The French love rice dishes. That's why we consume 4.5 kg per person per year. The rice cooker is an appliance that allows you to cook it to perfection. It is very practical, especially thanks to the keep warm function, the steam basket and the lid to see the cooking. Basic, connected, compact or large capacity model, which rice cooker to choose?
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Our selection
"If you are looking for a maxi size rice cooker, the Tefal RK103811 Classic 2 is the appliance for you! With a design similar to…"
"The Listo CR L2 does exactly what you'd expect. This rice cooker is equipped with a 1.5 L non-stick aluminum bowl. The interior graduations make…"
"The Zojirushi NS YMH10 has the advantage of being made entirely in Japan. This rice cooker is exceptionally solid and reliable. With such an equipment,…"
"The Russell Hobbs COOK@HOME 19750-56 can cook rice and steam. Its brushed steel design gives it a rare elegance. The appliance keeps its promises despite…"
"Compact, the Tefal RK601800 Mini remains completely cold on the outside during cooking. This does not prevent this rice cooker from being fast and efficient…"
If you are looking for a maxi size rice cooker, the Tefal RK103811 Classic 2 is the appliance for you! With a design similar to the first generation of the Classic range, this one is distinguished by its very large capacity.
33,66 £ on BoulangerIf the Tefal RK102811 Classic could cook 900g of rice, the RK103811 Classic 2 can cook up to 1.5kg of rice, which is 600g more. Despite its large size, you won't have any problem storing it. If you have a large family and love rice dishes, you won't be disappointed with this rice cooker wonder. It can also cook side dishes like vegetables or meat.
All you have to do is to put water, pour the food and start the machine. If the device detects that there is not enough water inside, it directly applies the "keep warm" mode. We only regret the absence of a stop button, forcing to unplug the machine. However, this is not a big problem.
The Listo CR L2 does exactly what you'd expect. This rice cooker is equipped with a 1.5 L non-stick aluminum bowl. The interior graduations make it easy to measure out the amount of rice and water. Be careful with the water dosage and the prolonged heat retention.
15,99 £ on BoulangerThe Listo CR L2 rice cooker is compact, with a removable non-stick bowl of 1.5 L. This is enough for 800g of raw rice, enough for 8 people. This very simple appliance only has an on/off button and 2 indicator lights. The first one indicates the cooking, the other one the keeping warm.
This rice cooker is an entry-level model, but it comes with many accessories. The package contains a measuring cup, a spatula, a removable bowl and a lid. Despite the price, this rice cooker fulfills its function very well, 20 min on average per cooking. The interior graduations of the bowl make dosing easy.
We recommend pressing the switch once the cooking is finished. This way, you will avoid burning the rice or having it dry out or stick to the bottom of the container. To clean, soak the accessories in water with washing-up liquid and rinse with water. The interior and wall can be cleaned with a soft cloth.
The Zojirushi NS YMH10 has the advantage of being made entirely in Japan. This rice cooker is exceptionally solid and reliable. With such an equipment, you will never miss cooking your rice again.
320 £ on AmazonWith a capacity of 1 L, the Zojirushi NS YMH10 It is suitable for a couple or a single person. Its aluminum bowl has a non-stick coating that prevents the rice from sticking to the sides at the end of cooking. You have 12 menus visible on the top of the device. Simply select the cooking program you want. Regardless of the cooking mode you choose, your rice will be both light, flexible, fragrant and very airy.
This rice cooker supports different types of rice, including Thai rice, basmati rice, glutinous rice, uruchimai or niigata rice. Despite its Japanese manufacture, the cooker has a French plug. In addition, the keep warm function will preserve the heat of your rice without burning or drying it out.
The Russell Hobbs COOK@HOME 19750-56 can cook rice and steam. Its brushed steel design gives it a rare elegance. The appliance keeps its promises despite the powerful heat retention and a plastic steam basket.
22,36 £ on CdiscountThe Russell Hobbs COOK@HOME 19750-56 is the rival of the Tefal RK102811 Classic 2. Simple and basic, this rice cooker is also very fast. Like the Tefal, it fulfills its role perfectly. With a non-stick bowl of 1.80 L for 10 people, it is well thought out. For example, the power cord wraps around the unit.
Be careful not to overuse the keep warm function, as this could burn the rice. The absence of a steam basket explains in part the lower price of the Tefal. You can also use the Russell Hobbs COOK@HOME 19750-56 to cook vegetables, meat, fish, lentils... Note the plastic steam basket. For cleaning, a sponge and soapy water are sufficient. In any case, avoid the dishwasher.
