Microwave Rice Cookers

When it comes to kitchen appliances, there is very little in the way of one-size-fits-all solutions to approaching jobs with increased levels of convenience. As no two kitchen are the same in either shape, design or amenities, it is often essential for manufacturers to think outside the box and create products which can be used on and in cooking appliances across the board. Egg poachers, toasters, bacon crispers, pressure cookers and so on all exist for conventional ovens, gas burners, halogen toasters ovens and microwaves alike.

Versatility is indeed the key to appealing to a wider market and the rice cooker is certainly no exception to the rule. While traditional rice cookers utilize a stove-top cooking method, modern alternatives exist as freestanding self-contained units which are usually electrically powered. However, how to adapt such a product to a kitchen which has neither a cooking hob nor space for even a freestanding, small rice cooker.

Rice

Microwave rice cookers have been designed with 100% convenience and ease of use in mind. Such items generally consist of three parts, which include an outer bowl, fitted lid which allows the release of steam and a separate inner bowl with a base featuring fine perforations. Some models come as a single overall unit with a hinged lid featuring an integral steam vent.

Uncooked rice is measured and placed within the inner bowl, following a thorough washing to remove any excess external starch or the presence of bran fibers. Certain types of rice such as basmati rice and Thai jasmine do not require any washing, though the majority of other types generally benefit from a good rinse. There are few that realize the importance of washing, along with the importance of avoiding over-washing. While thoroughly rinsing is imperative to remove harmful or undesirable elements, too much washing is liable to have a negative effective on the nutrients and vitamins the rice contains.

The next step involves placing the inner bowl inside the outer bowl, to which a small amount of water is added to a point where the rice is just covered. The specially designed lid is then fitted an sealed and the whole unit is microwaved on full power for 8 to 15 minutes, or however long is recommended by the manufacturer's instructions. The cooking time can also be affected by the type of rice being cooked, therefore should also be mentioned within the guidelines of the product instructions.

The rice is cooked by a process which sees the water gradually boil away, steaming the grains of rice as it does so, acting as a rice cooker steamer. Microwave rice cooking is especially good for long grain rice and other such types which contain comparatively little starch which is released during the cooking process. While microwave rice cookers are generally incredibly safe and efficient products for the cooking of rice, their operation which involves the removal of water and lack of automation makes them especially prone to burning rice if not used carefully and accurately.

It is possible to add more water during the cooking process, though the potential for burn risks means such should only be done with extreme care and caution in accordance with manufacturer's guidelines and reading of the rice cooker instructions.

Microwave Rice Cookers

Along with her various interests that include, hiking, camping, mountain biking, and cooking, Debbie also finds time to create product reviews. Check out her latest website on rice cooker reviews and learn how today's cutting edge Zojirushi rice cooker will offer your family scrumptious, fine dining quality rice anytime.

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