Best food steamers according to redditors

I usually steam on this bad boi but I can´t speak for the guys in the video

shh bby its ok

For rice, the rice cooker removes even the need to set a timer. You dump in water and rice, push a button, and it will tell you when the rice is done. The rice will be perfect every time. And it will keep the rice warm (without re-cooking it) for as long as you need. Plus you can be cooking rice, and use your microwave for other parts of the meal.

Moving beyond rice, they also work as a steamer. You can even cook rice and steam vegetables/dumplings/etc at the same time.

I have this one - $40 shipped from Amazon.

If you have at least a microwave in your barracks, you can do a lot with just that. I have this "Microwave Rice Cooker" that I got at the nex which was basically a bowl with feet and layered lids to trap steam. It makes rice, pasta, hard boiled eggs etc - basically anything you can do with a hot pot of water. I still use it even now that I'm out of barracks if I'm in a hurry because it's faster than cooking on the stovetop. $12 on Amazon.

I don't think anyone's said this yet, but when you have a chance, I'd spring for a slow cooker. Someone also mentioned a rice cooker. If you have these two things, you can make endless meals. You can cook any kind of meat (I think, I've yet to encounter one I can't) by pretty much covering it in a liquid/sauce and leaving it there on low for 6-8 hours. A lot of recipes involve putting in a meat or legume, throwing a few cans of things in, and you get out some sort of chili. The meat's always done. Also, you can make cheaper cuts of meat taste better.

And the rice cooker, as someone said, is completely idiotproof. I like the 6-cup Aroma rice cookers, and they double as fresh veggie steamers. All you do is throw rice and water in the pot and it does the rest. Add a tiny bit of oil if you have problems with the rice sticking.

You should never keep anything warm for 3 days straight, that just sounds like a breeding ground for bad tiny things.

Just refrigerate the leftovers in an airtight container and when you wanna use it, microwave at around 80% w/ a wet paper towel covering it until it is hot and it'll come out moist & steamy! I do this every single time.

I bought the Aroma Rice Cooker from Costco. I believe it was around $29.99 but looking on amazon, it's this price: http://www.amazon.com/Aroma-Cooker-Steamer-Sensor-Technology/dp/B003Z2LK68

It is a rice cooker, steamer and a slow cooker all in one and I have not had a bad experience with it yet! Cleaning is SUPER easy. The bowl itself seems like it could take a scratch really easily, so only use the provided plastic scoop for inside and clean gently. Don't leave anything on there for a long time to burn as this is what causes the nonstick-ness of the bottom to wear away and cause rice cookers to start burning the bottom of whatever you are making.

I don't know about yogurt, sorry!

Portable steamer like this one: https://www.amazon.com/Pyle-PKEC12-Vegetable-Adjustable-Transparent/dp/B019FFH4ZE

Note I just picked the first one that I found.

Fish, eggs, veggies, etc.

I find them sometimes at TJ Maxx for $19.99.

Keep eggs in the mini fridge and make 6 of them in the morning before heading out. Can toss some veggies and individual servings of fish in there at night. Super easy, cuts your costs 40-60% from prepared foods with hidden carbs.

I used one for 3 weeks on a sailboat with a tiny fridge packed with fresh veggies and fish and shrimp and eggs. Keep a bunch of different herb shakers handy for different flavoring. Never get bored.

THIS is the pot that I mentioned in my previous comment.

Do you need more than 400 degrees for your tonkotsu broth? No open flames, and a very versatile appliance.

Get a few microwave cookers like

https://www.amazon.com/Sistema-Microwave-Collection-Rice-Cooker/dp/B00BTIVNT4

and

https://www.amazon.com/Hot-Pasta-Boat-Versatile-Effortless/dp/B010ARBTAW

I'd get at least 2 so you can make 2 things concurrently without washing anything.

Get something like an insulated lunch bag and meal prep containers. These two should fit together more or less, I just roughly checked to make sure the containers were smaller than the bag

https://www.amazon.com/Srise-Lunch-Insulated-Women-Adults%EF%BC%88Grey%EF%BC%89/dp/B075QZFQRW

9.45Lx5.5Wx9.45H inch

https://www.amazon.com/Heim-Concept-Leak-Resistant-Microwavable-Convenience/dp/B0735M5GT8

7 x 4 x 2 inches

Then you basically just need access to a grocery store and a cutting board and knife.

