foto: TikTok/@dapurucipalupi
Brilio.net - Rice is a staple food for most Indonesians and is often served with various side dishes and vegetables. However, when rice is stored too long in a rice cooker, it can become dry and crusty. This not only reduces the deliciousness of the rice, but also makes the rice cooker pan difficult to clean.
Some people try various tricks like using a dishtowel to keep the rice moist. However, there is another more practical and natural way to keep rice soft overnight. This trick was shared by TikTok user @dapurucipalupi and you can try it yourself at home.
Easy tricks to store rice so it doesn't dry out Materials Needed:
- Freshly cooked rice
- Banana leaves (can be replaced with food plastic or white rice paper)
How to Do It:
1. Cook rice as usual in a rice cooker.
2. Once cooked, do not unplug the rice cooker.
3. Stir the rice and collect it in the center of the pan using a ladle.
photo: TikTok/@dapurucipalupi
4. Place a banana leaf on top of the rice and press it down to cover the entire surface of the rice.
photo: TikTok/@dapurucipalupi
5. Leave the rice in the rice cooker on "warm" mode.
This way, the rice will stay moist and not dry out quickly, even up to 24 hours later.
photo: TikTok/@dapurucipalupi
Benefits of banana leaves for storing rice - Maintaining rice moisture: Banana leaves help reduce water evaporation, so the rice stays soft.
- Adds a distinctive aroma: Rice stored in banana leaves will have a more appetizing natural aroma.
- Inhibits bacterial growth: Banana leaves contain polyphenols which function as natural antioxidants to keep food fresh longer.
- Environmentally friendly: Compared to plastic, banana leaves are more natural and do not produce hazardous waste.
If you don't have banana leaves, you can try the following method:
- Use food plastic or white rice paper: This can be an alternative to keep the rice moist.
- Store rice in the refrigerator in an airtight container: If you want to store rice for longer (4-6 days), make sure the rice is cool before putting it in the refrigerator.
- Heat with a little water: If the rice has dried out, add a little water before heating to restore its moisture.
1. Why does the rice in the rice cooker dry out quickly even though it is closed?
Because hot steam settles on the lid of the rice cooker and drips back onto the rice, causing drying. Using banana leaves can help maintain the moisture of the rice.
2. Can we use other ingredients besides banana leaves?
Yes, you can use food plastic or white rice paper as an alternative.
3. How long can rice last in a rice cooker with this trick?
Rice can stay moist for up to 24 hours or more, depending on the condition of the rice cooker and the type of rice used.
4. Can this trick be used for cold rice?
This trick is most effective when applied immediately after the rice is cooked, as the steam from the rice helps retain moisture.
5. How do you store rice if you want to eat it a few days later?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to eat, reheat with a little water to keep the rice soft and delicious.
(brl/tin)
