How to Use a Crock-Pot to Cook Rice

Crock-pots are the busy mom's workhorse. Learning how to use one to do the cooking not only gains a home cooked meal but some extra time with the kids as well. Follow these simple steps to have the crock-pot cook your rice while you go for another round of tag.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Crock-pot
• Rice
• Water
• Butter or oil
• Vegetables and seasonings (optional)

1. Measure the rice, water and butter or oil. In general you want 2 cups of water for every 1 cup of rice. The great thing about the crock-pot is more water can be added if necessary without too much change in the texture of the rice.
2. Place the rice and water into the crock-pot. You can also add things like canned or frozen vegetables and spices if you like, but be sure to add a little bit of extra water for cooking them as well.
3. Set your crock-pot to the lowest setting. If you are starting this more than 3 or 4 hours ahead of time, turn to the "keep warm" setting after about 4 hours. Even though the rice is not likely to burn, turning your crock-pot to this setting ensures you wont have to scrub the sides of your crock when cleaning.
4. Go play with your kids while the crock-pot does the cooking. Make sure to tell them about the great dinner you have planned.
5. Serve and enjoy your rice. You can get your protein with a simple addition of a can or two of pinto or kidney beans for a complete meal.

Tips & Warnings

• Experiment with different combinations of additions to the rice. For instance pinto beans and chopped tomatoes with some cumin and chili pepper served with some cheddar cheese gives your meal a nice Mexican flair. A can of olives, a can of tomato paste, some Italian seasoning and garlic served with a sprinkle of mozzarella brings home the Italian taste.