Can Boiling Water and Grease Make Rice Taste Better?
Instead of using cold water to cook rice, try using boiling water. This method not only helps retain the beneficial vitamin B found in rice, but it also speeds up the cooking process, saving you time during the holidays.
Additionally, adding a few drops of animal fat or oil to the rice cooker will enhance the aroma and make the rice fluffy without burning the bottom of the pot.
Soak the Rice Before Cooking
After rinsing the rice, soak it in just enough water for the type of rice you are using. Let it soak for at least 15-30 minutes before turning on the cooker. This technique works for all types of rice and will make the rice cook faster, resulting in fluffy and nutritious rice.
Cooking Rice with Ice Cubes
This method is inspired by Japanese rice cooking techniques and will give you fragrant and sticky rice. After adding water to the pot, drop in 2-3 ice cubes and let them sit for about 15 minutes before starting to cook. The ice cubes slow down the rice’s water absorption, increasing its stickiness and amino acid content while preventing enzymes from breaking down its natural sweetness.
You can also add a spoonful of honey, a pinch of salt, and a few drops of sesame oil (or olive oil) to enhance the rice’s flavor and make it even fluffier and more fragrant.
Quick Fix for Burnt Rice
If your rice is burnt, try this: place a cold water-filled bowl in the center of the pot, making sure the rim is level with the rice. Cover and simmer over low heat for a few minutes. Alternatively, submerge the rice cooker in a basin of cold water about 2 inches deep for 3 minutes to reduce the burnt smell.
If you have fresh onions in your fridge, add a few sprigs to the burnt rice, cover, and wait a few minutes. The strong onion scent will reduce the burnt aroma. You can also use bread crusts, which will absorb the burnt smell in about 5 minutes.
For outdoor picnics, place a burning piece of charcoal in a bowl and set it in the center of the rice cooker. Cover tightly for 10 minutes, and the charcoal will absorb the burnt smell.