The electric rice cooker/food steamer offers one of the easiest, least fussy ways to reduce fat and calories in your diet. That's because steam cooks food simply sealing in flavor and juices, without any need for added butter or oil. And it works best with naturally lean foods, such as chicken, seafood, and, of course, vegetables. In addition, the simplicity of the machine and its cooking technique means little preparation and only one pot to clean.
Marge Poore has taught Mexican cooking for two decades and has led culinary tours to Mexico for 30 years. She is the author of five cookbooks, including 365 Mexican Recipes, The Best Stove-Top Grill Pan Cookbook Ever, and The Complete Chicken Breast Cookbook. She lives in Novato, California.