The Best Rice Cookers

(Left) Aroma Rice Cooker (Right) Cuckoo Electric Pressure Rice Cooker (Illustration by The Epoch Times, Amazon)

Looking for the ultimate rice cooker to ensure perfect rice every time? Well, there are many options on the market! All with their own set of features and functions to elevate your cooking style. This comprehensive guide is what you are looking for. 

You might think that a rice cooker can be different only in size, but there are many different features in each one. There are multiple popular manufacturers in the game. They offer products with different features to match your cooking needs.

When it comes to choosing the best rice cooker, you need to choose the optimum size and capacity. Check if the advanced features and menu settings match your needs and preferences.

Join us in this guide where we showcase rice cookers that not only meet but exceed customers’ expectations. We'll delve into their advanced features, menu settings, accessories, and prices, helping you explore your options and find the perfect fit for your needs.

The Breakdown:

• Zojirushi Neuro Fuzzy

• Cuckoo Rice Cooker

• Hamilton Beach Rice Cooker

• Aroma Rice Cooker

• Black+Decker Rice Cooker

• Instant Electric Rice Cooker

• Toshiba Rice Cooker

• Dash Mini Rice cooker

• Comfee' Rice cooker

Zojirushi Neuro Fuzzy Cooker

Zojirushi NS-ZCC10 Neuro Fuzzy Cooker

The Zojirushi NS-ZCC10 Neuro Fuzzy rice cooker and warmer is a top-rated and versatile kitchen appliance. It offers numerous features to help you prepare delicious rice meals.

It is designed for cooking rice to perfection using advanced Neuro Fuzzy logic technology.

When you want to have customized cooked rice, you need multi-menu selections to have the best outcome. The Zojirushi NS-ZCC10 Neuro Fuzzy rice cooker comes in 5.5-cup and 10-cup sizes and has multiple options on the menu. 

Automatic keep-warm, extended keep-warm, and reheat cycles are your options for the time you need to warm up your frozen or cooked rice. 

Similar to many competitors, you can utilize its spherical, nonstick inner pan to ensure even heating throughout all parts of the rice inside the cooker.

Customer reviews on the Zojirushi Neuro Fuzzy Cooker make it seem to be one of the best rice cookers for your kitchen. Buyers rate it as an easy-to-clean, easy-to-use, and versatile option, with a 4.7 rating for its features.

Features

• Advanced Technology: It utilizes the Neuro Fuzzy Logic technology. It can adjust the cooking parameters to cook the rice perfectly the way you prefer every time. This technology lets the rice cooker ’think' for itself and make fine adjustments to temperature level and heating time.
• Versatile Menu Settings: types of rice and dishes. For example: white (regular/sushi), mixed, porridge, sweet, brown, rinse-free, and quick cooking. This versatility makes everything easier for cooking rice in different cooking styles.
• Convenience Features: This rice cooker comes with an LCD clock and timer to make your cooking time more accurate. Also, there is a spherical nonstick inner pan for uniform heating and a retractable power cord. 

Additionally, it has automatic keep-warm, extended keep-warm, and reheat cycles. When you are cooking, you might need to keep the rice at the perfect temperature until you’re ready to serve.

• Accessories: The cooker comes with 2 measuring cups, a nonstick rice spoon/scooper, a rice spoon holder, and recipes. These accessories help you measure the rice accurately and serve it easily.

$242.99 at Amazon (Price at Time of Publishing)

Pros

• Advanced Neuro Fuzzy Logic Technology: It automatically adjusts cooking time and temperature for the best results. This can ensure perfectly cooked rice every time.
• Versatile Cooking Options: Offers a wide range of menu settings for different rice types and dishes, including white, brown, sushi, porridge, and more, catering to diverse culinary styles.
• User-Friendly Features: Equipped with an LCD clock and timer, automatic keep-warm, extended keep-warm, and reheating cycles, plus a retractable cord for convenience and ease of use.
• High Customer Satisfaction: High ratings for ease of cleaning, ease of use, and versatility, with a 4.8 out of 5-star rating on Amazon based on over 10,895 reviews.
• Quality Accessories Included: Comes with 2 measuring cups, a nonstick rice spoon/scooper, a rice spoon holder, and recipes, providing everything needed to start cooking right away.
• Easy to Clean: Detachable and washable inner lid, nonstick inner cooking pan, and easy-to-read LCD control panel simplify the cleaning process.

