Olivia Carter
If you’re tired of spending hours slaving over a hot stove to make the perfect pot of rice, it might be time to invest in a rice cooker. Not only do these handy appliances take the hassle out of cooking rice, but they also ensure that you get perfect results every time. Whether you’re a busy professional in need of a quick and easy dinner option or a passionate home cook looking to expand your culinary horizons, a rice cooker is a must-have kitchen gadget.
When it comes to choosing the best rice cooker for everyday use, there are a few key factors to consider. Firstly, capacity. You’ll want to think about how much rice you typically cook and choose a rice cooker that can accommodate that amount. Many rice cookers come in different sizes, ranging from small models that can cook up to 3 cups of rice, to larger ones that can handle up to 10 cups.
In addition to capacity, it’s important to consider the features offered by different rice cookers. Some models come with advanced features like a delay start timer, which allows you to set your rice to cook automatically at a later time. This can be a handy feature if you want to come home to freshly cooked rice at the end of a long day. Other features to look out for include a keep warm function, a steaming tray for cooking vegetables or fish alongside your rice, and a non-stick inner pot for easy cleaning.
To help you make an informed decision, we’ve rounded up some of the best rice cookers for everyday use on the market. These cookers have been praised for their performance, durability, and functionality. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a large family, there’s a rice cooker on this list that’s sure to meet your needs and make your cooking experience a whole lot easier.
What to Consider Before Buying a Rice Cooker
When it comes to choosing the right rice cooker for everyday use, there are several factors to consider. These factors will help you make an informed decision and ensure that you purchase a rice cooker that meets your specific needs and preferences.
Cooking Capacity: One of the first things to consider is the cooking capacity of the rice cooker. Think about how much rice you typically cook on a regular basis and choose a cooker that can accommodate that amount. It’s important to select a cooker that can cook enough rice to feed your household without being too large or too small.
Cooking Functions: Different rice cookers offer different cooking functions, so it’s important to think about what features you need. Some cookers offer basic rice cooking functions, while others have additional features like steam, slow cooking, or porridge settings. Consider the types of dishes you like to cook and choose a rice cooker that offers the functions you need.
- Timer and Delay Start: Some rice cookers have a timer or delay start function, which allows you to set the cooking time in advance. This can be convenient if you want to come home to freshly cooked rice or if you want to have rice ready for breakfast in the morning. If this is important to you, look for a rice cooker with this feature.
- Easy to Clean: Rice cookers can be a hassle to clean, so it’s worth considering how easy a cooker is to clean before making a purchase. Look for a cooker with a removable inner pot that is dishwasher safe for easier cleaning.
- Size and Storage: Rice cookers come in different sizes and shapes, so it’s important to think about the available space in your kitchen and how the cooker will fit in. Consider the size and storage options of the rice cooker to ensure it will be convenient for everyday use.
Taking these factors into account before buying a rice cooker will help you choose the best appliance for your needs and ensure that you can enjoy perfectly cooked rice every time.
Top Features to Look for in a Rice Cooker
When choosing a rice cooker for everyday use, there are several key features to consider that can make a significant difference in the cooking process and the quality of the rice. These features can help ensure that you get perfectly cooked rice every time, without any hassle or guesswork.
1. Capacity:
One of the most important considerations when selecting a rice cooker is its capacity. You’ll want to choose a rice cooker that matches your household’s rice consumption needs. Rice cookers come in various sizes, typically measured in cups of uncooked rice. Consider the number of people you typically cook for and any potential future needs, to ensure the rice cooker’s capacity is sufficient.
2. Programmable Settings:
A rice cooker with programmable settings provides greater versatility and convenience. Look for a cooker that offers options for different types of rice, such as white, brown, sushi, or wild rice. Additionally, having a delay start function can be handy if you want to have rice ready at a specific time.
3. Keep Warm Function:
A rice cooker with a keep warm function can be a valuable feature, especially if you’re not ready to serve the rice immediately. This function keeps the cooked rice warm for an extended period, ensuring it stays at an optimal temperature without drying out or losing texture.
4. Non-Stick Inner Pot:
Having a non-stick inner pot makes it easier to clean the rice cooker after use. It also helps prevent rice from sticking and burning during the cooking process, resulting in evenly cooked rice and easier serving.
5. Steaming Tray:
If you’re looking for a versatile rice cooker, consider one that comes with a steaming tray. This feature allows you to steam vegetables, fish, or other foods while the rice cooks below, making it a convenient option for preparing complete meals.
