The Cutest Thing to Hit a Galway Kitchen? This Tiny Rice Cooker Has Arrived

Though Galway is a foodie town, it's not often we see a new food appliance launched. But that's just what has happened with Kookd by Aoifs, a new Irish kitchen brand based in Galway City.

The kitchen brand with Galway roots

Created by Aoife Cheung, the brand has launched with an impossibly cute 1.2L mini rice cooker as their very first product. "The idea for the rice cooker was inspired by my chef dad, who I truly believe is the reason I’m such a foodie today," says Aoife. "Growing up, rice was always a staple in our home, and he was constantly creating the most delicious dishes – he still does!"

How 20,000 followers sparked a product idea

In recent years Aoife started creating cooking videos on TikTok, where she has over 20,000 followers. "As my audience grew, I had an idea to create a mini convenient rice cooker that looked beautiful but was also functional," she says. "I developed my first sample and tested it for months, using it constantly in my own kitchen and featuring it in my videos. "

@lifeofaoifs how to make rice in your new KOOKD rice cooker 🤍 Link in bio to purchase yours! KOOKD is my own brand x #ricecooker #cooking #galway #irishbusiness ♬ Coffee and Quietude - Shima-san

"I love my kitchen and my home so I wanted to create something that I could proudly put on display and wouldn't have to be hidden away in the cupboard but that if it did need to be put away – it wouldn't take up much space," she adds. "It's funny because all I hear people say when they talk about cooking rice is that they hate that they have to watch over the hob and that they end up forgetting about their rice and end of burning the bottom of the pot! This solves both of these problems."

An overwhelming welcome

Launched just a few weeks ago, Aoife says that the response to Kookd has been overwhelming: "Friends and family have been so supportive, and it is so exciting to see so many people order from all parts of Ireland."

But how does she use hers? "I love experimenting with different flavours of rice at the moment. Some days, all we need is plain rice but on those other days, I love to add in different herbs, spices and flavours to see what I can create – including this beautiful lemon and herb garlic rice that is so simple yet packed with flavour. "

"I also love making noodles in the pot because I can have dumplings steaming on top in the steam tray that's included - then add in my noodles half way through - and have a delicious meal for one or two, ready to serve. "

Here, she shares her recipe for a fresh and fragrant lemon and herb garlic rice. "It's a simple dish with bright, bold flavours – perfect alongside grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or enjoyed all on its own."

Try it yourself: Aoife's lemon and herb garlic rice

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes

You'll need

2 cups rice
4 cups water
1 tbsp lemon zest (from an organic lemon, well washed)
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
3 tbsp fresh coriander, finely chopped (plus extra to garnish)
1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
1 tsp butter
A pinch of salt

Method

• Step 1. Start by rinsing your rice thoroughly under cold water until it runs clear - this helps achieve light, fluffy grains.
• Step 2. In a pot, combine the rice and water. Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, chopped coriander, and parsley, allowing the fresh citrus and herbs to infuse every grain as it cooks.
• Step 3. Cover with a lid and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook until the rice is tender and the water has been absorbed.
• Step 4. Once cooked, remove from the heat (if not using a rice cooker) and fluff the rice gently with a wooden spoon.
• Step 5. Add a pinch of salt, then stir through the butter, letting it melt and coat the rice in asubtle richness.

To serve

Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with fresh coriander and a few slices of lemon for a vibrant, zesty finish.

Photography by Anthony Shaughnessy