Introduction
Rice is a staple food for many people around the world, but cooking it can be tricky. You need to measure the right amount of water, set the right temperature and time, and avoid burning or sticking. That’s why a rice cooker can be a great investment for your kitchen. A rice cooker is a device that automatically cooks rice by heating water until it boils and then lowering the heat to maintain a steady simmer. The rice cooker switches off or keeps the rice warm when it’s done, so you don’t have to worry about overcooking or undercooking your rice. Rice cookers can also cook other grains, such as quinoa, oatmeal, or millet, and some models can even steam vegetables, meat, or fish. Whether you want a simple or a multifunctional rice cooker, there is one for you. Here are some of the best rice cookers for 2023 that we recommend.
Our Top Picks
1. Best overall: Zojirushi NS-TSC10 5-1/2-Cup Micom Rice Cooker
This rice cooker from Zojirushi is one of the most popular and highly rated models on the market. It has a microcomputer that adjusts the temperature and time according to the type and amount of rice you are cooking. It can cook white rice, brown rice, sushi rice, porridge, cake, and more. It also has a steaming basket, a delay timer, a keep warm function, and a reheating cycle. The inner pot has a nonstick coating and a detachable lid for easy cleaning. The LCD display and buttons are user-friendly and intuitive.
2. Best budget: Black+Decker Rice Cooker
If you are looking for a simple and affordable rice cooker, this one from Black+Decker is a good option. It can cook up to six cups of cooked rice and has a one-touch operation. It automatically switches to keep warm mode when the rice is done. It also comes with a steaming basket that lets you steam vegetables or meat while cooking rice. The inner pot and the lid are dishwasher-safe for easy cleanup.
3. Best high-end: Panasonic 5-Cup Japanese Rice Cooker
This rice cooker from Panasonic is designed to deliver restaurant-quality rice at home. It uses induction heating technology that distributes heat evenly and precisely throughout the pot. It also has a diamond-coated inner pot that enhances heat conduction and prevents sticking. It can cook various types of rice, such as jasmine, basmati, sticky, or mixed, as well as porridge, soup, or cake. It has 13 preset programs, a fuzzy logic control system that adjusts the settings automatically, a 24-hour timer, and a keep warm function.
4. Best small: Wolf Gourmet Programmable
This mini multi-cooker from Lakeland is ideal for small kitchens or single households. It can cook up to four cups of cooked rice and has six functions: white rice, brown rice, cake, pasta, stew, and steam. It has a removable nonstick inner pot and a glass lid with a steam vent. It also comes with a measuring cup, a spatula, and a steaming tray.
5. Best multifunctional: Ninja FD401
This pressure cooker from Tefal can do more than just cook rice. It can also pressure cook, slow cook, brown, simmer, or steam various foods with its 25 preset programs. It has a large six-liter capacity that can feed up to six people. It has an easy-to-use digital control panel with an LED display and a delay start function. It also has a nonstick ceramic inner pot and a safety locking lid.
Things to Consider
If you love rice, you might want to invest in one of the best rice cookers on the market. A rice cooker is a handy appliance that can cook perfect rice every time, without any hassle or guesswork. But how do you choose the right one for your needs? Here are some things to consider:
- Capacity: How much rice do you usually cook? Rice cookers come in different sizes, from small ones that can make 3 cups of cooked rice to large ones that can make 20 cups or more. Choose a size that suits your household and your storage space.
- Features: Do you want a simple rice cooker that only has one button, or a more advanced one that has multiple settings and functions? Some rice cookers can also steam vegetables, make porridge, bake cakes, and more. Think about what you want to use your rice cooker for and look for the features that match your preferences.
- Price: How much are you willing to spend on a rice cooker? The price range of rice cookers varies widely, from less than $20 to over $200. Generally, the more features and functions a rice cooker has, the more expensive it is. You can find good quality rice cookers at different price points, depending on your budget and needs.
FAQs
How do I clean my rice cooker?
To clean your rice cooker, unplug it and let it cool down completely. Then, wash the inner pot and the lid with warm soapy water and a soft sponge. Rinse and dry them well. Wipe the exterior of the rice cooker with a damp cloth and dry it with a soft cloth. Do not immerse the rice cooker or the power cord in water or any other liquid.
How do I measure the rice and water for my rice cooker?
To measure the rice and water for your rice cooker, use the measuring cup and the water level marks that come with your rice cooker. The measuring cup is usually smaller than a standard cup, so do not use a regular cup to measure the rice. Follow the instructions that come with your rice cooker for the correct ratio of rice and water for different types of rice.
How long does it take to cook rice in a rice cooker?
The cooking time of rice in a rice cooker depends on the type and amount of rice, the power and capacity of the rice cooker, and the selected setting or function. Generally, it takes about 15 to 30 minutes to cook white rice in a rice cooker, and about 40 to 60 minutes to cook brown rice or other whole grains.
Conclusion
A rice cooker is a great appliance that can make your life easier and your meals tastier. It can cook perfect rice every time, with minimal effort and supervision. When choosing one of the best rice cookers for your kitchen, consider the capacity, features, and price that suit your needs and preferences. You can find a wide range of options online or in stores, from simple to sophisticated models. With a good rice cooker, you can enjoy delicious and fluffy rice anytime you want.