Cons

• Higher Price Point: Compared to basic rice cookers, the Zojirushi NS-ZCC10 is more expensive, which might be a consideration for you if you are on a budget.
• Longer Cooking Times: Some users have noted that cooking times can be longer than with simpler rice cookers, particularly for certain rice types and settings.
• Designed for US Electrical Standards: Initially designed for 120 volts / 680 watts (US standards), it requires an adapter or converter for international use.
• Limited Warranty: Offers a 1-year limited warranty, which some might find insufficient given the investment.

Cuckoo Electric Pressure Rice Cooker

Cuckoo Electric Pressure Rice Cooker

The Cuckoo CRP-P1009SW is another perfect rice cooker for your kitchen. You can count on it for a wide range of cooking needs, particularly for cooking rice and grains. 

Here’s an overview of its features, along with the pros and cons, to help you find your best option. Read carefully to see if it is the best rice cooker.

Features

• Capacity: Cuckoo is 5 Quarts (10 cups uncooked rice, yielding up to 20 cups cooked rice). It is suitable for large families, gatherings, and parties.
• Dimensions: It is 11.6“D x 15.6” W x 11.5"H. This size makes it fit well in most kitchens.
• Power Source: Corded Electric, with a wattage of 1150 watts for efficient cooking.
• Menu Options: It features 12 built-in programs for cooking various types of rice (glutinous, mixed, brown, and GABA rice).
• Fuzzy Logic Technology: Automatically adjusts cooking temperature and time for perfect results.
• Safety Features: It has a safe steam release, overheating alarm, and pressure control for a safe cooking experience.
• Quality: Stainless steel X-Wall inner pot with nonstick diamond coating for even heat distribution, scratch resistance, and easy cleaning.
• Additional Features: LED display, simple touch controls, preset timer, auto-clean function, and voice guidance in multiple languages.

$351.05 at Amazon (Price at Time of Publishing)

Pros

• Versatile Cooking: Can cook a variety of rice types and other dishes with its multi-functional settings.
• Quality Manufacturing: The stainless steel inner pot ensures even cooking for all parts of the food and durability in long-term use.
• Safety Features: Designed with multiple safety features for worry-free use.
• Efficient and Smart: Fuzzy Logic technology and efficient power usage help with perfectly cooked meals.
• Easy to Clean: Nonstick pot and auto-clean function simplify the cleaning process.

Cons

• Price: May be considered expensive compared to basic rice cookers.
• Complexity: The wide range of functions might overwhelm users looking for a simple rice cooker.
• Power Requirements: Designed for use in the US; international users may need an adapter or converter.

Hamilton Rice Cooker

Hamilton Beach Digital Programmable Rice Cooker

The Hamilton Beach digital programmable rice cooker & food steamer (Model 37548) is designed to simplify cooking. It can help you handle everything from rice and grains to steamed vegetables and seafood. 

Not all rice cookers have a steam basket, but this one adds different functionalities. You can consider it a great option for multiple features and use cases. 

Here’s a detailed overview of its features, along with the advantages and disadvantages to help you decide on what you need for your kitchen.

Features

• Capacity: Can cook 14 cups of cooked rice (7 cups uncooked). It seems to be a great option for both small and large families.
• Versatile Cooking Options: It offers pre-programmed settings for white rice, quick rice, whole grain, heat/simmer, steam cook, and hot cereals. You can count on it as a multifunctional kitchen appliance.
• 2-in-1 Rice Rinser/Steam Basket: The steam basket also serves as a rice rinser. Forget about the hassle of rinsing rice before cooking.
• One-Pot Cooking: Allows for steaming seafood, poultry, or vegetables while rice cooks below, or using the heat/simmer setting for soups, beans, or pasta mixes.
• Delayed Start: Features a delay start up to 11 hours. Your favorite meal can be planned and you can have them ready when needed.
• Keep Warm Function: Automatically shifts to a warm setting after cooking is completed to keep food at the right temperature until it’s time to serve.
• Ease of Cleaning: The nonstick pot is dishwasher safe. Put the pot in the dishwasher and make the cleanup time straightforward.

