Vegetables may be steamed with rice, or separately.
Rice and vegetables are a natural combination, an infinitely variable side dish to complement any meal. Rice alone offers a world of choices. Consider the differences in texture between meltingly tender Arborio, light and dry basmati or chewy long grain brown rice. Some, like Thai jasmine rice or good well-aged basmati, have a distinctive aroma. Then there are the vegetables, which a thoughtful cook can vary in any number of ways for flavor, color or texture. Since rice is usually steamed, and vegetables are at their most nutritious when steamed, it often makes sense to steam them together.
Instructions
1. Heat the butter or oil, if using, in the saucepan. When the butter has finished foaming or the oil is rippling, add the rice to the pan and swirl it until the rice is evenly coated. Stir for 2 minutes, toasting the rice lightly but not allowing it to brown. This optional step makes the rice lighter and fluffier. Otherwise, proceed as follows.
2. Place the rice in the saucepan, with the prepared vegetables. Add an appropriate quantity of water or broth, and season to taste with salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then cover and reduce heat.
3. Simmer until the rice has absorbed all visible moisture. Remove the lid, and allow the rice to sit for at least 5 minutes. This allows steam to escape and the rice to cool slightly, reducing the likelihood of it "mushing" when served.
4. Fluff the mixed rice and vegetables with a fork, taking care not to break up the pieces of vegetable. Serve immediately as a side dish.
5. Place vegetables in a multi-tier food steamer, if preferred, with the rice in the appropriate insert. Prepare the steamer as directed by the manufacturer, and steam until the rice is tender and the vegetables are fully cooked. Combine, or serve separately.
6. Place the rice in the bottom of a rice cooker, if preferred, and add the correct amount of broth or water. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Place the vegetable steamer insert over the rice, and fill with prepared vegetables. Cover, and press the rice cooker's start button. When the cycle is complete, remove the lid and allow the rice to rest for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork, and serve with the vegetables.
Tags: until rice, allow rice, Place rice, prepared vegetables, rice cooker, salt pepper