Slow Cooker Brown Rice: A Simple and Delicious Side Dish
Are you looking for a tasty and nutritious side dish? Look no further than slow cooker brown rice. This fluffy and affordable grain is a favorite among many. In this article, we will share tips on how to achieve a perfectly tender dish by cooking brown rice in a slow cooker.
The Benefits of Brown Rice
Compared to its white counterpart, brown rice is more nutritious and offers a variety of flavors. Enhance the taste by using broth instead of water. Adding a touch of butter and salt can elevate the dish even further. If you’re feeling experimental, try making brown rice with chicken and vegetables, or toss it with some diced meat and vegetables for a delightful stir-fry.
The Delight of Slow Cooking
First, let’s talk about the wonders of slow cooking. It’s a fantastic method that brings out the flavors of different ingredients. There are various types of slow cookers available, each with its own benefits. Whether you prefer a programmable one for convenience or a smaller one for appetizers, slow cookers can simplify your cooking experience.
Perfecting Slow Cooker Brown Rice
While grains are typically best made in a pressure cooker or stovetop, we have discovered the secret to achieving the perfect texture for brown rice in a slow cooker. But before we delve into the process, let’s clarify that pearl couscous is better suited for other cooking methods.
To ensure your brown rice is bursting with flavor, we recommend using broth instead of water. This is especially important when serving it to kids who might not appreciate it solely for its health benefits. You can add a touch of butter, salt, and pepper to further enhance the taste.
How to Make Brown Rice in a Slow Cooker
Here’s a simple and foolproof method for making brown rice in a slow cooker:
- Start by setting your slow cooker to the high setting and melting the butter.
- Rinse 2 cups of brown rice under running water using a strainer, then shake off the excess water.
- Pour the rinsed rice into the slow cooker, stirring it with the melted butter. Let it sit for about 10 minutes.
- Add broth and salt to the pot, stirring well.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on high heat for approximately 2.5 hours.
- Once the rice is cooked, use a fork or large spoon to fluff it. For an extra touch, you can sprinkle fresh parsley on top before serving.
Adding Beans for a Heartier Dish
If you’re looking to make your slow cooker brown rice even heartier, try adding a can of drained and rinsed black beans. Increase the amount of water by 1/4 cup to compensate for the beans absorbing some of the liquid. The result will resemble a delicious bowl of red beans and rice, perfect for a filling meal.
Pairing Options and Leftover Rice
For a complete gluten-free meal, consider serving your brown rice alongside glazed Crockpot carrots. Baked potatoes also turn out perfectly fluffy in a slow cooker and can stay warm for hours when you have guests over.
As for leftovers, reheating cooked rice can be a bit tricky. While technically you can save and reheat it, the texture may suffer. For the best results, add moisture to the rice when reheating. Butter works wonders in keeping it moist and flavorful. Simply place about 1 cup of rice in the microwave with 1 tablespoon of butter on top. Microwave for around 45 seconds, toss to moisten, and enjoy!
To explore more delicious recipes and culinary inspiration, visit BDK Restaurant.