$59.99 at Amazon (Price at Time of Publishing)

Pros

• Multi-functionality: This rice cooker is versatile enough to cook rice, steam vegetables, and make hot cereals, among other dishes.
• Convenience: Preprogrammed settings and the Delay Start feature make meal prep easier and more convenient for users who need special timing for their kitchen time.
• Family-Friendly: Large capacity suits both small and large gatherings. No one goes hungry with the Hamilton rice cooker.
• Easy to Use: Simple to operate with digital controls and clear settings.
• Easy to Clean: Dishwasher-safe pot and removable parts make cleaning hassle-free.

Cons

• Size: Its large capacity might take up significant counter space, which could be a drawback in smaller kitchens.
• Lid Cleaning: Some customer reviews are saying that cleaning the lid is a bit not easy.
• Timer Function Limitation: The timer function has a lower rating. It seems that it may not meet all users’ expectations for cooking times.
• Cup size: Some users complained about the size of the cup. It seems to be smaller than regular cups and may confuse you when cooking.
• Rice Quality: While it does an excellent job for most, results can vary depending on the type of rice or grain used. Some users may prefer traditional cooking methods for certain dishes.

Aroma Rice Cooker

Aroma Rice Cooker

The Aroma rice cooker is a compact and convenient kitchen appliance. It is designed for small to medium-sized households or individuals. Aroma is a straightforward rice cooker with effective features and options to help you make a delicious meal. 

This affordable rice cooker meets a variety of your needs in the kitchen. Let’s learn more about its features, pros, and cons:

Features

• Capacity: Prepares 2 to 6 cups of any variety of cooked rice. Consider it one of the best rice cookers for singles, couples, or small families.
• One-Touch Operation: It has a simple cooking process with a single touch, featuring automatic keep-warm functionality.
• Versatility: Besides rice, it’s capable of making soups, jambalaya, chili, and more. 
• Viewing Lid: Equipped with a glass lid that allows you to witness the cooking process. You can do it without opening the cooker and letting the steam go away.
• Accessories Included: It comes with a rice measuring cup and a serving spatula.

$19.68 at Amazon (Price at Time of Publishing)

Pros

• Simplicity and Convenience: Offers straightforward operation with a single button. Don’t worry if you are not into cooking, it makes everything easy.
• Versatile Cooking: Capable of cooking more than just rice, which is great if you need a multifunctional cook ricer.
• Compact Size: Its small footprint makes it ideal for kitchens with limited space.
• Easy Maintenance: The non-stick pot and accessories are easy to clean. You can save your time and effort after cooking.
• Affordability: This one is priced competitively. If you are on a budget, it provides good value for money.

Cons

• Limited Capacity: While perfect for smaller servings, it might not be a good fit for larger families or gatherings.
• Basic Features: Lacks advanced features such as different rice cooking modes or textures.
• No Delay Timer: Does not have a delay start feature, which could be a drawback for those who prefer to set their rice cooker ahead of time.
• Single Button Operation: While convenient, the lack of multiple settings may limit control over the cooking process for some users who want customized results in cooking.

Black+Decker Rice Cooker

BLACK+DECKER Rice Cooker

The Black+Decker rice cooker has a removable non-stick bowl. This rice cooker is a compact and efficient kitchen appliance. Black+Decker is a popular option for a simple rice cooking experience. 

The good news is that it offers the flexibility to steam vegetables, fish, and more. This model is recognized by Amazon’s Choice in the rice cookers category and many customers have favored it for its easy operation. 

Here’s a breakdown of the key features, pros, and cons for a more informed decision on choosing the best rice cooker:

Features

• 6-Cup Capacity: It can prepare 1 to 6 cups of cooked rice. This capacity is ideal for individuals, couples, or small families who need small to medium meals.
• Automatic Keep Warm: Automatically switches to keep warm function after cooking.
• Nonstick Rice Pot: The removable nonstick pot is for easy food release and quick cleanup.
• Food Steaming Basket: It comes with a steaming basket. The basket allows for healthy meal preparations beyond rice, such as steamed vegetables or fish.
• Accessories Included: Just like many others, it comes with a measuring cup and plastic serving spoon in the packaging.
• Compact Design: With dimensions of 10 x 9.0 x 5.5 inches, It is a very good fit for many kitchens and counters where free space matters.

$25.45 at Amazon (Price at Time of Publishing)

Pros

• Versatility: Beyond cooking rice, its ability to steam food makes it a versatile kitchen tool for preparing a variety of healthy meals.
• Ease of Use: Simple operation with a one-touch feature and automatic transition to keep warm mode eliminates the need for constant monitoring.
• Easy to Clean: The removable nonstick pot and steaming basket are dishwasher safe, making cleanup a breeze.
• Value for Money: Offers great functionality at an affordable price point, providing excellent value.
• Compact and Portable: Ideal for small kitchens, dorms, or RVs, and easy to store when not in use.

