Why a Rice Cooker Can Do More than the Name Implies
Obviously, as the name suggests, rice cookers are primarily used in restaurants where rice features heavily on the menu. However, there are many alternative uses to this piece of equipment. From preparing side dishes and main dishes to snacks and desserts, a rice cooker can be beneficial in many different ways, as demonstrated here.
Side Dishes; vegetables and dumplings
A rice cooker effectively steams produce that is placed in the internal basket. Vegetables are much healthier and tastier when they are steamed as opposed to being boiled. Generally, the standard vegetables e.g. broccoli, cauliflower, peas, carrots can be steamed to perfection in under 10 minutes with only approximately ½ cup of water. Other vegetables will require differing amounts of water and may take a little longer steaming time. Dumplings are just as easily steamed. Although the majority of people enjoy dumplings, try adding something a little extra as an alternative. Consider incorporating a flavoured dumpling into your menu e.g. chicken and mushroom dumplings.
Main Dishes; seafood
Steamed fish or a quick and simple jambalaya will all be perfectly prepared in a rice cooker. Experiment with other seafood ingredients to invent a tasty, healthy menu item.
Desserts; flans
Most people will not believe that a flan can be cooked in a rice cooker, but it can and it will taste delicious. Toy with different complimenting flavours to create something different and individual for your menu.
Snacks; wraps
The ingredients for your wraps should be prepared as usual, using the steaming rice cooker as required. The residual steam can then be used to soften and gently warm your tortilla wraps, ready for the final assembly of your delicious snack.
These ideas should help all rice cooker owners realise the true potential of their seemingly limited piece of equipment and in the process, with a little experimentation and creativity may be able to bring a whole new aspect to their menu.