Steamed fish

Prep time: 3 minutes. Cook time: 12 to 15 minutes (depending on your rice cooker). Rest time: None.

The five or less things: One fish fillet, 6 to 8 ounces / 170 to 225 grams. Tilapia, cod, or salmon. Any white fish works. The fish does not care. It is already dead. It has no opinions. Half a cup / 1.25 dl of water. The water creates steam. Steam cooks the fish. Without steam, you just have a sad piece of fish sitting in a pot. A squeeze of lemon juice. From a bottle. Do not squeeze fresh lemons. Squeezing is work. Save your energy for eating. A sprinkle of garlic powder. A sprinkle of salt and pepper.

Directions:

1. Pat the fish dry with a paper towel. Dry fish gets better texture. Wet fish releases too much water. Too much water makes steamed fish watery. Watery fish is not a good look.
2. Add water to the pot. Put the fish on a plate or in the steamer basket if you have one. If not, place it right in the pot. The water should sit under the fish, not over it. Fish do not like baths. They are not cats.
3. Squeeze lemon juice over the fish. Sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. The seasoning will cling to the fish. The steam will carry the flavor. The fish will be happy. Well, as happy as a dead fish can be.
4. Close the lid. Press cook. The rice cooker will fill with steam. The steam will cook the fish until it is flaky and tender. Do not open the lid to check on it. The fish is fine.
5. When the machine stops, check the fish. It should be opaque and flaky. Poke it with a fork. If it flakes easily, it is done. If it still looks translucent, close the lid and let it sit for 3 more minutes. Nobody likes raw fish. Except sushi chefs. You are not a sushi chef.
6. Remove the fish from the pot. Place it on a plate. Try not to break it. Fish are fragile. Like your patience.
7. Serve hot. This is a light and healthy meal. It goes with rice, vegetables, or a salad. It also goes with nothing. Just you and a fork.

Note: This fish is light, flaky, and delicious. The lemon keeps it bright. The steam keeps it moist. Add fresh herbs for flavor. Add a drizzle of olive oil for richness. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat gently in the microwave. This one is perfect for healthy nights.