Unique meals happen when you're too exhausted to think or have leftovers that need to be used. One time-honored method is “throw shit in the rice cooker and see what happens.” Here are some basic steps to follow, with proportions that can be used in any size rice cooker.

• Add 1 part dry rice to rice cooker, along with the amount of water recommended on the package of rice (it varies). Stir in herbs, spices, or sauces.
• Add 2 parts other ingredients, such as frozen or fresh vegetables, cooked meat or beans, or miscellaneous leftovers. Leave on top, without mixing.
• Cook according to your rice cooker's settings. Before serving, mix everything to evenly distribute ingredients.

Select strong seasonings that will tie the ingredients together; if using leftovers, add more of whatever flavored the original dish. Two harmonious non-abominations:

• Indian Rice: Turmeric, cumin seeds, salt, frozen mixed vegetables, chickpeas.
• Mexican Rice: Chili powder, powdered garlic, cumin, salt, pepper, frozen mixed vegetables, pinto beans.

If you have leftovers, see Mix & Match Frittata to recycle it one more time.

(Originally part of an unpublished dorm cooking zine I was writing in 2014.)