5. Steam the rice |
||||
| Select an appropriate heat control according to the directions on the automatic rice cooker.
Monitor the time needed to allow the rice to [settle]. It is indispensable to allow time for the rice to settle, in addition to the cooking process, in order to obtain the necessary amount of heat to cook rice.
Cooking (or heating) time is typically 20 to 25 minutes,(1) The time needed for rice to settle is typically about 20 to 30 minutes.(2) After finished
The reasons why rice should be allowed to settle after cooking are as follows: [1] Moisture distribution in the cooker is uneven immediately after cooking. By allowing time for the rice to settle, any extra moisture on the surface of the grain is evaporated, thus evening out the moisture content of each grain. [2] Gelatinization is incomplete unless the rice is kept at a temperature higher than 98degrees Celsius, or about 210 degrees Fahrenheit, for approximately 20 minutes. The cooking process alone does not provide enough heat (a temperature over 98degrees Celsius), a condition which is compensated for by allowing time for the rice to settle. Maintain a high surrounding temperature while allowing rice to settle. When the rice is allowed to settle for too long, it loses sheen. When it cools down, it becomes sticky, making it difficult to separate individual grains from each other. |
||||