I'd eat things like rice + beans + steamed vegetables with sauce or potatoes + mushrooms + spinach or whole wheat pasta with vegetables and sweet potatoes. Put a sauce on these to switch it up day to day.

Premixed spices + canned tomato sauce goes a long way to flavor food. Mix and microwave then top.

Curry powder + tomato sauce/salsa = Indian
Taco powder + tomato sauce/salsa = Mexican
Italian seasoning + tomato sauce = Italian

Hummus is easy to make with canned chickpeas and a fork to mash. Add water as you mash to make it creamier. You really don't need a blender. Blenders didn't even exist in the deserts of the ancient near east. Add in some cumin, corriander, turmeric and cardamom and a spoon of peanut butter. Put this on bread with tomatoes and cucumbers. That is my favorite sandwich.

Hey, you might one to consider one of these microwave steamers.

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Sistema-Microwave-Rice-Steamer-Clear/dp/B00BTIVNT4

I used it when I was staying in university accommodation because we weren't allowed to bring in our own appliances. It takes about 15 minutes in the microwave to cook rice (although it depends on the type of rice being cooked), and so far I've cooked short grain, Jasmine, Basmati and Japanese rice with this and they turned out well.

buy a steamer since it shouldn't break ANY school dorm rules at all, (and maybe an electric kettle like this for things like tea or whatever.)

Then, just every few days, pick up healthy meals at a cheaper place, say Aldi. (Aldi has frequently been cheaper than Walmart or Costco per oz. Just figure out when they get their shipments, though, because produce is only good there like twice a week) and just steam your meals. Buy some spices to make it yummy, and if you get the electric kettle you can heat water or milk to makes sauces.

The only thing that is difficult to do with a steamer is red meat. Usually to cook meat via steam you need a pressure cooker. That said, though, if you cut it into small pieces it can work. That would take some messing around with. I'm assuming your dorm has a microwave somewhere too and maybe a community toaster?

You can make lots of things in the steamer, including some not-quite-so-healthy foods like many of the Asian style of appetizer (dumpling, pork bun, etc).

There's a chance you could get a mini fridge with a larger freezer portion, but unfortunately until that happens with my method you'd have to buy in small portions and go shopping once every 4 days or so too keep the food guaranteed fresh.

Here's one that's $21 with 4 stars from over 1000 reviews.

Ich koche in der Hauptsache diese beiden Gerichte:

• Einfaches indisches Dal
  
• nepalesisches Fenchelgericht
  
  Für beide Rezepte brauche ich ca 20 bis 30 Minuten, bis es servierfertig auf dem Teller ist.
  
  Den Reis dazu koche ich in so einem Gerät.
  
  Das Gerichte packe ich mir dann in Dosen für drei bis vier Tage dann auf der Arbeit. Den Reis koche ich mindestens jeden zweiten Tag frisch.

How to cook rice and beans: Throw 1 cup of rice, 2 cups water, beans and veggies in microwave steamer, add salt, cook for 12 minutes. Done, Serve with Sriracha sauce

Our steamer is probably the appliance that gets used the most, outside of the stove itself. We have something similar to this. Yeah, you can steam on a stovetop, but I feel the steamer has a bunch of advantages:

• You can "set it and forget it." I know it takes about 12 minutes to steam broccoli, for example. So, I can load the steamer up and have it ready to go. When I'm about 12 minutes from wrapping up all my other cooking, I turn it on. I don't have to worry about it from then on. It cooks, and when it finishes, turns itself off. It even periodically cycles on to keep the food warm after it finishes cooking. One less thing to think about.
  
  
• It's also great for making large batches of hard/soft boiled eggs.
  
  
• It takes the place of a rice cooker for us. It does take longer to cook than a dedicated rice cooker (about an hour for brown rice). But once you've gotten into the habit of starting the rice as the first step in dinner prep, you're pretty much good to go. Personally, I had mixed results with dedicated rice cookers... I'd often get scorched rice at the bottom of the pot. With the steamer, you can't burn the rice.
  
  
• The steamer is more efficient. It doesn't heat up the kitchen as much as a pot filled with boiling water. Which is good during the summer.
  
  
• I find it much more pleasant to use. With a traditional pot-based steamer, you are often adding or removing stuff from a steaming pot of boiling water, running the risk of burning yourself. With the steamer, you usually aren't messing with the food as it is in the steamer. You just set it up and then start it. And even when I need to mess with something (like adding a second steamer basket for food that doesn't need to cook as long) I am just handling the plastic steamer baskets... the handles don't get too hot to touch.
  