Cons

• Capacity Limitations: While perfect for small to medium-sized servings, you can’t rely on it for larger families or gatherings.
• Basic Features: Lacks advanced functions that are available in more expensive models.
• Electrical Compatibility: Designed for use with 120V outlets, international users may need an adapter or converter.

Instant Electric Pressure Cooker, Slow Cooker, Rice Cooker

Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker

The Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 electric pressure cooker is another solution for your rice cooking challenges. Surprisingly, it brings seven functions into one device. 

If you need multiple functions from your rice cooker, this one can make you happy. You can use it as a pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, steamer, sauté pan, yogurt maker, or warmer. This model, particularly the 6 Quart size, is suitable for cooking for up to six people. 

So your next gathering can go much smoother using this rice cooker. It features 13 customizable smart programs for pressure-cooking ribs, soups, beans, rice, desserts, and more. These many options come in a single product available on Amazon.

Features

• 7-in-1 Functionality: Offers versatility in the kitchen and easily replaces other appliances you need.
• One-Touch Cooking: It has a simple interface and makes cooking easy with 13 Smart Programs.
• Safety Features: Equipped with over 10 safety features, including overheat protection and a safe-locking lid.
• Companion App: Includes access to the Instant Brands Connect app to give you cooking ideas and new recipes.

$99.95 at Amazon (Price at Time of Publishing)

Pros

• Versatile and replaces multiple kitchen appliances
• Saves your time with fast-pressure cooking and many other functions
• Suitable for cooking single servings and meals for families
• Strong safety features for peace of mind when using

Cons

• The initial learning curve for users new to pressure cooking
• Requires countertop space

Toshiba Rice Cooker

TOSHIBA Rice Cooker

The Toshiba rice cooker small 3 cup features an LCD with 8 cooking functions and takes advantage of Fuzzy Logic technology. 

This rice cooker offers a 24-hour delay timer and an auto-keep-warm to let it do what needs your attention. Also, your rice will never stick with its non-stick inner pot. 

Toshiba rice cooker is not limited to just rice; it can cook a variety of dishes, including soups, stews, oatmeal, cakes, and more. If you are a beginner chef, it is a good option to use and learn more about it. 

The cooker can handle different types of rice and grains, such as brown rice, jasmine rice, sushi rice, white rice, basmati rice, and wild rice. Keep reading for detailed information:

Features

• Capacity: 3 Cups (uncooked), ideal for small families or individuals.
• Fuzzy Logic Technology: Adjusts temperature and cooking time for better meals.
• 8 Cooking Functions: Includes settings for white rice, quick cook, brown rice, mixed grain, slow cook, porridge, cake, and egg.
• Easy to Use: This cooker features a large LCD for an easy experience.
• Safety Features: Detachable power cord, lid lock during cooking, thermal fuse to prevent overheating, and automatic shut-off.

$89.99 at Amazon (Price at Time of Publishing)

Pros

• Versatile cooking options beyond rice
• Simple controls and easy programming
• Fuzzy Logic Technology and Perfect Cooking

Cons

• Non-stick inner pot not recommended for dishwasher
• 3 Cup capacity might be small for larger gatherings
• No water collection receptacle which means water pools inside the rice cooker

Dash Mini Rice Cooker 

Dash Mini Rice Cooker

The Dash Mini rice cooker steamer is a compact kitchen appliance for small households and individuals. If you are living in a place with limited kitchen space, then this is your thing.

It’s particularly suited for dorms, apartments, or use in an RV/camper. Dash Mini is a budget-friendly option for cooking rice. 

Customer reviews show that it is a good option for making soups, stews, grains, and oatmeal. The appliance comes in a variety of colors, including Aqua, making it a stylish addition to any kitchen decor. 

It would be better to know about the different aspects of a product before you make your decision. Let’s dive into the features of Dash Mini to figure out if it is the best rice cooker.

Features

• Capacity: 2 Cups, perfect for single servings or small side dishes.
• Dimensions: 6.5“D x 8.5”W x 6.3"H, making it compact and easy to store.
• Keep Warm Function: Includes a keep warm function and indicator light for overcooking.
• Portable and Compact: Ideal for small living spaces and portable for travel.
• Accessories: A mixing paddle, measuring cup, removable pot with nonstick coating, and recipe book.