By considering these top features when choosing a rice cooker for everyday use, you can ensure that you invest in a reliable and efficient appliance that will consistently deliver perfectly cooked rice with minimal effort.
The Best Rice Cookers for Small Families
When it comes to cooking rice, having the right rice cooker can make all the difference. For small families, finding a rice cooker that is the perfect size and has the right features is crucial. Here are some of the best rice cookers for small families.
1. Zojirushi NS-LGC05XB Micom Rice Cooker
The Zojirushi NS-LGC05XB Micom Rice Cooker is a compact and efficient option for small families. It has a small capacity of 3 cups of uncooked rice, which is perfect for small servings. The advanced fuzzy logic technology ensures perfectly cooked rice every time, with adjustable settings for different types of rice. It also has a delay timer and a keep warm function, making it convenient for busy families.
2. Instant Pot Duo Mini 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker
The Instant Pot Duo Mini 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker is not only a rice cooker but a versatile kitchen appliance that can handle various cooking tasks. It has a 3-quart capacity, which is ideal for small families. In addition to cooking rice, it can also sauté, steam, slow cook, and make yogurt. It has a user-friendly interface with easy-to-use controls and a programmable timer. Its compact size makes it suitable for small kitchens.
3. Hamilton Beach Digital Programmable Rice Cooker
The Hamilton Beach Digital Programmable Rice Cooker is a budget-friendly option for small families. It has a 4-cup capacity, which is sufficient for small servings. It features a simple one-touch operation and a digital display with programmable functions. It also has a delay start and a keep warm function, allowing for flexible meal planning. The non-stick inner pot is removable and dishwasher-safe, making it easy to clean.
Choosing the right rice cooker for your small family can make cooking rice a breeze. Consider the capacity, features, and budget to find the perfect rice cooker that suits your needs.
The Best Rice Cookers for Large Families
When you have a large family, finding the right rice cooker can be a challenge. You need a cooker that can handle cooking large quantities of rice without sacrificing quality. Fortunately, there are several options available that are well-suited for large families.
One of the top choices for large families is the Zojirushi NS-ZCC10 Rice Cooker. This cooker has a large capacity of up to 5.5 cups of uncooked rice, which can easily feed a crowd. It also features advanced technology that ensures perfect rice every time, with settings for different types of rice and a keep-warm function that keeps the rice at the perfect temperature until you’re ready to serve.
If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, the Aroma Housewares ARC-150SB Rice Cooker is another great choice. This cooker can cook up to 20 cups of cooked rice, making it ideal for large families or gatherings. It has a user-friendly design with digital controls and a programmable timer, so you can set it up in the morning and have perfectly cooked rice waiting for you when you get home.
Summary:
- The Zojirushi NS-ZCC10 Rice Cooker is a top choice for large families with its large capacity and advanced technology.
- The Aroma Housewares ARC-150SB Rice Cooker is a more budget-friendly option that can cook up to 20 cups of cooked rice.
Whether you’re cooking for a large family or hosting a gathering, these rice cookers are sure to meet your needs. With their large capacities and advanced features, you can easily cook delicious rice for everyone without any hassle. So, choose the best rice cooker for your large family and enjoy perfectly cooked rice every time!
Budget-Friendly Rice Cookers That Don’t Compromise on Quality
When it comes to finding a rice cooker that fits your everyday needs without breaking the bank, there are several budget-friendly options available. These rice cookers offer great value for money while still delivering high-quality results.
1. Hamilton Beach Rice Cooker: This affordable rice cooker comes with a non-stick pot and a steam basket that allows you to cook rice and vegetables simultaneously. It has a capacity of up to 7 cups of cooked rice, making it suitable for small to medium-sized families. The Hamilton Beach Rice Cooker also features a keep-warm function to ensure your rice stays warm and ready to serve.
2. Aroma Housewares Rice Cooker: The Aroma Housewares Rice Cooker is another budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on quality. It is equipped with a one-touch operation, making it easy to use even for beginners. This rice cooker has a capacity of up to 6 cups of cooked rice and comes with a steam tray for versatile cooking options. It also offers a programmable delay timer, allowing you to set it in advance and have perfectly cooked rice ready when you need it.
- 3. BLACK+DECKER Rice Cooker: The BLACK+DECKER Rice Cooker is a reliable and affordable option that delivers consistent results. It has a capacity of up to 6 cups of cooked rice and comes with a removable non-stick bowl for easy cleaning. This rice cooker also features a built-in lid holder, so you don’t have to worry about where to place the lid while serving. Additionally, it has an automatic keep-warm function to keep your rice hot and fresh.