  The downside is, of course, it takes up more room than a folding steamer. Even so, I think it's worth it.

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Sistema-Microwave-Rice-Steamer-Clear/dp/B00BTIVNT4/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1452044720&sr=8-1&keywords=sistema+rice+steamer

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Sistema-Microwave-Steamer-Container-Removable/dp/B005D6XYGS/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1452044762&sr=8-1&keywords=sistema+vegetable+steamer

The above two items have made my life so much simpler - rice and quinoa can be done in the first, and all vegetables (including sweet potatoes) in the second. Add some canned bean/lentil varieties, tofu etc. and you have complete, healthy meals.

Microwave rice cooker. I dont know how I lived with out one. Start cooking the rice first then begin cooking the protein. I can usually bang dinner out in the 15min'ish it takes to cook the rice.

http://www.amazon.com/Sistema-1110-Rice-Steamer-litre/dp/B00BTIVNT4/ref=pd_sbs_k_7?ie=UTF8&refRID=05J4WJVHC4T8ABCVVHF9

They do sort of make things like this. I have this contraption. I only really use it as a deep fryer, but if you set it to a low temp, it could be used as a crock pot just fine. There's a lot of different "multi-cooker" type things on the market these days.

This one is $24, has great reviews, and we've owned one and fried with it for 2 years. Works great! Temp control from 200-400F. The only downside is that the oil needs to be strained because if crud builds up on the bottom, the thermostat isn't very reliable. Just pour the oil through a strainer or cheese cloth back into the original bottle after the oil cools, and you'll be all set.

Source: Southerner who fries a lot.

I also missed the deal. :(

I'm currently looking at https://www.amazon.com/Upgraded-Aobosi-Multifunctional-Protection-Qualified/dp/B01LXP7YCQ/

Similar price, same 8 quarts, same wattage as the Instantpot deal. But I'm unfamiliar with what disadvantages might come with this model.

Thanks for the great answer, madison! :)

As someone who cooked pretty extensively in IV for two years, here are some more tips:

1. Cooking equipment NEEDS to have auto-shutoff, and please do not cover the fire alarm.
   I don't wanna be seeing no news articles about IV burning down.
   
   
2. I love my vegetable steamer.
   Link: https://www.amazon.com/Oster-CKSTSTMD5-W-5-Quart-Steamer-White/dp/B00519EDIA/ref=sr_1_5?s=kitchen&ie=UTF8&qid=1503967085&sr=1-5&keywords=vegetable+steamer
   
   
3. If you have the money at some point, consider a foldable cart.
   Link: https://www.amazon.com/Origami-RBT-02-Kitchen-Cart/dp/B0082H30LY/ref=sr_1_1?s=home-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1503967105&sr=1-1&keywords=origami+folding+cart
   
   I cooked pancakes, eggs, fish, rice, beans, etc, without any problem. I usually opened the window, cooked near the window, and kept a fan on.

The draw of the slow cooker is you can cook something for long periods of time with little to no tending. As an alternative, I got this for my cousin a few years ago. He loves it for the delay feature and that it steams the food. He puts rice and veggies in it, program it to start shortly before he gets home, and all he has to do was cook up a protein.

Aroma 12 Cup
Perfect for my dorm room, it makes pasta and steams veggies well too!
a similar model from target only cost me $25

Shoot, you can get a rice cooker/steamer from Amazon for super cheap.

I got this one and it makes cooking dinner stupidly easy... follow the instructions, toss a bit of rice in the bottom, after a few minutes, toss some veggies and a bit of chicken or fish in the steam basket.

It might take you a couple tries to get it right (if stuff is still uncooked in the middle, just toss it in the microwave to finish it off until you get the hang of it), but it's worth it. Super easy, cheap, healthy meals!

https://www.amazon.com/Hamilton-Beach-Digital-Food-Steamer/dp/B00MA34AB0/ref=sr_1_5?s=kitchen&ie=UTF8&qid=1501706072&sr=1-5&keywords=vegetable+steamer

Alternatively, one of these. Rice cooker, steamer, AND slow cooker. I got mine at Costco for ~$30 and I could not be happier with it.

