Can I make sushi rice in the microwave?
Yes, you can! Cooking rice in an Anyday dish is not only easy but also a better experience. Before cooking, the rice should rinsed in cold water until the water runs clear to remove as much excess starch as possible. When using the microwave, rice gets steamed slowly, just like in an electric rice cooker, but without the need to pull out another appliance on your countertop. The Anyday and the microwave make the dream team for cooking rice. Check out our recipes for both white and brown rice too!
Why do we use a lower power level to cook the rice?
Using a lower power level helps prevent the rice from overcooking or becoming too mushy. It allows for a gentler cooking process, ensuring the rice cooks evenly and maintains its desired texture
Why do I need to rinse the rice? How many times should I rinse it?
Rinsing rice is essential to remove excess starch, which can cause the grains to become sticky and clump together during cooking. Thoroughly rinsing the rice helps it cook up light and fluffy, with each grain staying perfectly separate. Use the Anyday Strainer to make the process quick and easy. Using an Anyday Strainer, rinse and drain the rice repeatedly until the water runs clear—this usually takes about 3 to 4 rinses. Properly rinsing the rice also improves its texture and overall quality in the finished dish.
Why do we use short-grain rice for sushi rice?
Short-grain rice, also known as sushi rice, is preferred for sushi because of its sticky texture, which helps the rice hold together when rolled or shaped into sushi.
Why do we let the rice rest after cooking before seasoning?
Allowing the rice to rest with the lid on after cooking helps it finish steaming, resulting in a fluffy and evenly cooked texture. This resting period also allows the rice to cool slightly, making it easier to handle when seasoning with vinegar mixture.
Why is the rice seasoned after cooking?
Seasoning the rice after cooking with a mixture of rice vinegar, sugar, and salt enhances its flavor and texture. The vinegar adds a tangy balance, while sugar firms up the grains and gives them a glossy appearance. Salt enhances flavor and regulates moisture, ensuring the rice maintains a desirable texture. This step is crucial for achieving delicious and authentic sushi rice.
Can I save or freeze leftover sushi rice?
Yes, leftover sushi rice can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days or frozen for longer-term storage. Be sure to cool the rice completely before storing it in the Anyday dish with the lid on. To properly freeze, place the cooked and now cold rice in the Anytime Freezer Trays and save for up to 3 months.
What's the best way to reheat leftover sushi rice?
To reheat sushi rice, sprinkle a little water over the rice and cover it with the Anyday lid in vented position. Microwave in short intervals, fluffing the rice with a fork until heated through. If the rice is frozen, just add the pucks into the Anyday dish and heat for about 1 minute per puck until heated through.
