Cooking rice can be tricky, as getting the perfect tender, fluffy rice requires precision with water measurements and cook times. Using a rice cooker takes the guesswork out of cooking rice, but not everyone has one of those handy appliances. However, if you have an Oster vegetable steamer, you can use that to cook rice to perfection every time.
An Oster vegetable steamer uses steam to cook vegetables and other foods. This moist heating method is ideal for cooking rice, as it prevents the rice from drying out or getting too wet. With just a few tips on water ratios and cook times, you can make restaurant-quality rice at home using your Oster steamer.
Benefits of Cooking Rice in an Oster Steamer
Here are some of the benefits of using your Oster steamer to cook rice:
- Perfectly cooked rice every time – The steaming method allows the rice to cook evenly and prevents burning or undercooking.
- No sticking or burning on the bottom – The rice cooks suspended over water in the steamer so there is no direct contact with the bottom of the pot.
- Fluffy, tender grains – Steaming allows the rice to absorb the proper amount of water as it cooks, resulting in light and fluffy rice.
- Versatile – Can cook all types of rice including white, brown, basmati, jasmine and more.
- Hands-off cooking – Once the rice is in the steamer, no stirring or checking is required during cooking.
- Makes extra rice for meals prepping – The large capacity fits up to 6 cups of uncooked rice.
Steaming rice in the Oster is quick and easy, but there are a few tricks to ensuring perfect results every time.
Choosing the Right Water to Rice Ratio
The key to cooking rice is using the proper amount of water. Here are the basic water to rice ratios for different types of rice when cooking in the Oster steamer:
White Rice
- Long grain white rice – 1 3/4 cups water to 1 cup rice
- Medium grain white rice – 1 1/2 cups water to 1 cup rice
- Short grain white rice – 1 1/4 cups water to 1 cup rice
Brown Rice
- Long grain brown rice – 2 cups water to 1 cup rice
- Medium grain brown rice – 1 3/4 cups water to 1 cup rice
- Short grain brown rice – 1 1/2 cups water to 1 cup rice
Aromatic Rices
- Basmati or jasmine rice – 1 1/4 cups water to 1 cup rice
- Sticky or glutinous rice – 1 cup water to 1 cup rice
These ratios will result in perfectly cooked rice with the variety you choose. The water amounts may need slight adjusting based on altitude and climate.
Cook Time
Cook times will vary slightly depending on the amount of rice you are cooking. Here are general cook times to follow:
- 2 cups uncooked rice: 18-22 minutes
- 4 cups uncooked rice: 22-25 minutes
- 6 cups uncooked rice: 25-30 minutes
For brown rice, increase cook times by 10 minutes. You may also need to experiment to find the ideal cook time for the type of rice you are using.
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these simple steps for foolproof rice cooking in the Oster steamer:
- Rinse the rice – Place rice in a mesh strainer and rinse under running water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch for fluffier rice.
- Combine rice and water – Place rinsed rice and appropriate amount of water in the steaming bowl based on measurements above.
- Insert steaming bowl into base – Place steaming bowl into the Oster steamer base. Make sure it is seated properly.
- Turn on steamer and set time – Put the lid on the steamer and set the cook time based on the chart above. Press start and allow rice to steam until timer goes off.
- Fluff and serve – When rice is done, remove steaming bowl from base using oven mitts. Fluff rice with a fork and serve!
It’s that simple to make restaurant-worthy rice at home with your Oster steamer. No rice cooker necessary!
Tips for Perfect Oster Steamer Rice
Follow these tips for the best results every time you make rice in your Oster:
- Use fresh, high-quality rice – Old, stale rice will not steam up properly. Invest in good rice from the grocery store.
- Rinse rice thoroughly – This prevents mushy or gooey rice by washing away excess starch.
- Use a timer – Set a timer matched to the cook time recommendations so rice does not overcook.
- Resist the urge to open the lid – Opening the steamer during cooking will disrupt the steaming process.
- Fluff immediately – Use a fork to fluff up the cooked rice to separate the grains before serving.
- Adjust water as needed – The water ratios are a starting point and may need tweaking based on rice variety and altitude.
Following these tips will ensure your rice turns out perfectly cooked every time you use your Oster steamer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about cooking rice in the Oster steamer:
What size Oster steamer should I use to cook rice?
The 3-quart or larger size Oster steamer is best for cooking rice. The smaller 2-quart size may not allow rice to cook evenly.
Can I cook brown rice in my Oster steamer?
Yes, an Oster steamer can cook any variety of rice including brown rice. Just follow the timing instructions provided above. Add 10 minutes to the cook time for brown rice.
Do I need to adjust the water for cooking rice at high altitudes?
You may need slightly less water at higher altitudes above 3000 feet. Try reducing the measured water by 2-3 tablespoons and adjusting from there.
Should I stir the rice at all during steaming?
No, stirring is not necessary and may disrupt even cooking. Rice should be left undisturbed during the steaming time.
Can I cook rice directly in the steamer base without the bowl?
No, the steaming bowl must be used when cooking rice. The bowl suspends the rice above the water for ideal steaming.
Troubleshooting Rice Cooking Problems
If your rice doesn’t turn out right using the Oster steamer, here are some common problems and solutions:
| Problem | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Mushy, sticky rice | Too much water | Reduce water by 2-3 tablespoons |
| Undercooked, hard rice | Not enough water | Increase water by 2-3 tablespoons |
| Burnt, crispy rice | Steaming time too long | Reduce cook time by 5 minutes |
| Dry, separate grains | Insufficient steaming | Increase cook time by 5 minutes |
Adjusting the water and cook times should help fix any issues with your steamed rice.
Tips for Storing Leftover Rice
Here are some storage tips for leftover steamed rice:
- Allow rice to cool completely before storage.
- Store rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Use leftover rice within 3-5 days for best quality.
- Add a damp paper towel to the container to keep rice moist.
- To reheat, add a little water and microwave until hot.
With proper storage, leftover steamed rice can be enjoyed all week long in other dishes!
Delicious Rice Recipes for the Oster Steamer
Your Oster steamer isn’t limited to just plain rice. Here are some delicious rice dishes you can make in the steamer:
Coconut Rice
Ingredients:
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/4 cup toasted coconut flakes
Directions:
- Combine rice, coconut milk, salt and sugar in steaming bowl.
- Steam for 20-25 minutes until liquid is absorbed.
- Stir in coconut flakes.
Spanish Rice
Ingredients:
- 1 cup long grain rice
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 small tomato, diced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Saute onion, tomato and garlic until softened.
- Add remaining ingredients to steaming bowl with vegetable mixture.
- Steam for 20 minutes until liquid is absorbed.
Get creative with ingredients like vegetables, beans, meats and spices to make all kinds of flavorful rice dishes in your Oster steamer!
Conclusion
Cooking rice on the stovetop can be tricky, but using an Oster vegetable steamer provides foolproof results every time. With the proper rice to water ratios and steam times, you can enjoy fluffy, flavorful rice for any recipe. The steaming method prevents burnt or mushy rice so you can feel confident making rice for meals, side dishes, rice bowls and more. Your Oster steamer is also great for flavorful rice recipes beyond just plain white or brown rice. Enjoy restaurant-worthy rice at home with your Oster steamer!