$21.95 at Amazon (Price at Time of Publishing)

Pros

• Versatility: It can cook a variety of meals beyond rice.
• Ease of Use: It is popular for a simple operation with a single cook button and minimal prep time.
• Compact Design: The design is space-saving and portable, perfect for small kitchens and on-the-go cooking.
• Affordable: It is a budget-friendly choice for those looking for a multi-functional cooker without a high price tag.

Cons

• Small Capacity: This may not be suitable for larger meals or families.
• Manual Cleaning: The nonstick pot is suitable for hand washing only, so you can’t delegate cleaning to the dishwasher.
• US Voltage Compatibility: Designed for use with 110 volts, and requires an adapter for international use.

Comfee' Rice Cooker

Comfee' Rice Cooker

The Comfee' rice cooker is a 6-in-1 stainless steel multi-cooker. As one of the best rice cookers in the market, it is a solution for various cooking needs and a great fit for different culinary styles. 

This multi-functional appliance is designed for small to medium-sized meals. Individuals or small families can benefit from its versatility and user-friendly features. 

Comfee’s rice cooker is available in a basic version that can handle 4 cups of uncooked rice, yielding up to 8 cups of cooked rice.

Features

• Multifunctional Use: This rice cooker includes six digital cooking programs. For example: white rice, brown rice, steamed, slow cook, quinoa, and oatmeal.
• Compact Capacity: With an 8-cup cooked (2 Qt) capacity, it suits smaller meals or sides, perfect for those with limited space.
• User-Friendly: The device features a digital panel and LED display, making operation straightforward with 6 One-Touch Programs. It also automatically switches to keep warm for 12 hours, and a 12-hour delay timer supports flexible meal planning.
• Easy to Clean: The stainless steel exterior and non-stick-coated inner pot make cleaning effortless. Additionally, the pot and accessories are dishwasher safe.
• Safety Features: Includes built-in overheating protection and is made of BPA-Free Food Grade Material. The cool-touch handle ensures safety when opening.

$39.99 at Amazon (Price at Time of Publishing)

Pros

• Versatility in Cooking: Other than rice, it can steam vegetables, slow-cook stews, and make oatmeal.
• Space-Saving Design: For those who prefer a minimalist approach, this compact rice cooker is an ideal option.
• Ease of Cleaning: Dishwasher-safe components and a non-stick pot simplify post-cooking cleanup.
• Safety Considerations: Designed with user safety in mind, featuring overheating protection and cool-touch handles.

Cons

• Limited Capacity: While perfect for small to medium servings, it might not be suitable for larger families or gatherings.
• Used Condition: Being sold by Amazon Warehouse, condition and longevity could vary compared to a new product.

Rice Cooker Reviews

Zojirushi Neuro Fuzzy

Customers like the performance of Zojirushi Neuro Fuzzy. They admire the value, ease of cleaning, and use of the rice cooker. 

They say that the rice comes out perfect every time, it’s well worth the money, and the top/lid easily comes off to make cleaning easier.

Cuckoo

Customers like the quality and appearance of the Cuckoo rice cooker. For example, they say it’s well-made and makes yummy rice. 

It seems that the customers are also impressed with the performance and ease of cleaning. Also, some complained about the color and loved the minimal design.

Hamilton Beach

Hamilton customer reviews are all about ease of use and consistent results. They believe that this product is cute and stylish to use on the kitchen counter. Some didn’t feel comfortable with the lid when it came to washing.

Users have cooked multiple meals with Hamilton and felt good about the result. Breakfast cereal, eggs, and vegetables are some other things you can cook and steam in the Hamilton Beach rice cooker.

Aroma

The Aroma rice cooker is considered a good option with effortless operation and a user-friendly design. Customer reviews say that their rice is cooked right and well every time, and the heat spreads around the pot evenly.

Some have reported that Aroma is easy to move around the kitchen, but the cord is not long enough. All in all, it is a favored option among many others.

Black+Decker

Customers say that Black+Decker is fast and easy to use. Cleaning the pot and lid is very simple and it works hassle-free. Some customers mentioned that it is petite, classy, and always delivers a stunning performance!

There are comments about the real capacity of this rice cooker. They believe that the measuring cup is not the regular size, which makes it difficult to calculate the amount of rice.