These budget-friendly rice cookers offer a great balance between cost and quality. They are perfect for everyday use and can help you prepare delicious rice dishes without breaking your budget. With their user-friendly features and reliable performance, you can enjoy perfectly cooked rice with minimal effort.
Innovative Rice Cookers with Advanced Technology
In today’s fast-paced world, convenience is key. With the advancements in technology, rice cookers have taken a leap forward in terms of innovation and functionality. These modern appliances are designed to make your everyday cooking experience easier and more enjoyable.
Gone are the days of standing over a stove, constantly monitoring the rice to ensure it doesn’t burn or stick to the pot. With the latest rice cookers, you can simply set it and forget it. These cookers are equipped with advanced sensors and timers that automatically adjust the cooking time and temperature to ensure perfectly cooked rice every time.
- Smart Features: One of the most notable advancements in rice cooker technology is the introduction of smart features. Many models now come with built-in Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing you to control and monitor the cooking process remotely through a smartphone app. This means you can start cooking your rice from your office or while running errands, ensuring that it’s ready when you get home.
- Multi-functionality: Another great innovation in rice cookers is their ability to do more than just cook rice. Many models now come with additional cooking functions such as steaming, sauteing, slow cooking, and even baking. This versatility allows you to prepare a variety of dishes with ease, saving you time and effort in the kitchen.
- Advanced Cooking Technology: Rice cookers now utilize advanced cooking technologies such as induction heating and fuzzy logic. Induction heating ensures even heat distribution, resulting in uniformly cooked rice. Fuzzy logic technology, on the other hand, uses artificial intelligence to adjust the cooking time and temperature based on the type of rice and desired texture, ensuring perfect results every time.
With these innovative rice cookers, cooking rice has never been easier. Say goodbye to burned or soggy rice and hello to consistently delicious, fluffy grains. Invest in a rice cooker with advanced technology and elevate your everyday cooking experience to a whole new level.
Cooking Tips and Recipes for Making Perfect Rice Every Time
In order to maximize the potential of your new rice cooker, here are some cooking tips and recipes that will help you make perfect rice every time:
1. Measuring the Rice and Water: Use the measuring cup that comes with your rice cooker to measure both the rice and the water. Typically, the ratio is 1 cup of rice to 1 cup of water, but this may vary depending on the type of rice you are using. Refer to the instructions provided by the rice cooker manufacturer for specific measurements.
2. Washing the Rice: Before cooking the rice, it is important to wash it thoroughly to remove any excess starch. Place the rice in a bowl and rinse it under cold water until the water runs clear. This step will result in fluffier and less sticky rice.
3. Soaking the Rice: For some types of rice, soaking it in water for 30 minutes before cooking can help to improve the texture. This is especially true for long-grain varieties like basmati or jasmine rice.
4. Adding Flavors: If you want to add additional flavors to your rice, you can consider adding ingredients like broth, herbs, spices, or even vegetables. Simply add these ingredients to the rice cooker along with the rice and water for a delicious and fragrant result.
5. Avoiding Disturbing the Rice: Once you start the rice cooker, avoid opening the lid or stirring the rice. These actions can disrupt the cooking process and result in unevenly cooked rice.
6. Resting Time: After the rice cooker completes the cooking cycle, let the rice rest for a few minutes before opening the lid. This allows any excess steam to escape and results in a better texture.
7. Recipes: Now that you know the basics, here are a few simple rice recipes to get you started:
- Vegetable Fried Rice: Cook rice as usual and set aside. In a separate pan, sauté your favorite vegetables with some soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. Mix in the cooked rice and stir-fry until everything is well combined. Serve hot.
- Cilantro Lime Rice: Cook rice as usual, but add lime juice and chopped cilantro to the rice cooker along with the rice and water. Once cooked, fluff the rice and serve as a side dish.
- Coconut Rice: Cook rice as usual, but replace half of the water with coconut milk. Add a pinch of salt for flavor. Once cooked, fluff the rice and serve it with your favorite curry or stir-fry.
By following these tips and trying out different recipes, you will soon become a master at making perfect rice every time with your new rice cooker. Enjoy your delicious and fluffy rice!