As a matter of fact, I do cook rice and eggs in the microwave. (/u/VoidTorcher) For rice, I use something like this (but cheaper), so it doesn't go everywhere. Eggs can be poached with something like this (I think I had a Netto one once, it was iffy, but worked), but scrambled egg is much better in the microwave - just beat eggs, milk and pepper in a jug and microwave, stiring with a fork at regular, short intervals.

Edit: Check this, turns out you can do chicken in the microwave! (though it isn't recommended, it looks mank)

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001A2E4YU

I use mine a couple times a week. The convenience of a rice cooker is well worth the price to me. Before I had a rice cooker I would cook rice rarely. Now I have it all the time. I'm about ready to go back to the Asian store and get another 25# bag. ..don't buy the overpriced grocery store crap if you can help it.

I saw someone else recommended the one by cooks illustrated. Great show and magazine. Go with that one first. I think mine is pretty awesome if that one doesn't work for you.

I actually just ordered and mailed out the card for my father-in-law today, from my daughters. My own father passed away in 2011 so we will go to his grave site before we have lunch with the in-laws next weekend.

This is the front and this in the inside of the card.

My father-in-law has everything he could want for but my husband desperately wants a new rice cooker after our last one spontaneously stopped working. Honestly, I thought the poor guy was gonna cry, he loved that thing so much. He's getting into all sorts of Asian-inspired cuisines which makes me happy because I get out of cooking! ;)

Cheers for holding this contest for Father's Day - good to see all the stand up dads of Reddit getting their deserved recognition!

Get some of these:

https://www.amazon.com/uxcell-Stainless-Steamer-Steaming-13-5cm/dp/B005VA2YH6

I give the runoff to my vegetables in the summer, otherwise it goes down the toilet unfortunately.

If I notice my ppm is really high I will flush with some plain water, but if its just moderately high I will give like 50% nute strength; I have heard its not good to flush with plain water though, better to use like a 20% solution, but I'm not sure

I also flush the last 7 days or so

Just a novice though

I would strongly recommend getting a rice cooker. I have this one: http://www.amazon.com/Aroma-ARC-838TC-Uncooked-Digital-Steamer/dp/B000HKFE8G/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1344974640 and it will make you tons of cheap rice with nearly the same amount of effort as microwavable rice [all you do is add water and press start] and will taste better [Id rather cook once and then microwave than microwave twice, and you can get higher quality rice] and it will be incredibly cheap.

I've radically altered my diet (and exercise) in the last year, and one of the main keys was that I bought a rice steamer. It's freakin' amazing (and not expensive).

https://www.amazon.com/Hamilton-Beach-Digital-Food-Steamer/dp/B00MA34AB0

At this point I hardly even use it for rice, because I've been dropping the calories, but I can get bags of frozen mixed veggies from the grocery store, toss them in one of the trays, steam them for 20 minutes, throw them in a bowl, and since I've dropped pasta from my diet, I treat the veggies (or veggies w rice) essentially like I would have done pasta... sauces plus cheeses and some ranch....

Cleanup is SUPER easy. Before I eat I just take the components right to the sink and spray it down and set it to dry (with a more careful cleaning every few days).

In all, it's less than 10 minutes total for prep and cleanup, and 20 minutes to steam.

It's been a game-changer for me.

Addition: Brown rice takes an hour total to steam, but it turns out great, and is much healthier than white rice.

Just get something like this and steam in a wide pot or pan

I bought one of these new and it rocks!

by far one of my favorite $15 investments.

Thanks - I actually did some research and ordered this from Amazon with some rice paddles:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000HKFE8G

Should have it by Friday so hoping to try all this out this weekend.

I got this from Costco for $30. Makes great brown rice, perfect steamed veggies and I've done some soups and sauces as slow cooker which worked fine.

Okay, it’s this. I hope your days get brighter and I’ll try to make mine more positive for me :)

Actually.... use a rice cooker (here's one I have) and measure out the rice and the water correctly, following the directions which tell you how much water to put in for how much rice (and there are corresponding marks on the pan that goes in the cooker). Using too much water makes it mushy, too little it's no good either. That model I linked to which has a lid that kinda locks down is better than some of the cheaper ones (like Black and Decker with a glass lid) because with those other ones you had to get the rice out right away or it would start burning.