Instant Pot

Customers who bought the Instant Pot loved the size and reported that it was perfect to cook for two people. It doesn’t take up much counter space and works fast. 

Some say that the virtual demo given by Nitesh from Instant Brands has helped them a lot and made it so interesting to use the product. 

Many reviews are after 6 months or 1 year of experience cooking with the Instant Pot, and they mention that it still works perfectly and does the job. Durability and speed are the two main characteristics of this product.

Toshiba Mini Rice Cooker

Toshiba is a favorite rice cooker for its users. They are happy with the quality of the results and say that the texture and moisture are perfect every time. It doesn’t take up much space and looks good in the kitchen. 

Small families liked the capacity and the programmable functions of Toshiba. It is easy to use and well worth the money, customers said.

Dash Mini Rice Cooker

The Dash Mini rice cooker is described as cute, easy to store, simple to use, and a breeze to clean. It has been said that the user experience is so straightforward. The instructions that come with the product are useful and lead to a perfect and uniform result.

Good performance, quality, size, and versatility are highly repeated points about this rice cooker. Users find it affordable with high value for money.

Comfee’ Rice Cooker

The Comfee’ rice cooker has a well-made and solid inner pot. The rice cooks evenly and doesn’t stick at all. Reviews say that the functions are perfect and the design is satisfying. 

The buttons are a bit hard to press, and you need to hold the handle before you can press the buttons. Otherwise, the rice cooker moves around.

FAQ

Are Rice Cookers Worth It?

In short, yes! Rice cookers are considered a reasonable and logical investment for those who want to have a nice time cooking. Many users report their satisfaction with the rice cookers, as they make it easier to cook and keep meals warm. 

They are worth it because you can have an even and consistent rice meal with their uniform heating technology. Also, it is so easy to use them for cooking rice. So the convenience of use adds to the value you are getting from the rice cookers.

Don’t forget that versatility is a game-changer here too! The multiple functions are there to take your experience to the next level. Think about the stew soups and vegetables you can steam easily.

Time and space are big matters to many people. Rice cookers are designed in a way that you can save time when cooking and let you design your kitchen based on your interests. 

These products are small to medium and fit many kitchens. So you can consider it as a valuable product to invest in.

Is Cooking in a Rice Cooker Healthy?

Cooking in a rice cooker is healthy for several reasons. The procedure is simple and effective. A healthy cooking style is when the nutritional values stay in the food and no harmful additions are added to the meal. That’s how rice cookers work. 

Consistent cooking prevents overcooking and undercooking. In this way, your meal is prepared based on the standards of healthy cooking. Also, a steamy system ensures that your ingredients are cooked in the healthiest way of cooking. 

How Do You Use a Rice Cooker?

It can be the simplest method for cooking rice. The convenience of use is a built-in feature for all rice cookers. Here is a simple guide to getting the best results and the best meal you want.

​​1. Measure the Rice

Check out the package and box for the rice cooker. You will find a cup to measure the amount of rice or grains you want to cook. Don’t forget that the standard U.S. measuring cup is typically bigger than the one that comes with your rice cooker. 

2. Soak the Rice

The second step is to soak the rice in cold water. This helps with the results and perfect cooking. White rice, in particular, needs a 45-minute rinsing time. Add some salt to the rice, and don’t forget to wash them before you want to cook them. 

Otherwise, the meal is going to be very salty. You can soak the rice for up to 4 hours, and it will improve the texture of your meal.

3. Add Water

Add water to the rice and cooking pot. Depending on the type of rice you need, you can vary the amount of water. In general, a 1:1 water-to-rice ratio for white rice is recommended. 

Every recipe has its own specifications, so make sure you check the instructions for your desired meal. Read the rice cooker instructions in the packaging.

4. Place the Pot in the Rice Cooker

Put the washed rice and the pot into the rice cooker. Make sure the pot is in full contact with the heating element. The exterior of the pot should be dry and clean. This is the easiest part of it!

5. Turn On the Rice Cooker

When you close the lid, it is time to turn on the rice cooker. It is so simple that you might find a button in a simple interface with “Start” written on it. 

Or, there is a “Cook” button that starts the cooking process. Some models have different settings for different types of rice or cooking models. Press the button and wait.

6. Wait for It to Cook

Being cooked for rice has many meanings! Every cooking style has a different way of cooking rice. Depending on the meal you are preparing, you need different timing. Your rice cooker will cook your rice automatically, and it takes 15 to 45 minutes. 