10 Best Rice Cooker For Everyday Use
Zojirushi NS-LGC05XB Micom Rice Cooker & Warmer, 3-Cups (uncooked), Stainless Black
Features
| Part Number | NS-LGC05XB |
| Model | NS-LGC05XB |
| Color | Stainless Black |
| Is Adult Product | |
| Size | 3-Cups (uncooked), |
- Multi-menu cooking functions: Special settings for white/mixed riced, sushi rice, brown rice, GABA brown rice, long grain white rice, steel cut oatmeal and quick cooking
- Triple heater (bottom, side and lid) generate heat all around for even heating.Up to 3 cups / 0.54 liter. Capacity is measured in the approx. 6 oz. / 180mL rice measuring cup, using raw short grain white rice. Other grains may vary
- Dimensions (W x D x H):9-1/8 x 11-7/8 x 7-1/2 inches. Detachable and washable inner lid
- Easy to store retractable cord.Interchangeable melody and beep signal
- Removable steam vent cap allows for high-temperature cooking without messy overflows. Electrical rating : 120 Volts or 450 Watts.Micro computer automatically adjusts cooking temperature and time
Aroma Housewares 60-Cup (Cooked) (30-Cup UNCOOKED) Commercial Rice Cooker (ARC-1033E),White
Features
| Part Number | B0002AYZUO |
| Model | ARC-1033E |
| Warranty | 1 Year limited warranty |
| Color | White |
| Is Adult Product | |
| Size | 30-Cup |
| Language | English |
- Largest Capacity – Enjoy Aroma’s powerful and proven cooking technology in an even larger size! Pour in 30 cups of raw rice to prepare 60 perfectly cooked cups in total.
- One-Touch Operation – This cooker is a proud member of our “set it and forget it” mentality. The one-touch operation is fool-proof – just fill it, power on, and cook!
- Insulated Design – A heavy-duty stainless steel lid covers the nonstick inner pot with all-day insulation to keep your batch of fresh, fluffy rice warm and ready to serve.
- Automatic Keep Warm – Switches to Keep Warm mode automatically once the cooking cycle is completed to keep your foods at perfect serving temperatures.
- Convenient Cooking & Cleaning – The nonstick inner pot is easy to clean and built for heavy-duty commercial use.
- Accessories – Includes 2 rice measuring cups and a serving spatula. Power consumption: 120V/60Hz 1650W
Toshiba Mini Rice Cooker, 3 Cups Uncooked Small Rice Cooker, Steamer & Warmer, With Fuzzy Logic And One-Touch Cooking, 24 Hour Delay Timer And Auto Keep Warm...
Features
| Part Number | TRCS02 |
| Model | TRCS02 |
| Color | White |
| Size | 3 Cups |
- Multi-Function - This mini rice cooker cooks a variety of dishes, not just rice. Features 8 cooking functions, including White Rice, Quick Cook, Brown Rice, Mixed Grain, Slow Cook, Porridge, Cake, and Egg. This sticky rice cooker also makes soups, stews, oatmeal, cakes, and more. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned chef, this Toshiba rice cooker 6 cup Cooked offers great versatility and convenience
- Highly Versatile – This small rice cooker can make a variety of rice types, including brown rice, jasmine rice, sushi rice, white rice, basmati rice, and wild rice, as well as grains like oatmeal, quinoa, mixed grain, and more. This 3 cup rice cooker is perfect for families or individuals who want to cook multiple servings of rice, while still being compact enough to fit comfortably on your kitchen counter
- Fuzzy Logic Rice Cooker - Allows this Japanese rice cooker to sense the moisture content of the rice and adjust the temperature and cooking time accordingly. Results in perfectly cooked fluffy rice every time, without the need for manual adjustments or guesswork. It also helps the rice maker cooker cook other types of grains and dishes to perfection by adjusting the cooking parameters to the specific needs of the food
- Easy To Use- This electric rice cooker 3 cup is designed with intuitive control panel features a large LED display for quick and effortless programming. Keep Warm/Reheat function keeps your rice warm and delicious for hours, the Delay Timer allows you to schedule your cooking up to 24 hours in advance. Accessories included: measuring cup, spatula, and soup ladle.
- Easy To Clean-Inner pot with non-stick coating and not recommended dishwasher safe and should be washed with mild soap and soft cloth. The steam valve located on the top of the lid can be easily removed for cleaning. Steam vent cap is also removable for easy cleaning
- Safe Hassle-Free Cooking – Detachable power cord prevents accidents caused by entanglement. Lid locks firmly in place during cooking to prevent spills. Thermal fuse prevents overheating. Steam vent cap prevents hot steam from escaping during cooking. Automatic shut-off turns off heating element when cooking is done. Compared to other high-end rice cookers, this Toshiba model is a great option for those on a budget who still want a quality sushi rice cooker
Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker, Slow Cooker, Rice Cooker, Steamer, Sauté, Yogurt Maker, Warmer & Sterilizer, Includes App With Over 800...
