How Long to Cook Rice in Steamer
Steamed rice has a distinct fluffy texture. Learn times for electric steamers and traditional bamboo steamers. Essential for sticky rice and Asian-style rice.
How long to cook rice in steamer?
White rice takes 25-30 minutes in an electric steamer after soaking 30 minutes. Sticky rice takes 25-30 minutes after soaking 4+ hours. Fill steamer with water that does not touch the rice.
Steamer Rice Cooking Times
Soaking is required for steamed rice. Times below are steaming time only, not including soak time. Use plenty of water in the base.
| Rice Type | Steam Time | Soak Time | Steamer Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| White Rice | 25-30 minutes | Soak 30 min | Electric steamer |
| Brown Rice | 40-50 minutes | Soak 1 hour | Electric steamer |
| Sticky Rice | 25-30 minutes | Soak 4+ hours | Bamboo steamer |
| Jasmine Rice | 25-30 minutes | Soak 30 min | Electric steamer |
How Long to Cook Rice in Electric Steamer?
Electric steamers take 25-30 minutes for white rice. Soak rice 30 minutes first. Fill water reservoir to max line. Place soaked rice in steamer basket. Set timer and start.
Electric steamers are convenient and consistent. Many have rice trays with smaller holes. If not, line basket with cheesecloth to prevent rice falling through.
How Long to Cook Sticky Rice in Bamboo Steamer?
Sticky rice takes 25-30 minutes in a bamboo steamer. Soak glutinous rice for at least 4 hours or overnight. Drain well. Line steamer with damp cheesecloth.
Place bamboo steamer over wok or pot of boiling water. Spread rice evenly. Cover and steam. Flip rice halfway through for even cooking. Rice is done when translucent and sticky.
How Long to Cook Brown Rice in Steamer?
Brown rice takes 40-50 minutes in a steamer. Soak for 1 hour minimum to soften the bran. Check water level in steamer base. Add more if needed during cooking.
How to Steam Rice Step by Step
- Rinse rice. Rinse until water runs clear.
- Soak rice. Cover with water. Regular rice 30 minutes. Sticky rice 4+ hours.
- Drain well. Pour off soaking water. Let rice drain 5 minutes.
- Prepare steamer. Fill base with water. Line basket with cheesecloth if needed.
- Add rice. Spread rice evenly in basket. Do not pack too tightly.
- Steam. Cover and steam 25-30 minutes. Check at 20 minutes.
- Rest and serve. Let rice rest 5 minutes before serving. Fluff gently.
Steaming Rice Tips
- Do not skip soaking. Unsoaked rice will be hard and undercooked.
- Keep water boiling. Steady steam is essential. Do not let water level get too low.
- Do not peek too often. Opening lid releases steam and adds cook time.
- Line the basket. Cheesecloth or banana leaves prevent rice from falling through.
- Spread evenly. Uneven layers cook unevenly. Keep rice no more than 2 inches deep.
Frequently Asked Questions
White rice takes 25-30 minutes in an electric steamer. Soak rice for 30 minutes first. Sticky rice takes 25-30 minutes but needs 4+ hours soaking. Steam until tender.
Sticky rice takes 25-30 minutes in a bamboo steamer. Must soak for at least 4 hours or overnight. Line steamer with cheesecloth. Steam over boiling water.
Yes, soaking is essential for steamed rice. Regular rice needs 30 minutes. Sticky rice needs 4-8 hours. Soaking allows steam to cook rice evenly.
Yes, use a colander over a pot of boiling water. Cover with a lid or foil. Or use a plate over a pot with a small rack. The key is keeping rice above water, not in it.
Steamed rice cooks by hot steam, not hot water. Grains stay more separate and less waterlogged. Traditional Asian cooking often uses steaming for better texture.
Fill steamer base with 2-3 inches of water. Water should not touch the rice. Add more water if steaming longer than 30 minutes. Check water level periodically.
Compare Rice Cooking Methods
Different methods work better for different situations. Compare cooking times and choose the best option for your needs.