7 Rice Cooker Meals to Shake Up Your Meal Prep Routine
I’ve had my rice cooker for a while now, and it’s been a total workhorse in my kitchen. I used to think it was just for, well, cooking rice, but it’s so much more versatile than that. With summer approaching and grilling season in full swing, I’ve been looking for ways to prep meals that are easy to grab and go.
Breakfast Options
I like to start my day with a hearty breakfast, and my rice cooker has become a key player in that. I make a big batch of steel-cut oats with fruit and nuts on Sundays, which takes about 20 minutes and costs around $5 for the week. I also use it to make frittatas – just crack in some eggs, add diced veggies and cheese, and cook on the porridge setting. It’s a great way to use up any leftover veggies I have lying around, and it’s ready in about 10 minutes.
- 1 cup steel-cut oats
- 2 cups water
- 1/2 cup mixed fruit and nuts
- Pinch of salt
Lunch and Dinner Ideas
For lunch and dinner, I’ve been experimenting with different grain and protein combinations. I make a mean chicken and rice bowl with just a few ingredients: 1 cup uncooked white rice, 2 cups chicken broth, 1 lb boneless chicken breast, and some diced carrots and peas. It’s ready in about 30 minutes and costs around $6 for 4 servings. I also like to make a big batch of lentil soup, which is just 1 cup uncooked lentils, 2 cups veg broth, and some diced onions and garlic. It’s a great way to meal prep for the week, and it’s ready in about 40 minutes.
- 1 cup uncooked white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 lb boneless chicken breast
- 1 cup mixed veggies
Tips and Tricks
I’ve found that the key to using my rice cooker is to just experiment and see what works. It’s not just for rice, and it’s not just for Asian-inspired dishes. I’ve made mac and cheese, chili, and even a pretty decent risotto in it. Just remember to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and don’t be afraid to get creative. And if you’re looking for a gift for your mom this Mother’s Day, consider a rice cooker – it’s a practical and versatile kitchen tool that she can use all year round.
What do you use your rice cooker for – do you have any favorite recipes or tips to share?
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