Compact, the Tefal RK601800 Mini remains completely cold on the outside during cooking. This does not prevent this rice cooker from being fast and efficient to perform its 6 functions. The LCD screen and the numerous buttons allow to manage the operations.
63,99 £ on BoulangerIf you are looking for a smart rice cooker, the Tefal RK601800 Mini will interest you. Versatile and compact, this model is enough for 6 people. The capacity of the graduated bowl reaches 2 L or 600 g of raw rice. Note that it is removable and non-stick. In addition, the manufacturer provides a ladle, a rice spoon, a steaming basket, a measuring cup and a recipe book.
The body of the device is made of plastic, which does not detract from its elegance. No glass lid, but an LCD screen to display the active functions. You'll get 6 pre-programmed recipes: Boil, Steam, Rice and pasta, White rice, Whole grain rice, Soup and Dessert. However, there is no cereal function.
We love this induction rice cooker for its cold wall during use. Apart from the screen, the top has indicator lights and various buttons such as delayed start, timer or on/off. A sound signal indicates the end of the cooking process. For cleaning, the steam basket and the bowl are dishwasher safe. The rest can be cleaned with a sponge.
Don't let its minimalist design fool you, the Xiaomi Mijia Mini is a must-have in the kitchen for rice lovers. Its 1.6L capacity allows you to cook rice for the whole family to perfection, with ease.
56,79 £ on CdiscountThe Xiaomi brand focuses mainly on the functionality of the Mijia Mini, which is why this rice cooker has a relatively simple design. However, it will fit easily into any kitchen and will perform its role perfectly. Apart from its 1.6L capacity, the Xiaomi Mijia Mini is equipped with a non-stick bowl, ensuring easy cleaning and increased durability.
The Xiaomi Mijia Mini rice cooker has a power of 400W and offers an electromagnetic heating mode. You don't need to monitor the cooking anymore, it embeds a very accurate temperature control system. Even better, it has the Ability to connect wirelessly to Wi-Fi domestic. The keep warm mode is activated automatically once the cooking is over.
The Yum Asia Panda Mini rice cooker is definitely the most compact of our comparison with a capacity of only 630 mL. However, it is distinguished by its ceramic bowl and its 4 cooking modes.
75,92 £ on AmazonWith the Yum Asia Panda Mini, a simple push of a button allows you to cook your rice the way you dreamed it, whether you want to prepare white rice, long grain rice, short grain rice, sushi rice, brown rice... The appliance cooks in 7 distinct phases. This ensures that the taste, texture and aroma of your rice are optimally preserved. In spite of this, the realization of your dishes is done quickly.
Thanks to the Innovative 3D heating technology (Fuzzy Logic)Thanks to the Fuzzy Logic, this device promises you a customized cooking. A 24-hour adjustable timer is integrated, as is the keep warm function. The bowl is coated with a thick layer of 2 mm ceramic. The control panel makes programming easy. It also has an LED display.
The Cuckoo CR-0632 rice cooker is one of the easiest to use and takes up little space. You can leave it on your countertop without disturbing your kitchen decor.
79,99 £ on AmazonAre you used to receiving guests? Don't worry! This rice cooker will fit the bill. It can accommodate up to 6 people. Its non-stick bowl of 1.08 L helps. The special 3D heating system ensures optimal cooking. Even if its look seems basic, this model will keep your preparation warm until the meal in an automatic way.
Its simplicity is reflected in the small lever on the front. You can lower it to start the cooking phase. An indicator light will come on as a witness. As long as you do not unplug the plug, the heat conservation will always be effective. Moreover, this option can go up to 12 hours without risk of drying out the rice. Note that it is equipped with a drainage system to collect condensation.
Any specific needs?
The best entry-level rice cooker
The most convenient rice cooker
Your guide :
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| Top of the line | Inexpensive | Top of the line | Excellent | Induction | Connected | Compact | Simple | |
In accordance with our commitment, this buying guide does not contain any sponsored products. |
8/10 |
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8/10 |
7/10 |
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| OUR SELECTION |
Tefal RK103811 CLASSIC 2
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Rice cooker Listo CR L2
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Zojirushi NS YMH10
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Russell Hobbs COOK@HOME 19750-56
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Rice cooker Tefal RK601800 Mini
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Xiaomi Mijia Mini
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Yum Asia Panda Mini
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Cuckoo CR-0632
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If you are looking for a maxi size rice cooker, the Tefal RK103811 Classic 2 is the appliance for you! With a design similar to the first generation of the Classic range, this one is distinguished by its very large capacity.