I want this rice cooker because I suck at cooking rice and pretty much burn it or make it goopy every time unless I bought an over priced bag of 60 second microwave rice. I don't need it because I should really learn as an adult how the fuck to make rice.╰༼◉Д◕༽〜┣▇▇▇═──

Random fact: I have a dent in my forehead. Or more technically...ya know, my skull. When I was little I always watched my sister stand on the toilet seat to reach into the bathroom cupboard, and so one day when my Mom had people over, I did what I saw..the toilet lid slipped to the side and little me fell and hit my head on the tub and got knocked unconscious. Cue my sister running to my Mom and her finding me in a pool of blood. ..good times, good times.

If you cook rice even once per month, do yourself a favor and buy a rice cooker. It's what all the asians use, trust me. All you have to do is combine rice and water in the right ratio (read the pot's instructions) and push the "cook" switch. It automatically switches off when the rice is ready, and keeps it warm for hours later if that's what you need without overcooking.

Protip: add a pinch of salt and a pat of butter before cooking to improve your rice. Washing your rice and adding a dollop of vegetable oil will also help keep it from getting overly sticky, if you don't like it that way

I use a presto pot and it's fantastic! It melts the wax much faster allowing you to then pour the melted wax into pour pots. I hope you try it. This is the one I got and I love it!
http://www.amazon.com/Presto-Options-Electric-Multi-Cooker-Steamer/dp/B00005OTXY/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1451867108&sr=8-1&keywords=Presto+pot

First, get yourself one of these https://www.amazon.com/Sistema-Microwave-Cookware-Steamer-Ounce/dp/B00BTIVNT4/ref=sr_1_2?s=home-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1483657835&sr=1-2&keywords=microwave+rice+cooker

3/4 c white rice
1 1/4 c water
can beans (any of your choice)
1 tbsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
chopped olives
1/4 c zucchini
1 tomato chopped
1/4 c chopped cilantro
In the microwave rice cooker, combine rice, water, beans, oregano and basil. Cook on high 10-11 min or until rice is cooked. Stir in olives and zucchini. Cook for another 2 min. Stir in tomato and cilantro. Top with soy sauce if desired.

This is taken from The Garden of Vegan which actually has a whole section for microwave meals. You should see if your local library has a copy!

Pro tip: Invest in a steamer - you can make hard boiled eggs in here AND a steam veggies, corn, fish too (apparently..?). It has way more options :)

what about a griddle? or electric skillet? with the griddle you can make bacon, eggs, pancakes, grilled cheese, etc... and the electric skillet you can saute and braise. that being said. I will post several recipes you can pick through.

[Make ahead Slow Cooker Beef Stew] (http://www.copymethat.com/r/pvbgTFq/make-ahead-slow-cooker-beef-stew-busyspo/)

]Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Stew] (http://www.copymethat.com/r/4QAPG4S/slow-cooker-tuscan-chicken-stew-from-swe/)

[Biggest Looser Crock Pot Turkey Chili] (http://www.copymethat.com/r/87rrsMl/biggest-looser-crock-pot-turkey-chili/)

[cheesey Ravioli Casserole] I haven't tried this one yet. but looks so comforting
(http://www.copymethat.com/r/oVO0y3q/cheesy-ravioli-casserole-pillsbury/)

Really easy and doesn't make a ton
[Creamy Beef Potato Stew] (http://www.copymethat.com/r/wxM21qf/creamy-beef-potato-stew-better-homes-gar/)

If you have a leftover piece of Steak... preferably under cooked. you can use it in this dish. and using your electric skillet you can cook the onions etc... this is really good. you can omit the wine if need be too. you can buy a product to cook your pasta and rices in the microwave.

this rice cooker is AMAZING! you can probably find a smaller one if need be too

[microwave rice cooker]
(https://www.amazon.com/Sistema-Microwave-Cookware-Steamer-Random/dp/B00BTIVNT4/ref=sr_1_1?s=home-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1467860589&sr=1-1&keywords=microwave+rice+cooker)

[Penne with Beef and Sun Dried Tomatoes] (http://www.copymethat.com/r/nklm8Ut/penne-with-beef-and-sun-dried-tomatoes/)


[you might be able to use this for your pasta]

(https://www.amazon.com/Microwave-Pasta-Boat--Perfect-Every/dp/B003XS32OW/ref=sr_1_4?s=home-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1467860674&sr=1-4&keywords=microwave+pasta+cooker)

I love this steamer

You can steam a ton of things in it and it comes with instructions on how to steam veggies as well as meats and rice. A rice cooker would certainly make a larger quantity of rice.

