help with keeping rice warm for party

Lunar_Eclipse

scuzie wrote: »

How about microwave rice...you can then heat as you need it? And there are different types. Not cheapest solution but...

It's a good idea, but I think because it would need to be done in batches to cook enough for 12 hungry people, it would be easier buying quick cook rice and doing it whilst they were here.

Lunar_Eclipse

Pink-winged wrote: »

Hi Lunar Eclipse,

Rice contains a a nasty bacteria (bacillus cerius) that can cause problema if not stored at the correct temperature so I would be wary of keeping it warm for any length of time.

Gosh, I really had no idea! It looks so innocent! I wouldn't think an hour (max) in the oven would cause issues, but I'll investigate to be safe.

ETA: having read through this thread, I think I'd better cook it to serve. Or change my menu. It sounds like a pain in the preverbial! I just wanted something inexpensive, quick to make, easy to serve & yummy to eat. Maybe lasagne would be a better option - no rice required.

Pink.

Lunar_Eclipse wrote: »

Ok, I didn't know that. :rolleyes: I wouldn't think an hour (max) in the oven would cause issues, but I'll investigate to be safe.

An hour in the oven wouldn't cause problems safety wise I don't think but the rice will be crispy on top and possibly over cooked underneath. I often do rice for dinner parties and this is what I do:

cook rice to al dente (not quite done, still a bit gritty)
rinse it well using a sieve under a cold tap to chill.
put it into the dish you plan to serve it in and refridgerate.
When you are almost ready to serve the meal reheat it in the microwave (covered). It normally takes six to seven minutes for enough rice to serve six people but all microwaves are different so do check that it's piping hot right through.
Fluff it up with a fork and take it to the table.

Pink

spankymonkey_2

couldnt you put it in a slow cooker on low with enough water for it not to dry out?

Jack's_mummy

You could always serve the chilli with something else. jacket potatoes or pitta bread springs to mind