Glutinous rice, also known as sticky rice or sweet rice, is a popular staple in many Asian cuisines. It is commonly used to make dishes such as sushi, rice cakes, and even desserts. Traditionally, cooking glutinous rice involved soaking it overnight and then steaming it. However, if you are in a rush or don’t have access to a steamer, you can easily cook glutinous rice in the microwave. In this quick and easy guide, we will walk you through the steps to achieve perfectly cooked glutinous rice using your microwave.
Gather the Ingredients and Equipment
Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients and equipment. Here’s what you’ll need:
1. Glutinous rice: You can find glutinous rice in most Asian grocery stores or online. It has short and plump grains that are very sticky when cooked.
2. Water: You’ll need water to cook the rice. The ratio of rice to water is usually 1:1.5, but you can adjust it based on your preference for softer or firmer rice.
3. Microwave-safe bowl or dish: Make sure the bowl or dish you use is safe to be used in the microwave. It should be large enough to hold the rice and allow for some expansion as it cooks.
4. Plastic wrap or microwave-safe cover: This will help trap the steam and heat, cooking the rice evenly.
Rinse and Soak the Rice
Start by rinsing the glutinous rice under cold water to remove any excess starch. This will prevent the rice from clumping together when cooked. Rinse the rice until the water runs clear.
Next, place the rinsed rice in a microwave-safe bowl or dish. Add enough water to cover the rice completely. The ratio of rice to water is usually 1:1.5, but you can adjust it based on your preference. Soak the rice in water for at least 30 minutes. This step helps to soften the rice and ensures even cooking throughout.
Cooking the Rice in the Microwave
Once the rice has soaked for the appropriate time, it’s time to cook it in the microwave. Here’s how:
1. Drain the soaking water from the rice using a fine-mesh sieve or colander. Make sure to drain it thoroughly to avoid excess water in the rice.
2. Transfer the drained rice back to the microwave-safe bowl or dish. Add fresh water, using the desired ratio (1:1.5 or as per your preference). Make sure the water covers the rice completely.
3. Cover the bowl or dish with plastic wrap or a microwave-safe cover. This will help trap the steam and heat, cooking the rice evenly. Make sure to leave a small vent or opening to allow some steam to escape.
4. Place the bowl or dish in the microwave and cook on high power for 5 minutes. After the first 5 minutes, carefully remove the bowl and give the rice a gentle stir with a fork or chopsticks to prevent any clumping.
5. Place the bowl back in the microwave and continue cooking for another 5 minutes on high power. This additional cooking time allows the rice to fully absorb the water and become tender and sticky.
6. Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the bowl from the microwave. Be cautious as the bowl will be hot. Remove the plastic wrap or cover, and let the rice sit for a few minutes to steam and settle.
Check the Doneness of the Rice
After letting the rice sit for a few minutes, it’s time to check if it’s cooked to your desired texture. Take a fork or chopsticks and fluff the rice gently. The grains should be translucent, sticky, and evenly cooked. If the rice is still too firm, you can microwave it for another minute or two until it reaches the desired consistency.
Serving and Storing
Once your glutinous rice is perfectly cooked, it’s ready to be served as a delicious side dish, in sushi rolls, or even in desserts. You can enjoy it on its own or pair it with your favorite stir-fry or curry dish.
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Glutinous rice can be reheated in the microwave by adding a little bit of water and covering it with a microwave-safe lid. Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Conclusion
Cooking glutinous rice in the microwave is a quick and easy alternative to traditional methods. By following the simple steps outlined in this guide, you can achieve perfectly cooked and sticky glutinous rice in no time. So, the next time you’re craving this delicious Asian staple but are short on time, give the microwave method a try and enjoy a satisfying meal.