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In the old days, rice cookers were straightforward, electric-powered pots. Today, they've evolved into smart, multifunctional appliances that can handle a variety of dishes with ease and efficiency.
6 Factors to consider
Alongside advancements in technology, manufacturers have added new features to improve performance and versatility. The question is, how would you know which of these new brands and models is the best choice? To help you decide, we will list down some of the factors that you need to look for when buying a rice cooker.
1. Size and capacity
Consider the size of your family. Many models come in standard 3-cup, 5-cup, or 10-cup sizes. A small family with 1–3 people should get a 3-cup capacity cooker, while a 4–6 person household should buy a 5-cup cooker. Avoid oversizing, as larger units consume more energy than necessary.
2. Types of uses
For basic models, all you have to do is add rice and water, then let the appliance do the rest. On the other hand, multifunctional options allow you to prepare all sorts of recipes besides rice, such as slow-cooked soups or steamed vegetables. Make sure to check its features and versatility before making a purchase.
3. Quality and durability
A well-built cooker should last for years. Find the best quality rice cooker in Singapore by reading the label to understand what materials are used. Aluminums and stainless steel cooking pots are known for their durability, while ceramic ones are sought after for their natural non-stick properties.
In addition, read online reviews to discover trusted brands in Singapore. Harvey Norman Singapore retails leading brands such as Philips, Tefal, Hitachi and more.
4. Accessories and design
Rice cookers often come with a spatula to scoop the rice when it’s cooked and a measuring cup for the uncooked rice. Another essential factor that you need to consider is the design. Besides being aesthetically pleasing, compact models are designed to save space. Some stylish options also come with touch sensors that also improve the ease of operation.
5. Easy maintenance
All cookers come with detachable inner pots, and some even have detachable lids to make washing easier. Even models that have non-detachable lids can be easily cleaned by simply using a cloth or sponge to wipe off any dirt and grime.
To further simplify the cleaning process, go for models with non-stick inner pots. Aluminum pots are commonly coated with Teflon that prevents rice from sticking, making the pot easier to wash after every use. Ceramic pots also clean easily and are completely safe, providing an alternative non-stick option.
6. Cost
At minimal cost, you can afford to get a standard rice cooker that offers the basic functions of cooking and warming.
However, high-end models are highly versatile, allowing you to whip up a variety of fragrant dishes and saving you a lot of time in the kitchen. They are certainly worthwhile investments for your household, should you plan to make use of their many functions.
Different types of rice cookers
Now that you already know the different factors you need to check before buying a rice cooker, it’s time to choose which type fits your needs.
- Conventional: Conventional options offer two basic functions: cook and keep warm. These rice cookers are very affordable due to their simple features.
- Enhanced: These allow you to cook a variety of grains such as barley or quinoa. They also come with a timer allowing you to preset the cooking time, so you can prepare your lunch or dinner in advance.
- Low Carb: If you are looking for a cooker that will reduce the sugar content of white rice, this is for you. It drains the unhealthy starch into the starch collector located on the underside.
- Induction: These advanced options can be used to cook dishes like braised baby back ribs, soups, and even fluffy pancakes.
- Multifunctional: These come with many menu functions and features for cooking versatility, including steaming and baking. The pre-programmed menus include sushi rice, porridge, and even risotto.
Why is it important to pick the right equipment?
Rice is a huge part of our everyday meals. Choosing the perfect rice cooker contributes to the overall outcome of your dishes, ensuring that you will always have the best dining experience with your loved ones.
If you are looking for inspiration, you can always check out Harvey Norman. They have a wide range of selections of the best rice cookers in Singapore.