|
The Listo CR L2 does exactly what you'd expect. This rice cooker is equipped with a 1.5 L non-stick aluminum bowl. The interior graduations make it easy to measure out the amount of rice and water. Be careful with the water dosage and the prolonged heat retention.
|
The Zojirushi NS YMH10 has the advantage of being made entirely in Japan. This rice cooker is exceptionally solid and reliable. With such an equipment, you will never miss cooking your rice again.
|
The Russell Hobbs COOK@HOME 19750-56 can cook rice and steam. Its brushed steel design gives it a rare elegance. The appliance keeps its promises despite the powerful heat retention and a plastic steam basket.
|
Compact, the Tefal RK601800 Mini remains completely cold on the outside during cooking. This does not prevent this rice cooker from being fast and efficient to perform its 6 functions. The LCD screen and the numerous buttons allow to manage the operations.
|
Don't let its minimalist design fool you, the Xiaomi Mijia Mini is a must-have in the kitchen for rice lovers. Its 1.6L capacity allows you to cook rice for the whole family to perfection, with ease.
|
The Yum Asia Panda Mini rice cooker is definitely the most compact of our comparison with a capacity of only 630 mL. However, it is distinguished by its ceramic bowl and its 4 cooking modes.
|
The Cuckoo CR-0632 rice cooker is one of the easiest to use and takes up little space. You can leave it on your countertop without disturbing your kitchen decor.
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Power
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500 W
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400 W |
610 W
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700 W
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350 W |
400 W
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350 W
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500 W
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Capacity
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3 L
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1.5 L
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1 L
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1.8 L
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2 L
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1.6 L
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0.63 L
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1.08 L
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Steaming
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Yes
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No
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No
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Yes
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Yes
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No
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Yes
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No
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Accessories
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Measuring
cupSpatulaSteam basketSteam rack |
Measuring cupSpatula
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-
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Steam
basketMeasuring cupPlastic spoon |
Rice spoonSteam basketMeasuringcupRecipe booklets
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Rice spoon, measuring bowl
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Steam basket, rice measuring cup, rice spatula and soup ladle
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Measuring cup, inner pot and rice spoon
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Weight
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2.45 kg
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1.45 kg
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3.6 kg
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2.8 kg
|
3.03 kg
|
2.12 kg
|
2.36 kg
|
3.4 kg
|
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Most removable bowls have graduations on the inside. They indicate the capacity of the rice cooker, usually 1.5 to 3.5 L. You must also take into account the quantity of raw rice that the cooker can cook, from 500 g to 1 kg. A measuring cup is provided to find the right amount of rice and water. Before choosing, think about what you need. If you have a large family or want to cook and store leftovers, you will need a very large capacity. On the other hand, if you only want to cook one or two servings of rice, the minimum capacity should suffice.
Rice cookers often have stainless steel or nonstick aluminum pans. If you use pots and pans, you probably already have a preference. But both materials have advantages and disadvantages. For durability, stainless steel is best. On the other hand, it is more difficult to clean if rice sticks to the bottom. This happens when you don't use the rice cooker properly. Non-stick is easier to clean, but it's not as durable.
High-end rice cookers aren't just overrated steamers. They have a microprocessor that checks temperature and other cooking conditions. They adjust accordingly to give you consistently perfect rice. There is also steaming and keep warm on all models. In addition, many of today's models use induction heating. The advantage of this technology lies in its efficiency. Indeed, the chip can adapt to measurement errors and still give excellent results. Models of this kind are much more practical but also more expensive.
There are rice cookers with a timer. They allow you to delay cooking until 11pm. This is handy if you don't have much time to cook or if you want to come home with freshly cooked rice. It also makes breakfast preparation easier since most rice cookers are also used to make porridge.
We all have our preferences for cooking rice. Also, some dishes or types of rice require different textures. For example, rice to accompany Thai cuisine needs to be soft and sticky, while an Indian curry is best accompanied by a slightly firm basmati. High-end rice cookers offer different textures, so that the rice is suitable for all kinds of dishes.
Here are a few things to keep in mind to make sure everything goes as planned.
Wash the rice before cooking
Unless you are cooking a variety that does not require rinsing, washing the rice is important. It removes any remaining particles from the production process, which in some countries include talc.
Rinsing rice is also a good way to remove excess starch, which will make it less sticky. The only exception to this rule is the large, fully automated rice cookers, which rinse the rice for you.
