1.
Method - Using Bamboo Steamer and Banana Leaf
Rinse rice until it runs clear.
2.
Place the rinsed rice in a bowl and pour cold water to about 2-3 inches above the rice. Let it stand for 6-8 hours - a minimal of at least 4 hours.
3.
You can use Cheesecloth to steam the rice. But for this pictorial I have made use of banana leaves so that it can impart flavor to the rice. Clean the banana leaves by rinsing it in cold water. You can also use boiling water to do the same.
4.
Wipe off the excess water with paper towel on both the sides.
5.
Tear off/cut yellow/hard portions of the leaf
6.
Cut it in a size that will fit your steamer.
7.
I cut into an approximate rounds so that it lines and fits my bamboo steamer
9.
Place it in the steamer.
10.
Steam in Medium-High heat for about 20-25 minutes. The timing depends on the soaking time and the age of the rice. but on an average, I think it takes 20-30 minutes to get done. I use a regular vessel filled with water and place my steamer above it. You can drop few coins in the water to make sure that the water does not evaporate completely. The coins will keep making a sound while the water is boiling and will stop when there is not enough water :)
11.
You know the rice is done when it is tender and looks translucent. Press the rice between your fingers. It should be firm but not hard.
By judy on Jun 12, 2014