, water, curry powder, and your choice of protein and vegetables, and let the rice cooker do the work. The result is a rich and flavorful curry that’s perfect for a hearty meal. Plus, the rice cooker keeps the curry warm for hours, so you can enjoy it whenever you’re ready. Give this recipe a try and impress your family and friends with your cooking skills!
D. Soup
Soup is a comforting and versatile dish that can be made easily in a Japanese rice cooker. Simply add your ingredients, such as vegetables, protein, and broth, and set the cooker to the soup setting. You can also adjust the cooking time and temperature to your preference. For a hearty meal, try making a miso soup with tofu and vegetables. Or, for a creamy option, make a pumpkin soup with coconut milk. The possibilities are endless with this simple and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any season.
Sweet treats
If you think your Japanese rice cooker can only cook rice, think again! With a little bit of creativity, you can use your rice cooker to make some delicious sweet treats. Here are three desserts you can easily make in your rice cooker:
Rice Pudding
Rice pudding is a classic dessert that is loved by many. To make rice pudding in your rice cooker, simply mix together rice, milk, sugar, and any other desired ingredients like vanilla extract, cinnamon, or raisins. Then, let the rice cooker do its job and cook until the mixture is thick and creamy. Serve warm or chilled.
Cakes
Yes, you read that right. You can make cakes in your Japanese rice cooker! Start by preparing your cake batter as usual, and then pour it into the rice cooker pot. Make sure to spread the batter evenly, and then close the lid and turn on the cooker. Check the cake after about 30 minutes, and if it’s not quite done yet, keep cooking until a toothpick comes out clean. Top with frosting or fruit, and enjoy!
Steamed Buns
Steamed buns, also known as baozi, are a popular Chinese snack that can also be made in your rice cooker. Start by making the dough and filling, and then form the dough into small balls with the filling inside. Place the buns in a steamer basket, and then place the basket into the rice cooker. Add water to the pot and turn on the cooker, and let the buns steam for about 20 minutes. Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips and tricks
Japanese rice cookers are versatile and convenient kitchen appliances that can be used for more than just cooking rice. However, to ensure that your rice cooker performs at its best, proper cleaning and maintenance are crucial.
A. Proper cleaning and maintenance
Cleaning your rice cooker after each use is essential to prevent the build-up of bacteria and other harmful particles. To clean your rice cooker, first, unplug it and let it cool down completely. Then, remove the inner pot and wash it with warm soapy water. Be sure to use a non-abrasive sponge to avoid scratching the non-stick coating. Rinse the pot thoroughly and let it air dry before returning it to the rice cooker.
It’s also important to regularly clean the outside of the rice cooker. Wipe it down with a damp cloth and a mild detergent. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that may damage the surface.
In addition to proper cleaning, maintaining your rice cooker is crucial to ensure its longevity. Avoid overfilling the pot with water or ingredients, as this can cause the rice cooker to malfunction. Also, be sure to store your rice cooker in a cool, dry place when not in use.
B. Ingredient recommendations
While Japanese rice cookers are designed to cook rice perfectly every time, they can also be used to prepare a variety of other dishes. One of the keys to success is selecting the right ingredients.
When cooking grains like quinoa or bulgur, it’s important to use the correct ratio of water to grain. Generally, a ratio of 1:2 (one part grain to two parts water) is recommended. For legumes like lentils or chickpeas, it’s best to pre-soak them before cooking to reduce cooking time and ensure even cooking.
C. Cooking time and temperature adjustment
Another important aspect of using a Japanese rice cooker to prepare non-rice dishes is adjusting the cooking time and temperature. Unlike rice, which requires a specific amount of time and water to cook properly, other ingredients may need to be cooked for different lengths of time and at varying temperatures.
For example, when cooking vegetables, it’s important to avoid overcooking them, which can result in mushy or flavorless vegetables. Instead, use the steam function of your rice cooker and cook them for just a few minutes until they are tender-crisp.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, a Japanese rice cooker can be a valuable addition to any kitchen, not just for cooking rice, but for preparing a variety of other delicious dishes. By following the tips and tricks we’ve discussed, such as proper cleaning and maintenance, ingredient selection, and cooking time and temperature adjustment, you can explore the versatility of your rice cooker and create meals that are both easy and tasty.
Whether you’re a busy parent or a college student looking for affordable and convenient meal options, a Japanese rice cooker can be your go-to kitchen appliance. So don’t be afraid to experiment with new recipes and ingredients, and make the most out of your rice cooker. From savory dishes like chicken teriyaki and curry to sweet treats like rice pudding and steamed buns, the possibilities are endless!
