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Rice cookers aren't just for cooking rice. Like microwaves and other appliances, most rice cooker brands include a steam rack with it. Using a rice cooker as a steamer may take a longer time than the stove top method, but it does alleviate "kitchen traffic" by opening more space while cooking.
Steps
Preparing the Broccoli
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1Wash them. Under running water, rinse them to ensure any dirt particles are off.
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2Chop the broccoli into florets. You will want individual florets, as if you are serving it right away and fit into the rice cooker appropriately.
- Cut off the stalk (or bottom) of the broccoli.
- Cut each floret into slices.
Steaming the Broccoli
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1Add the water. Add about 1/4 to 1/3 cup of water into the rice cooker. Insert the steam rack as well.
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2Add the broccoli florets. You will want to stack them on the steam rack, about 2/3 full. Be sure that nothing is underneath it, or else they might get boiled.
- You can always add the bigger/thicker pieces on the bottom and smaller/thinner pieces at the top.
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3Steam the broccoli. Refer to your manual for the appropriate cooking times; the average time amount is 5 minutes. Place the lid on, turn the rice cooker on, and manually time it. Set the timer on at the same time you push the rice cooker on.
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4Turn the rice cooker off and unplug it. Leaving the appliance on a "warm" setting will still continue to cook the food.
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5Drain the broccoli and use running cold water on them. This stops all of the cooking process.
Serving or Storing the Broccoli
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1Use it immediately. Have them as a steamed side dish, in a salad, or by themselves.
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2Freeze the broccoli. The freezing process prolongs the life of food. The quality of broccoli are retained for 12 months when frozen.
- Spread the broccoli florets out on a baking sheet, so that they don't touch each other.
- Flash freeze them for about an hour or two.
- Add them to an airtight container or resealable freezer bag with the date of when you steamed them.
About This Article
To steam broccoli in a rice cooker, start by rinsing the broccoli under clean, cool water. Using a sharp kitchen knife, remove the stems and cut the heads of broccoli into florets. Then, slice the florets into smaller pieces. This will help your broccoli cook faster and more evenly. Next, add about 1/4 to 1/3 cup of water to the rice cooker and set a colander or steam rack inside. Place the broccoli florets in the colander or on top of the rack until the rice cooker is about 2/3 full. Turn the rice cooker on and steam the broccoli for about 5 minutes, or until it’s tender. Switch off the rice cooker and unplug it, then carefully remove the broccoli pieces with tongs or a slotted spoon and put them in a strainer. Rinse them with cool water to keep them from continuing to cook. For tips on how to serve or store your steamed broccoli, read on!
