RICE COOKER INFORMATION
Families that cook a lot of rice meals or have rice as their staple usually
have a rice cooker. Having an automatic rice cooker speeds up the cooking
process of rice, allowing you to have one to several cups done in one time.
Different types rice cookers and their key features
Rice cookers come in a number of classifications. Each specializes in a
particular cooking need.
On/Off Rice Cookers
These are the simplest type of rice cookers,
only requiring a quick press of the button to start cooking the rice. You don\'t
need to wait and monitor the rice\'s progress--simply leave it for a while and
the cooker will switch from cooking to warm mode once the rice is done cooking.
Apart from quickly cooking a few cups of rice, on/off models can also cook other
rice dishes such as paella, or liquid recipes of stews and soups.
Induction heat cookers
These models use an induction heating
system to cook the rice. The technology applied evenly distributes the heat
used, giving you just the right fluffiness. The heat distribution goes
throughout the rice pan and is not limited to just coming from underneath. The
heat distributed is adjusted according to possible errors that could occur with
the set cooking time and temperature.
Cook and Keep Warm
Cook and keep warm rice cookers are practical
for households that want to cook their rice for the day in one go. The cooker
automatically switches to \'keep warm\' mode after the rice is properly cooked.
Most models also include steamers that can be used to reheat food and cook other
kinds of dishes.
Fuzzy logic rice cookers
These rice cookers have more advanced
features, able to adjust the heat amount and cooking duration based on certain
cooking errors. All one needs to do is set the program and the cooker will
adjust the process accordingly, depending on your preference: sticky or fluffy
rice.
Basic features to look for
Capacity
Choose a model that accommodates the amount you usually
consume per day. Capacity also depends on how much you cook per batch. Getting a
small rice cooker will force you to use it over and over, while a model too
large will waste the excess rice cooked.
Steamer tray
Some models include a built in steamer tray that you
can use to warm other kinds of food. This can be helpful if you want to
multitask. The downside is it cannot cook the rice as fast since you will be
cooking two things at the same time. Steamer trays are most useful to those who
cook vegetables regularly.
The lid
A clear lid is most practical since it lets you see how the
rice is cooked. The cooker should also include a steam release hole, otherwise,
the steam will stain the lid\'s edges and cleaning it will be quite
difficult.
Construction
Higher end models offer durable stainless steel while
the more affordable ones are made of plastic or aluminum. The material you
choose will really depend on your budget and the durability you are after.
Other features
Other models include extra but very convenient
features, such as a digital display, preset timer, indicator light, and quick
cook. The digital display lets you go through the cooker\'s various settings and
other features, making programming easy to learn and done in a few minutes.
The preset timer lets you prepare the rice at night, ready to be eaten in the
morning or have it done in the middle of the day, ready for dinner. The
indicator light lets you know the rice\'s status, without you having to peek
through the lid. There\'s also the quick cook feature, usually found in more
expensive models, which cooks faster as it skips straight to cooking model.
Other factors to consider when buying a rice cooker
Safety
There are also safety features worth looking into. Safety
options are particularly helpful for families with young children. An auto cord
reel can keep the cord away while the rice cooker is not being used. This
lessens the chances of the kids playing with the cord, maybe getting into
accidents or causing the rice cooker to fall down.
Fuse protector
You might also want to consider a fuse protector,
which automatically turns off the appliance when an electrical malfunction
occurs. This is more helpful when one leaves the rice cooker on or sets the
timer to cook at night or in the afternoon. This can prevent any fires in case
the cooker is left on for a long time.
Functionality
You should also look out for other aspects, such as
extra functions, cleaning results, accessories, and programmability. Extra
functions usually include a warm function, a steamer, extended keep warm, or
specialized rice texture settings. More advanced and high end models usually
have the specialized settings, letting you choose between sushi or long grain
rice. This feature is helpful for chefs or kitchen users who like to cook a wide
range of dishes.
Cleaning
In terms of cleaning, most models are non-stick, making
the process quick and easy. But other cookers require soaking, depending on the
material. Programmable functions are helpful for those who leave their cookers
on for a long time or tend to forget they were using it in the first place.
Accessories
In terms of accessories, some brands offer steam
baskets, measuring cups, a rice spatula, or even recipe books. These freebies
are usually included in special discounts and promos.
What you really need?
Choose your rice cooker depending on what you
really need and what your budget can afford. Once you\'ve narrowed down the
features you need, choosing the best rice cooker will be easy.