Also if you are willing to spend money: a slow cooker. I go for the ones without the bells and whistles

Believe me -- I sympathize with you when it comes to growing up around a ton of unhealthy food. My mother is full-blooded Italian and did all of the cooking in our house, which meant carbs ALL THE TIME. So much goddamned pasta.

If you're serious about losing weight, you need to let your parents know. Sit down with them and have a heart-to-heart conversation. Encourage them to make healthier choices at the supermarket. Try and convince your mother to take the money she's spending on Herbalife and put it towards better groceries to bring home. Better eating doesn't have to be expensive though -- Safeway has 3.5-pound packages of Eating Right boneless/skinless chicken breasts for $3-4 per pound. This can easily feed a whole family.

If they won't budge, start to learn how to cook for yourself. The two biggest things that helped me accomplish this: a Crock Pot and a rice cooker / steamer.

The Crock Pot is amazing to make large quantities of proteins (pork loin, pot roast, beef stew, etc.) Takes a long time to cook, but once you put the ingredients in it, food practically makes itself.

With the rice cooker, you can put a cup of quinoa in the cooker part, and a chicken breast and a head of broccoli in the steamer basket. 20 minutes later...boom --dinner.

Hope this helps :D

Any suggestions for a rice cooker?

Here are two I was looking at on amazon:

• Panasonic brand
  
• Aroma brand

The easiest way to do acetone smoothing is with a cheap hot pot like this one (which is what I use): Presto 06003 Options Electric Multi-Cooker/Steamer https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00005OTXY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_pCAeAbWMBC57F

You put a little acetone in the bottom, below the level of the basket, and put the part in the basket. Plug it in on the lowest level, with the glass top on, and watch and listen. You hear the acetone boil and see the vapor creep up the part, wetting the surface. When adequately smoothed you lift out the basket with the part and give it a few minutes to dry.

I had this one though it's a lot more money now. It was either $30 or $35 in Costco a few years back.

Las de microondas jalan bien.

https://www.amazon.com.mx/Sistema-1110-microwave-cookware-Transperent/dp/B00BTIVNT4?th=1&psc=1&source=googleshopping&locale=es-MX&tag=googhydr0mx-20&ref=pd_sl_2zk9g4v567_e

Well, kind of. More like:

• Los Angeles vagina steamer
  
• Cincinnati vagina steamer
  
  EDIT: Forgot "Cleveland" steamer meant something else, doh!

https://smile.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00MA34AB0/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1480608030&sr=8-1&pi=SY200_QL40&keywords=digital+steamer&dpPl=1&dpID=41k8s6uJCSL&ref=plSrch I use this one. It's amazing. My steamed veggies taste great, I hardboil eggs, cook rice, steam meats, etc.

https://smile.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00FLYWNYQ/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1480608788&sr=8-1&pi=SX200_QL40&keywords=instant+pot&dpPl=1&dpID=51NyTEpnorL&ref=plSrch this one is popular too but more expensive. It was on sale recently for black Friday but I didn't buy it bc I already have a crock pot and steamer.

I was just going to microwave it if possible.

I have this thing, which can fit a large amount of it, but it doesn't give instructions for more than 1 cup.

While this works just fine, a rice cooker is not expensive and literally gives you perfect rice everytime...

OP I have this one(may be too big for you, I cook for my family too):
http://www.amazon.com/Aroma-ARC-1266F-12-Cup-Cooked-Steamer/dp/B002DML11K/ref=sr_1_10?ie=UTF8&qid=1370869652&sr=8-10&keywords=aroma+rice+cooker

CAE It's a little pricey, but I could totally use it to steam veggies at work for lunch, to go with my healthier meal choices!

Or, there's this: CAKE I can always use these to clean up my grill.

Or, you know, I like surprises, too! Happy Cakeday, and thanks for the contest!

I don't really have any suggestions as to the brand. I used a $10 rice cooker that I bought at Walgreens for years-it always worked just fine. I moved cross country and bought this one--it comes with a little tray to steam veggies which is cool. If I had more money to spend, I'd go for one with a stainless steel inside, but those get kind of pricey.

One suggestion I have is to not bother washing it right away. Rice gets stuck to it and it's much easier to clean if you soak it overnight first. Especially if you get one with non-stick coating, which becomes carcinogenic if you scratch it.

