Mum’s Rice Cooker Rice with Mushrooms and Chinese Broccoli is a delightful one-pot dish that transforms simple ingredients into a flavorful family meal.

FULL RECIPE:

Ingredients

For the Toppings:

• 315g (0.7 lb) rehydrated shiitake mushrooms
• 200g (0.44 lb) lion’s mane mushrooms
• 2 bundles Chinese broccoli
• 30g (0.07 lb) ginger, finely chopped
• 165g (0.4 lb) vegetarian burdock strips
• 2¼ US cups brown rice
• 2⅓ US cups hot water (for cooking the grains)

For the Seasoning:

• 1½ tsp salt (or to taste; reserve ½ tsp for the rice)
• 1½ tsp vegetable stock powder (save ½ tsp for the rice)
• 1 tsp pepper (or to preference)
• 1 tsp honey (or to taste)
• 2 tbsp sesame oil
• 2 tbsp vegetarian oyster sauce
• 2 tbsp light soy sauce (or to taste)
• ⅔ US cup oil (save ½ cup for the mushrooms and the remaining for the greens)

Directions

1. Wash the grains, then place them in the rice cooker with hot water, ½ tsp salt, and 1½ tsp vegetable stock powder. Set it to the ‘brown rice’ setting and cook until the water has dried up.
2. Meanwhile, cut the burdock strips and each mushroom into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
3. Wash the Chinese broccoli three times in lightly salted cold water, then let them drip dry in a colander. Separate the stems and leaves, and cut them into 3cm (1.2″) segments.
4. Pour ½ cup oil into a pan on medium heat and add the ginger, cooking for 30 seconds or until fragrant.
5. Add the sliced mushrooms and burdock. Cook on high heat for 3 minutes or until just browned.
6. Season with vegetarian oyster sauce, light soy sauce, honey, pepper, ½ tsp vegetable stock powder, and ½ tsp salt.
7. Transfer the cooked ingredients into the rice cooker and close the lid.
8. Add the remaining oil into the wok and keep the heat on high. Cook the Chinese broccoli stems for 2 minutes or until just beginning to soften.
9. Add the leaves along with the remaining salt and vegetable stock powder, then stir for 3 minutes or until cooked.
10. Lay the greens over the mushrooms in the rice cooker.
11. Stir the contents in the rice cooker and let it cook for another 10 minutes with the lid on. Serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 266 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 43g
• Protein: 10g
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g
• Monounsaturated Fat: 2g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Potassium: 634mg
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 2g
• Vitamin A: 1 IU
• Vitamin C: 2mg
• Calcium: 7mg
• Iron: 1mg

Health Benefits of Rice Cooker Rice with Mushrooms and Chinese Broccoli

Rice Cooker Rice with Mushrooms and Chinese Broccoli is not just a delicious meal but also a powerhouse of nutrition. It combines the benefits of whole grains, vegetables, and plant-based protein, making it a well-balanced and healthy dish. The base of this dish is brown rice, which is a great source of fiber, vitamins, and essential minerals. Unlike white rice, brown rice retains its bran and germ layers, providing more nutrients and a lower glycemic index, which helps maintain steady blood sugar levels. This makes it an excellent choice for those looking to sustain energy levels throughout the day while supporting digestive health. Mushrooms play a significant role in this dish, offering not just deep umami flavors but also various health benefits. They are packed with antioxidants, particularly ergothioneine and selenium, which help combat oxidative stress and reduce inflammation. Mushrooms are also known to support the immune system, thanks to their beta-glucan content, which enhances immune cell function.

Why You Should Try This One-Pot Meal

One of the most appealing aspects of this dish is its simplicity. Using a rice cooker significantly reduces the time and effort needed for meal preparation, making it an ideal choice for busy individuals and families. Since all the ingredients cook together, their flavors meld beautifully, creating a dish that is both fragrant and deeply satisfying. The rice absorbs the umami essence of the mushrooms, ginger, and seasonings, resulting in a meal that feels both comforting and indulgent. Another reason to try this dish is its adaptability. The recipe can be customized based on personal preferences or dietary needs. For instance, if you prefer a protein-rich version, you can add tofu, tempeh, or even plant-based meat substitutes. If you enjoy experimenting with different textures and flavors, a variety of mushrooms such as oyster, enoki, or cremini can be included. Some people may also choose to add a handful of nuts or seeds, such as cashews or sesame seeds, for added crunch and nutrition. This dish is also highly budget-friendly.

Cultural Significance and Traditional Influence

Rice is a staple food in many Asian cultures, and dishes like this one have deep roots in traditional Chinese cooking. This particular recipe draws inspiration from Cantonese cuisine, where ingredients such as mushrooms, ginger, and soy sauce are commonly used to create rich and savory flavors. One-pot rice dishes have been a beloved part of Chinese family meals for generations, often made in clay pots or bamboo steamers before modern rice cookers became widely available. Cooking rice with vegetables and seasonings in a single pot is a technique that dates back centuries. This method not only enhances the flavor but also makes use of all the nutrients that would otherwise be lost during separate cooking processes. Traditional Cantonese clay pot rice follows a similar concept, where rice is cooked with various proteins, vegetables, and sauces to create a hearty, well-balanced meal.

Versatility and Serving Suggestions

This dish can be enjoyed in many ways, making it suitable for different occasions. It can be served as a main course for a simple yet fulfilling dinner, or it can be paired with other dishes as part of a larger meal. For example, it goes well with a side of light soup, such as a simple miso or clear vegetable broth, which helps balance the richness of the rice. If you are looking for additional protein, you can serve it alongside grilled tofu, stir-fried tempeh, or even a plate of steamed fish. The dish also complements other Chinese-style dishes, such as sautéed greens with garlic, braised tofu, or sweet and sour vegetables. For those who enjoy a bit of spice, adding a drizzle of homemade chili oil or serving it with a side of pickled vegetables can enhance the flavors even further. Since this dish is mild yet flavorful, it is also an excellent choice for meal prepping. It stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days, with the flavors continuing to develop over time. To keep it fresh, store it in airtight containers and reheat it with a splash of water or broth to prevent the rice from drying out. 

Conclusion

Rice Cooker Rice with Mushrooms and Chinese Broccoli is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a nutritious and satisfying meal. It offers a balanced combination of whole grains, vegetables, and healthy fats, making it both flavorful and beneficial for overall well-being. The ease of preparation makes it an excellent option for home cooks of all skill levels, while its adaptability allows for endless variations to suit different tastes and dietary needs. This dish not only reflects traditional Chinese cooking techniques but also showcases the beauty of one-pot meals. By using a rice cooker, you can achieve a restaurant-quality dish with minimal effort, making it an ideal choice for busy schedules.