After that, it switches to a “Keep Warm” mode once the rice is cooked. But you can customize the timing to have a soft rice meal or a more cooked version of it.

Is Using a Rice Cooker Better than Boiling?

Rice cookers do have their advantages over boiling methods. That’s why many prefer to have their rice cooked in a rice cooker. But the question is the reasons why rice cookers have so many fans. Here’s why:

• Even Cooking: Rice cookers cook the rice evenly. It causes a uniform meal with no overcooked areas.
• Perfect Texture: Precise temperature control and timing of rice cookers make it easy for you to have your desired texture. Whether you want it fluffy, soft, or firm.
• Convenience of Use: You don’t need to monitor the rice cooker! It automatically cooks your rice and keeps it warm when the process is done. So rice cookers are simple to use.
• Multiple Functions: Many rice cookers come with different functions than cooking rice. There are versatile options for rice cookers. For example: steaming vegetables, making stews and soups, and cooking different grains

Why Does Rice Taste Different in a Rice Cooker?

When you cook your rice in a rice cooker, the cooking environment is optimal. Rice cookers have a perfect balance of heat and moisture. This is what makes your rice taste different. The lid also prevents steam from scraping the pot, and your rice is in the best situation to cook gently.

There are other factors that result in a different taste than when you use cooking pots and boiling methods. A cooking pot may distribute the heat unevenly and burn some parts of the rice. On the other hand, rice cookers switch to “Keep Warm” mode and avoid overcooking.

Does Rice Cooker Use a Lot of Electricity?

Rice cookers are known as energy-efficient kitchen appliances. When comparing them with cooking rice on a stove, it is cheaper to go for a rice cooker. They range from about 300 watts to 1000 watts for advanced models with new technologies.

A normal 500-watt rice cooker will consume 0.25kWh. In a 30-minute cooking cycle. If you know your local electricity cost, you can multiply the kWh by that rate and calculate the cost per use. Cooking on a stove takes more time, and naturally, it costs more than rice cookers.

What Happens If You Don’t Wash Rice Before the Rice Cooker?

If you want a fluffy rice meal, you should wash them before cooking in the rice cooker. Rice grains are coated in surface starch. If you don’t rinse them off, this will end with a gummier rice meal. 

Debris and contaminants from the harvesting and packaging process can cause a sticky rice texture. Therefore, it is highly recommended to wash the rice before you cook it in any way.

Do I Need to Soak Rice for Rice Cooker?

Soaking rice in cold water gives it a soft texture and reduces cooking time. Whether you need to soak the rice depends on the type of rice you are using. White rice can be cooked with a simple rinsing. 

But brown rice needs to rest in water for at least 30 minutes.

Basmati and jasmine rice also benefit from a 3-minute soak for fluffier rice as a result. It is a good idea to follow the instructions in the recipe for your meal.

Should I Get an Electric or Gas Rice Cooker?

Before deciding on this question, think about your cooking needs. If you are looking for an appliance for your kitchen that helps you have the perfect rice meal, then an electric rice cooker is what you need. 

But if you need your rice cooker in your big kitchen for professional use, you will need a gas rice cooker.

Electric rice cookers are useful for small kitchens and those who want an in-house cooking time. On the other hand, gas rice cookers are more suitable for professional chefs who cook rice all day long.

Read this guide and choose the best rice cooker that fits your needs. Read the customer reviews and try to make the best decision based on the users’ experiences. 

Conclusion

There is no best rice cooker for you if you don’t know your needs and cooking requirements. It is best to set your expectations and then look for the best rice cooker. You can check and compare the features of the rice cookers in our list and read about the pros and cons of each of them. 

After analyzing the advantages and disadvantages of all the rice cookers on the list, we selected three of the best. 

It seems that the Zojirushi Neuro Fuzzy Cooker, Instant Electric Rice Cooker, and Toshiba are the best rice cookers among the others in the guide. They come in different prices and can meet all your needs. Zojirushi and Instant rice cookers are perfect for those with no budget concerns. 

They have multiple functions and can easily replace the other appliances. On the other hand, Toshiba is a more budget-friendly and functional option for your day-to-day cooking needs.

Read the rice cooker reviews carefully and see if other customers have complained about their features and functions. All the brands we mentioned in this article are perfect, but you need to choose based on your budget and culinary needs.