This is even better!

Digital food steamer: http://www.amazon.com/Hamilton-Beach-37537-Digital-Steamer/dp/B002SB8LPA

Easy, quick, healthy; ours is used every night. A couple of times we cooked a whole meal for 4 without using the stove. It works with rice, fish, eggs (for a fast breakfast) and of course vegetables.

It's portable enough, I'm considering one for the office kitchen.

ok, i've got my interest now, so one of these?

I make really good rice on the hob, how does this compare? Should I be pre-rinsing the rice also?

If you're cooking short rice, are you pre-washing it (UNLESS the bag says do not wash)? Basically, put the rice in, put in some cold water, swish the rice around in the water so it doesn't stick to the sides, and tip it (blocking the rice from falling out with your hand), and repeat until the water comes out mostly clean.

There are also suggested water-to-rice suggestions that aren't exactly linear. Even if it's 3 cups water to 1 cup rice (they usually come with a measuring cup) it's not going to be 6 cups water to 2 cups rice. They should come with a manual that gives you suggestions.

Some rice cookers also have different settings for brown and white. Also, I'd suggest not using the "quick" settings unless you must (which does mean like ~40 minutes of cook time.

Something like the Aroma rice cookers are pretty idiot proof.

EDIT: Also, go to Korean markets.

EDIT2: White girlfriend input about swishing

>I feel like I have to in order to be healthy and to slim down. Is this true?

Yes and no. Yes, cardiovascular health is important. Yes, you should be able to jog a mile or two. No, you do not need cardio to lose weight.

As for the food, sushi can be pretty healthy, and a burger now and then won't hurt you. Are there really no healthier options? No grilled chicken or anything? One option is to get the salad and add goodies to it. For the dorm room, I highly suggest a small George Foreman grill. You can grill meats, sandwiches, veggies, etc. and there's no exposed heating element (like how in dorms you can't have toasters or burners), so it should be fine. They're also very easy to clean. So you could always grill some stuff to add to the dorm salads. Other options are to add things like chickpeas (garbanzo beans), which you can just buy canned and they go great in any salad, or mixed with rice or veggies.

Trying to go for the healthy option and sleeping more are probably both the most important thing you can do to feel like you have more energy. So, here's what you should buy:

• garbanzo beans
  
• Any other beans really. Mix beans, veggies you steam in your new steamer (see below), add little bit of cheese and eat, or add to salad
  
• greek yogurt
  
• one-two chicken breasts at a time (I'm assuming no freezer)
  
• Canned chicken is an option, but it's heavily salted, so look for the low-sodium kind if possible
  
• george foreman grill
  
• instant microwaveable rice
  
• or a small rice cooker/pasta cooker/water boiler
  
• fruits
  
• vegetables (you can steam them, add salt and pepper and light salad dressing)
  
• hummus and baby carrots are a good snack
  
• make hard boiled eggs in your water boiler
  
• boil diced chicken in your water boiler, shred with fork, add pickle relish, light mayo, salt, and pepper, and optional walnuts and cranberries for chicken salad that you can put on salad or sandwich
  
• Essential spices: salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper.
  
• Snacks to keep handy so you don't binge on candy and soda: healthy granola bars (like kind bars), single-serve tuna packets (steal mayo packets from cafeteria if needed), apples, peanut butter
  
• protein and milk - make protein shakes, they're filling and healthy
  
  Also, check out /r/EatCheapAndHealthy for some other ideas.
  
  As for non-boring workout programs. I do powerlifting and I love it. There are a handful of programs listed in the FAQ you could check out. Also, your university probably offers different activities and classes at the Rec center!

If I want a big pile of mashed potato, I haul out my steamer. Mine's much older, but that's the sort - two big clear plastic baskets, stacked over a heat source. I don't have air conditioning, so this is a summer life-saver. It doesn't heat up the kitchen the way boiling a pot of water would.

It may be the ultimate comfort food. It's also a great ingredient... and if your potatoes are all sprouting on you, this is a good way of making them into something you can make into something.

But this is the time to as, if I am butchering veggies at the sink, need I limit myself to potatoes?

Nope. Ssing a smaller dice than you used for the potatoes, toss in a small rutabaga (swede). It's spicy, peppery notes will go very well. Turnips work too. A parsnip will add to the mix. Carrots are cheap and you always forget they are in the fridge, don't you? Throw in a carrot. It will look festive. If you want pink potatoes, a small diced beet will add complexity. Hell, they are so overpowering that getting non-beet lovers to accept this cheap iron-rich delight is a challenge. Sneak some in there!