Measure the amount of rice
Rice cookers are usually sold with a measuring cup. The size of these measuring cups varies from country to country. But to make sure you fill your rice cooker with the right amount of rice and water, you will need one.
This is especially important because most rice cookers have an optimal load capacity. For example, a rice cooker with a capacity of 7 cups may work best when preparing 4 to 6 cups of rice. But too much or too little water and rice will inevitably interfere with the cooking process.
Measure the amount of water
Be aware that different varieties of rice require different amounts of water to cook properly. Many rice cookers have a measuring jug. They are usually suitable for short-grain white rice and some types of brown rice.
For other types of rice, read the instructions to find out how much water to add. The freshness of the rice can also affect the amount of water and cooking time. In general, more water is needed when the rice is older.
Follow the cooking time
Most rice cookers have only one switch for turning on and off. Usually, the appliance will turn itself off when the cooking is finished. It will then go into a keep warm mode or make a sound to alert you. If the dosage of rice and water has been correct, the cooking time should be between 15 and 30 minutes.
After cooking, it is a good idea to let the rice rest. This will give it a better taste and texture. It will also prevent the cooked grains from hardening or drying out. It also reduces the risk of the rice sticking to the bottom of the bowl.
It is recommended to clean the rice cooker after each use. The body can be cleaned with a wet sponge or cloth. Use soapy water if stains persist. The accessories are usually dishwasher safe. If not, wash with soapy water. And never clean with an abrasive object.
In general, buying a rice cooker on the Internet is cheaper than buying it in a store. It also takes less time to buy online. In addition, brands offer some models only on online platforms. Moreover, you can always return the device within 14 days in case of dissatisfaction or ask for help from the technical support.
Many brands sell their rice cookers from their own websites. They also use websites specialized in household appliances such as Boulanger, Darty or Amazon. Some brands also have physical stores for those who have the time to go there.
Basic rice cookers are simple appliances. Just add rice, water and press a button to start cooking. Some are very compact, which is suitable for 1 or 2 people. Given the price, don't expect to have a timer or specific cooking modes. However, these appliances do a good job of cooking, with fluffy cooked rice.
Advantages:
Disadvantages:
Who is it for?
If you're limited to white rice or plan to use it occasionally, a basic rice cooker might be all you need. Plus, it doesn't cost much.
Most micom rice cookers usually have many settings to cook different types of rice.
Advantages:
Disadvantages:
Who is it for?
A micom rice cooker is a good compromise for those who want a lot of features but refuse to buy an induction rice cooker, considered too expensive.
This type of rice cooker uses the entire cooking vessel, not just the bottom like most models. As a result, the rice cooks without clumping. It cooks much more evenly and is suitable for the most delicate rice varieties. Induction rice cookers work faster than micom rice cookers, so impatient cooks will be delighted.
Advantages:
Disadvantages:
Who is it for?
If you're a real rice lover, the induction rice cooker will appeal to you. It can cook all varieties to perfection. But many of its features will not be useful.
Many rice cookers have a plastic, stainless steel or aluminum steam basket. It allows you to steam vegetables or meat at the same time as the rice. Moreover, this accessory is removable and easy to clean.
It is a kitchen appliance consisting of a tank and a steam basket that cooks rice automatically. Very practical, you just have to dose the rice and water correctly in the vat, put the lid on and switch on the device. It then switches off when the cooking cycle is complete. Using this appliance to cook rice is very beneficial in many ways. Indeed, it cooks the rice perfectly by keeping the grains well separated.
The rice cooker also has an option to keep the rice warm for an hour, or even twelve hours for some models. Its only big drawback is that its temperature-holding feature can cause the rice to dry out a bit. Also, it is cumbersome for your kitchen counter space because it needs to be plugged into an electrical outlet. But of course, it is still easy to manage.
The multi-cooker makes it easy to make several recipes with one kitchen appliance. Like the rice cooker, it also has a stainless steel bowl and a steam basket. Interestingly, it has a timer and a programmer that defines the cooking mode and the temperature adapted to each type of food. Easy to use, you just have to select the time and the adapted cooking mode.
Its greatest advantage is its versatility, since it is an all-in-one appliance (yogurt maker, saucepan, bread maker). Among other things, the multi-cooker is ideal for making healthy meals thanks to its low oil consumption. This appliance does have a few drawbacks, however. It cannot replace a real oven, so you may not be able to cook your pizza or mini cake properly.