Features
| Part Number | IP-DUO80 |
| Model | IP-DUO80 |
| Warranty | 1 year manufacturer warranty |
| Color | 0 |
| Is Adult Product | |
| Size | 8 Quarts |
| Edition | Instant Pot |
- 7-IN-1 FUNCTIONALITY: Pressure cook, slow cook, rice cooker, yogurt maker, steamer, sauté pan and food warmer..Frequency = 60 hz
- QUICK ONE-TOUCH COOKING: 13 customizable Smart Programs for pressure cooking ribs, soups, beans, rice, poultry, yogurt, desserts and more.
- COOK FAST OR SLOW: Pressure cook delicious one-pot meals up to 70% faster than traditional cooking methods or slow cook your favorite traditional recipes – just like grandma used to make.
- QUICK AND EASY CLEAN UP: Finger-print resistant, stainless-steel sides and dishwasher-safe lid, inner pot, and accessories.
- SAFETY FEATURES: Includes over 10 safety features, plus overheat protection and safe-locking lid
- PERFECT FOR LARGER FAMILIES: Cook for up to 8 people – perfect for larger families, or meal prepping and batch cooking for singles and smaller families
- VERSATILE INNER COOKING POT: We use food-grade stainless-steel, a tri-ply bottom for more even cooking and perfect for sautéing
- DISCOVER AMAZING RECIPES: Includes the free Instant Brands Connect App, where you can find new recipes to create quick favorites and prepare delicious meals, available for iOS and Android.
CUCKOO CR-0675FG 6-Cup (Uncooked) / 12-Cup (Cooked) Micom Rice Cooker with Nonstick Inner Pot, 13 Menu Modes, LCD Display, Fuzzy Logic Tech, Auto Clean (Gray)
Features
| Part Number | CR-0675FG |
| Model | CR-0675FG |
| Warranty | 1 year limited warranty |
| Color | GRAY |
| Size | 6 CUP |
- 13 Versatile Modes: Enjoy options like white rice, GABA rice, porridge, scorched rice, sticky rice, and baby food
- Mid to Large Capacity: From family gatherings to housewarming parties, this rice cooker provides the ideal serving amount with a 12-cup (cooked) capacity
- Easy-to-Use Functionality: Cook perfect rice smoothly with user-friendly digital controls, a modern LCD display, and Fuzzy Logic Technology
- Complete Customization: Tailor the texture and flavor of your rice by adjusting the cooking temperature and soaking time
- Included Accessories: Comes with a product manual, rice spatula, and rice measuring cup
FAQ
How do I make perfectly fluffy rice?
To make perfectly fluffy rice, rinse it under cold water before cooking to remove excess starch. Use a ratio of 1 cup of rice to 2 cups of water, and bring the water to a boil before adding the rice. Once the rice is added, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 18-20 minutes. Then, remove it from the heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes before fluffing it with a fork.
How can I prevent my rice from sticking to the bottom of the pot?
To prevent rice from sticking to the bottom of the pot, make sure to rinse it thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch. Additionally, using a non-stick pot or adding a small amount of oil or butter to the pot before cooking can help prevent sticking. Stirring the rice occasionally while cooking can also help to prevent it from sticking.
Are there any alternatives to cooking rice on the stovetop?
Yes, there are several alternatives to cooking rice on the stovetop. One option is to use a rice cooker, which takes the guesswork out of cooking rice and ensures consistently perfect results. Another option is to cook rice in the oven, by combining rice, water, and any desired seasonings in a baking dish and baking it, covered, at around 375°F (190°C) for 30-40 minutes. Instant pot and microwave methods are also popular alternatives.
What are some delicious rice recipes I can try?
There are countless delicious rice recipes you can try! Some popular options include fried rice, pilaf, risotto, paella, and biryani. You can also experiment with different flavours and ingredients by adding vegetables, meats, or spices to your rice dishes. Don’t be afraid to get creative and explore different cuisines to find new and exciting rice recipes to try!
Conclusion
In conclusion, with the right techniques and recipes, anyone can achieve perfect rice every time. From choosing the right type of rice to mastering the cooking process, there are several tips to keep in mind. Washing the rice, using the correct water-to-rice ratio, and allowing it to rest after cooking all contribute to the final result. Additionally, experimenting with different seasonings, spices, and cooking methods can add variety and flavor to your rice dishes. With a little practice and these cooking tips, you’ll be able to consistently make delicious and fluffy rice that will elevate your meals. So, give these tips a try and enjoy the satisfaction of serving perfect rice every time.