You can even go out of range - throw in some diced winter squash. Now you can call it "squish."

Because that's what you are going to do to it. Squish it.

Salt and pepper to taste, oil, margarine or butter, again, to taste, serve.

Plus the cookers are really cheap and you don't have to just cook rice \^_\^

Get one of these.

I had a microwave rice cooker similar to this one when I was in uni. It seriously saved my life and it cooks the rice quite well if you just follow the directions. You can also steam veggies in there.
Sistema Microwave Collection Rice Cooker, 87.2 oz./2.6 L, Red https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00BTIVNT4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_--eWBbYSEYGKY

Yea, on mobile so sorry about the link but they are talking about this:

Hamilton Beach 37530A Digital Food Steamer, 5.5 Quart, Silver & Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00MA34AB0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_iHmQDbSJ75H70

If you wanna buy one go for it. I have one but they taste exactly the same either way tbh

I see, some of the prices are outdated. I don't know what the difference between that tray and a Walgreen's one is but how many different ways can you make a basic plastic ice tray? Looking at that ice tray it doesn't seem like it has extra "features" to make ice pop easier or some "extra durable" plastic.

I was initially observing the fact that it's hard to believe a $129 rice cooker is in the top 100 bought products, but then realized the list is about HIGHEST rated products. Even then the $129 rice cooker is outmatched by the higher rated $34.99 rice cooker.

This rice cooker has 4.3/5 stars plus 140 reviews and costs only $34.99. Was the first result when I searched for rice cooker. It seems you either didn't put enough effort into a simple search for "Rice cooker" or you're picking/choosing products based on opinion.

http://www.amazon.com/Aroma-ARC-838TC-Digital-Cooker-Steamer/dp/B000HKFE8G/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1300911577&sr=8-1

r/mealprepsunday

Also, get yourself an insta pot. I use a normal steamer but insta pots save tons of time. Use pre portioned frozen healthy stuff you can set and then serve.

Hamilton Beach Digital Food Steamer - 5.5 Quart (37530A) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00MA34AB0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_QVlEAb8C7TY3F

That’s what I use but I’m just a girl with a giant boyfriend. So you’re dealing with more. Sunday meal prep can help you especially with an insta pot to get awesome healthy food ready for the whole week whether someone is being picky or you’re being lazy or whatever.

If you are in college, the mechanisms by which you cook matter as well. Make sure you have a rice cooker and preferably an electric wok

Also, finding the best places and times to shop. Some stuff is cheaper to buy in bulk. Some goes on sale once a week. Farmers market, amazon, etc.

[buy a microwave rice cooker] (https://www.amazon.com/Sistema-Microwave-Collection-Rice-Cooker/dp/B00BTIVNT4/ref=sr_1_6?keywords=sistema%2Brice%2Bcooker&qid=1574805967&sr=8-6&th=1). cheap, set it and forget it, and easy to clean.

1. wash rice
   
   
2. ratio is 1 cup of water per cup of rice + 1/4 cup water
   
   
3. 5 minutes full power, 10 minutes 1/2 power.
   
   
4. enjoy rice (and cancer from BPA)

Thanks. I was looking at this sistema one but wondering if it's too big for small portions :
Sistema Microwave Rice Steamer, 2.6 L - Red/Clear https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00BTIVNT4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_6dySzb8EJCV1W

they weren't simple splashes.. it was a lot of water that dripped from under the lid and almost flooded my microwave if it wasn't from the dish at the bottom... if I can't seal it tight then I'll probably invest in a microwave rice cooker, but from what I've seen it's just the same container with more openings on the top

This one on Amazon is over $200.

Is that like when there's one copy of a CD for $300 even though all the others are $10? Or are you just stupid lucky?

I have an Instant Pot and a $100 fancy rice cooker but I still use the cheap, small $16 one I got off Amazon the most - https://www.amazon.com/Aroma-Housewares-UNCOOKED-Steamer-ARC-743-1NGB/dp/B004O83YVQ/ref=sr_1_7?s=kitchen&ie=UTF8&qid=1466108785&sr=1-7&keywords=rice+cooker

Bought this one

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000HKFE8G/ref=oh_details_o00_s00_i00


Love it.

This.