5 Easy Rice Cooker Recipes for Beginners

Keeping up with daily meals can be as much of a chore as housekeeping, but it doesn’t have to be a hassle. If you’re like me, always on the lookout for simplicity and efficiency in the kitchen, then you’ll love these easy rice cooker recipes. They’re perfect for anyone just starting out or for those who want to add some hassle-free dishes to their culinary repertoire.

1. Rice Cooker Butter Garlic Rice

There’s something about the aroma of garlic and butter that feels like a warm hug. This recipe is not only easy but also packs a punch of flavor, perfect for a cozy evening meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Jasmine rice (a fragrant long grain rice)
• 2 cups chicken broth (for an extra flavor boost)
• 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons salted butter
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

Instructions:

Start by rinsing your rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This step is crucial for removing excess starch. Add the rinsed rice, chicken broth, chopped garlic, butter, and kosher salt into your rice cooker. Give everything a good stir to distribute the flavors evenly. Set your rice cooker to the ‘white rice’ function and let it work its magic. Once done, fluff the rice with a fork to mix all the buttery, garlicky goodness evenly. Serve hot as a perfect side to steamed veggies or your protein of choice.

2. Rice Cooker Fried Rice

Who knew that making fried rice could be as easy as pressing a button? This recipe is a game-changer for your barbecue nights or when you need a quick, fulfilling meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups rice
• 2 cups beef stock
• 1 tablespoon oil (choose a flavor-infused oil for an extra zing)
• 250g bacon, cut into strips
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (like corn and peas)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce

Instructions:

Activate your rice cooker’s sauté function, if available, or just set it to ‘cook’. Add the oil, bacon, onion, and garlic, stirring frequently until the onion softens. Next, add the rice, ensuring it’s well coated in the oil and rendered bacon fat. Pour in the beef stock and mix in the frozen vegetables. Close the lid and let the rice cooker do the rest. Once cooked, stir in the soy sauce for that classic fried rice flavor. Serve immediately and watch it disappear!

3. Easy Rice Cooker Mushroom Rice

Mushroom lovers, rejoice! This mushroom rice is so creamy and full of flavor, it might just become your new favorite side dish for family dinners or special gatherings.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups long grain rice
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup (for creaminess and flavor)
• 2 cups beef bone broth (adds depth)
• 1 10 oz. can sliced mushrooms, drained
• Optional: shredded parmesan cheese, for garnish

Instructions:

Rinse the rice until the water runs clear, then place it in the rice cooker. Add the cream of mushroom soup, beef bone broth, and drained mushrooms. Stir everything together to ensure the ingredients are well combined. Set your rice cooker to the ‘white rice’ setting and start it. Once the cooking cycle is complete, let the rice sit for a few minutes, then fluff it up with a fork. Serve it with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for a touch of luxury.