Rice is undoubtedly one of the most consumed food items. With the advancement in technology, making perfect rice has become easy nowadays. If you are in search of how to make the perfect rice or how to use a rice cooker, then you are at the best place as this blog will guide you to gain the knowledge of how to save your time by using a rice cooker.
What is a Rice Cooker?
A rice cooker is an electronic appliance designed to ease the hurdles of cooking the perfect rice. The rice cooker comprises a heat source, an inner cooking pot, and a thermostat. If you are also just like us and are unaware of the term thermostat, then let us tell you, that thermostats are designed to control the heat temperature so that they can cook the best rice for your household.
Why Use a Rice Cooker?
Here are some of the reasons why you should use a rice cooker.
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It’s Super-Efficient
You don’t have to worry about how your rice will get cooked, you just have to read your rice description and then add your rice and water into the rice cooker and relax as the rice cooker will do the rest.
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It Saves Time
Time is what matters the most while cooking, if you are cooking rice manually, that will take more time and if you are someone who loves saving time, then you must go for a rice cooker as you don’t have to worry about your rice being overcooked or you don’t have to stand nearby to monitor your rice.
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Can multi-task
There are modern rice cookers available in the market where you can have options to cook white rice, and brown rice and some are compatible with making sushi rice.
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Result Oriented
If you are also tired of cooking soggy or burnt rice, then you must try a rice cooker as it will constantly give accurate results and will make sure to cook best rice for your house.
Types of Rice Cookers
Here are some of the best-selling types of rice cookers available to cater to your needs.
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Basic Rice Cooker
We all have somehow seen basic rice cookers in the market. The basic Rice Cooker is very simple and has no additional features, it has a bowl and heat system which allows you to boil and cook your rice in less time.
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Electric Rice Cooker
If you are someone who wants things at ease, then surely you should go for an Electric Rice Cooker as the cooker comes with full digital controls. The electric rice cooker comes with features like it controls the temperature and indicates time so you don't have to stand next to your cooker all day.
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Multi-Purpose Rice Cooker
This rice cooker is undoubtedly one of the best rice cookers available in the market. This rice cooker can perform tasks like rice cooking, rice steaming, veggie steaming, making soups, and more. These Multi-Purpose Rice Cookers are popular as they save your time and work efficiently.
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Induction heat rice cooker
Induction Heat Rice Cooker is also one of the best rice cookers amongst all. Induction Heat Rice Cooker uses a coil to heat the rice so you don’t have to carry fuel and you don’t even have to worry about boiling water.
How to Cook Rice in a Rice Cooker?
Here are some of the steps you need to follow to cook rice through a rice cooker.
Step 1: Read your Rice Package
Be sure to have the basic knowledge of what quantity would be required to make rice.
- You must read your rice package well so that you have an idea of the quantity of the rice and water.
- There are some vitamin-enriched rice which doesn't need to be rinsed.
Step 2: Add Water and Rice into your Bowl/Pot
Measure the right amount of dry rice (as the package says) and pour it into the rice cooker pot.
- If your rice doesn't need rinsing, add the exact amount of water as specified on the package. If it needs rinsing, first add enough water to cover the rice and let it sit for about a minute.
- Next, use your clean hands or a rubber spatula to stir the rice in the water. The water will turn cloudy because of the starch.
- Drain the water, then add fresh water and repeat the process. Keep doing this until the water stays clear when you stir it.
- Drain the last bit of water, then add the exact amount specified in the package instructions.
Step 3: Place the pot in the cooker and cover its lid
Before closing the lid, you can add spices, flavors, oil, and butter.
Step 4: Let your Rice Cook Well
Cooking times for rice can vary based on the type and amount of rice, but usually, it cooks within 15-35 minutes.
- When your rice is done, the rice cooker might beep, switch off, or the light will turn off.
- Most rice cookers also switch to a 'keep warm' setting automatically after cooking, which can be left on for up to 12 hours safely.
- Let the rice sit for at least 15 minutes after cooking to let it absorb any leftover moisture.
Step 5: Ready to serve
If your rice cooker has a nonstick pot, use the rice paddle that came with it, or use plastic or rubber spatula to scoop out the rice. This helps protect the nonstick surface from scratches.
Cleaning Your Rice Cooker
Don’t forget to clean your rice cooker after each use. Remove the inner pot and wash it with warm, soapy water. Wipe down the exterior with a damp cloth. Make sure all parts are dry before storing.
Conclusion
Rice Cookers are undoubtedly one of the finest inventions to date. It makes our work easier and it saves our time. We hope this guide has helped you to understand, how to use a rice cooker.
Happy cooking!
