Steaming butternut squash in an Aroma rice cooker is an easy way to get the perfect vegetables in fewer than 20 minutes. Not only does it take less time to cook, but the results can taste better than stove-top-steaming, because the heat is more evenly distributed and the humidity levels are consistent the whole way through. Prepping the rice cooker and steaming the squash is fairly simple, and this guide will outline exactly how to do it.

What You Need to Steam Butternut Squash

To steam butternut squash in an Aroma rice cooker, you will need a few simple ingredients and cooking tools. At its most basic, all that is needed is an Aroma rice cooker, a measuring cup with a spout for measuring liquid amounts, a scrub brush for cleaning the butternut squash, a cutting board, a large kitchen knife, and a spoon for transfer of the butternut squash pieces out of their skin.

In addition to these items, you may also want to have a few other items on hand. These include a timer to ensure that the butternut squash is cooked to the desired level of tenderness, a colander to drain the cooked squash, and a serving dish to present the finished dish. Having these items on hand will make the process of steaming butternut squash much easier and more enjoyable.

Steps for Steaming Butternut Squash in an Aroma Rice Cooker

The whole process of steaming the butternut squash takes roughly 20 minutes. The first step is to wash the butternut squash well with a scrub brush to remove any dirt or debris. After the butternut squash is washed and dried, cut it into 1-inch cubes and transfer them to the inner pot of the Aroma rice cooker. To cook, add a cup of water through the measuring cup with a spout to the bottom of the rice cooker. Place the lid on and hit “Steam”. Once the timer is up, press “Keep Warm” and let sit for 10 minutes. The steam vent should be in the “Release” position.

Once the 10 minutes are up, open the lid and check the butternut squash for doneness. If it is not cooked through, add a few more minutes of steaming time. When the butternut squash is cooked through, remove it from the rice cooker and season with salt and pepper to taste. Enjoy!

Benefits of Steaming Butternut Squash

Besides being convenient, steaming butternut squash in an Aroma rice cooker has many other benefits. The steaming process releases beneficial components such as vitamins and minerals from the vegetables, allowing them to be more easily absorbed by the body. Steam cooking preserves more of the fresh flavor and nutrients of the vegetables than boiling or roasting them in an oven. Steam cooking also takes less time than these alternative methods.

In addition, steaming butternut squash in an Aroma rice cooker is a healthier option than frying or sautéing. This is because the vegetables are cooked in their own juices, which helps to retain their natural flavor and nutrients. Furthermore, steaming does not require the use of added fats or oils, making it a low-calorie cooking method.

Tips for Cooking Butternut Squash in a Rice Cooker

To ensure that the butternut squash cooks thoroughly, try to keep the cubes as close to one-inch as possible. The closer they are in size, the more evenly they will cook. Also, check on the butternut squash while it’s steaming by releasing steam from the vent and using a spoon to stir it up. If necessary, add a splash more water if it is drying out.

When the butternut squash is finished cooking, it should be tender and easily pierced with a fork. If it is still too firm, add a few more minutes of cooking time. Once the butternut squash is cooked, you can season it with your favorite herbs and spices, or add it to your favorite recipes.

Troubleshooting Common Issues with Steaming Butternut Squash in an Aroma Rice Cooker

The most common issue with steaming butternut squash in an Aroma rice cooker is overcooking or burning. To prevent accidents like this, make sure that you monitor and stir the squash during the steaming process. If necessary, add a squirt of water before serving to maintain moisture. Additionally, make sure that you use a wooden spoon to stir it, as metal utensils can damage the inner pot of the rice cooker.

Alternatives to Steaming Butternut Squash in a Rice Cooker

If you do not have an Aroma rice cooker handy or if you would prefer to cook the butternut squash on the stove top, you can also steam it on low heat in a saucepan with some water at the bottom. The key is to prevent burning by only adding enough water that it evaporates quickly. You may also want to cover the pan while steaming, which helps to steam all of the ingredients together.