In conclusion, the choice between these two types of appliances will depend on your needs. It is better to choose a multi-cooker to make different preparations with a single appliance. On the other hand, nothing replaces the function of the rice cooker for cooking rice.
To eat good rice dishes
In sub-Saharan Africa, Thailand, China, India, Japan and many other countries, many culinary preparations use rice. These include sushi, Cantonese rice, Tiep Bou Dien or rice soup. No matter what you cook, a good rice cooker will always meet your expectations.
Fast cooking and long life
If you cook rice regularly, a rice cooker will save you a lot of time and effort. Because of the sturdiness and reliability of the appliances, many of them last for several years. Some models last up to 10 years or more!
Results are always up to par
You can cook rice in a pot or a pan. But you'll get the best results with a rice cooker. The micom and induction models even have functions to correct your dosing mistakes. This way, the appliance adapts the cooking until you get what you want in the first place.
Convenience and simplicity
The rice cooker allows you to prepare other dishes or steam them. Meat, eggs, vegetables, spinach, lentils, fish, seafood... The choice is vast, not to mention the recipes integrated in the most intelligent rice cookers. In addition, using a rice cooker frees up the stove to prepare something else.
Think about how often you will use the rice cooker. For daily or weekly use, it's best to invest in a high-end model. This will protect you from unpleasant surprises.
In our opinion, the best brands of rice cookers in 2022 are :
According to the top 50 established by the Young & Rubicam agency, Tefal is the 10th favorite brand of the French. It even holds the first place for kitchen equipment. Thanks to its innovative and inexpensive appliances, the French brand focuses on the consumer. It aims to make cooking accessible to everyone, which is why most of its rice cookers are so popular.
The American brand was founded in 1971 by Carl Sontheimer. A great lover of French gastronomy, he wanted to make cooking accessible to everyone and succeeded in his bet. Cuisinart democratized the use of food processors before diversifying. We love this brand for its innovations and its interest in the way consumers eat.
Boulanger is the exclusive representative and distributor of this entry-level brand. Listo stands out for its low prices but benefiting from after-sales service and 2-year warranty. In addition to rice cookers, it focuses on large appliances: washing machines, dishwashers, ovens and microwaves, refrigerators, freezers. Note that Boulanger also has a mid-range brand called Essentiel B.
The English small appliance brand knows a thing or two about design. Its best-known products are coffee makers, kettles and toasters. This does not prevent it from offering very good rice cookers. In addition to originality, this brand is popular because of its always affordable prices. With a Russell Hobbs appliance in the kitchen, you will surely be the envy of many!
This Japanese brand is hard to find in the UK, but its products are worth a visit. It makes the best high-end rice cookers in the world. The power and voltage of these appliances correspond to European standards even if there is no CE label in some cases. Note however that the instructions and buttons are in English. At the end of cooking, Zojiroshi rice cookers emit a little music.
The diagram below will help you to get an idea of the typical prices for each price range (entry-level, mid-range and high-end).
However, more expensive does not necessarily mean better.
We therefore advise you to always consult our ranking before deciding, rather than blindly relying on price ranges.
Use your rice cooker to cook vegetables
Indeed, the rice cooker is not only used to cook rice. You can also cook vegetables in it, provided you buy a model with a steam basket. Wash, peel and cut your vegetables into pieces and place them in the steamer basket. Then add water to the tank, with a little broth to give the food more flavor. And off you go to cook!
Cook in a water bath with your rice cooker
Want to melt chocolate or make boiled eggs? The rice cooker is your ally. Put water in the water tank and turn on the device. Then place the food you want to cook in a bain-marie in a Pyrex type container and put it in the tank. However, keep a close eye on the cooking time.
Remember to colour your rice
For more aesthetic appeal, why not add a little color to your plate? Plus, there's no need for artificial coloring. For a yellow coloring, for example, boil an egg and color your rice with the yolk. If you prefer a purple color, use beet juice. For orange rice, cook your rice in carrot juice.
Add coconut milk to the cooking water
Coconut milk is widely used in the preparation of various recipes, both savory and sweet. When cooking rice, add coconut milk to the cooking water. In addition to giving your rice more flavor, it will add an exotic touch to your dishes.
Cook your rice in the microwave
It is also possible to cook your rice in the microwave. To do this, rinse your rice well and add the same volume of water as in the rice cooker. Then place it in the microwave and let it cook on medium power for 15 minutes. Don't forget to stir your rice halfway through cooking so that it cooks evenly.
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