Ever burned rice trying to cook a big batch for a family gathering or event? It’s frustrating, right?
Choosing the right rice cooker can be tricky. There are so many different brands and features! Many people feel overwhelmed by the choices and end up with a cooker that doesn’t meet their needs. They might struggle with inconsistent cooking, burnt rice, or a cooker that’s too small or too big.
This post will help you navigate the world of rice cookers. We’ll explore the key features to look for in a professional rice cooker. You’ll learn how to choose a model that perfectly fits your cooking style and volume needs. We’ll even share some tips for getting the fluffiest, most delicious rice every time.
Finding the perfect Professional Rice Cooker can be challenging, but we’ve made it simple for you. Let’s dive in and find the ideal cooker for your kitchen!
Top 6 Professional Rice Cooker
1. Aroma Housewares AROMA® Professional 20-Cup (Cooked) / 5Qt. Digital Rice Cooker, Steamer, and Slow Cooker Pot with 10 Smart Cooking Modes, Including Sauté-then-Simmer®
The Aroma Housewares AROMA® Professional 20-Cup Rice Cooker is a versatile kitchen appliance. It cooks rice, steams vegetables, and slow cooks meals. It has ten different cooking settings, including a handy sauté function. This makes it great for busy families or anyone who wants to simplify meal prep.
What We Like:
- It cooks a large amount of rice—perfect for feeding a crowd!
- The ten cooking modes offer lots of flexibility. You can make many different dishes.
- The digital controls are easy to understand and use. Even beginners will find it simple.
- Cleaning is relatively easy. The non-stick pot makes cleanup a breeze.
- It’s a good value for the money. You get lots of features at a reasonable price.
What Could Be Improved:
- The rice cooker is quite large. It might take up too much counter space for some kitchens.
- The instruction manual could be clearer. Some users found it a bit confusing.
- The keep-warm function could be improved. The rice sometimes dries out after a while.
Overall, the Aroma Housewares 20-Cup Rice Cooker is a solid choice for those who need a multi-functional appliance. Its versatility and ease of use are big pluses. However, consider its size and the minor shortcomings before buying.
It’s a great option for many, but not everyone.
2. Aroma Housewares 60-Cup (Cooked) (30-Cup UNCOOKED) Commercial Rice Cooker (ARC-1033E),White
The Aroma Housewares 60-Cup (Cooked) Rice Cooker (ARC-1033E) is a large-capacity rice cooker designed for heavy use. It’s great for feeding crowds, whether it’s a big family, a potluck, or a catering event. This white cooker boasts a simple design and straightforward operation.
What We Like:
- It cooks a massive amount of rice – 60 cups cooked, or 30 cups uncooked! This saves you tons of time.
- The price is reasonable for a commercial-grade rice cooker of this size.
- It’s easy to clean. The non-stick inner pot makes cleanup a breeze.
- The cooker has a simple, user-friendly design. Even beginners can easily operate it.
- The keep-warm function lets you keep your rice warm for hours.
What Could Be Improved:
- It’s quite large and heavy. Storage might be a challenge for those with limited kitchen space.
- Some users reported the rice occasionally sticking to the bottom, even with proper water levels.
- The power cord is a bit short. You might need an extension cord for some kitchen setups.
Overall, the Aroma Housewares 60-Cup Rice Cooker is a solid choice for large-scale rice cooking needs. Its capacity and affordability are major pluses. However, consider its size and weight before purchasing.
This rice cooker is a great buy if you need to cook lots of rice regularly, but it might not be the best fit for smaller kitchens or infrequent use.
3. AROMA Professional Digital Rice Cooker, 10-Cup (Uncooked) / 20-Cup (Cooked), Multicooker, Slow Cooker, Steamer, Oatmeal Cooker, Egg Cooker, STS, 5 Qt, Gray, ARC-5200SG
The AROMA Professional Digital Rice Cooker (ARC-5200SG) is a versatile kitchen appliance. It cooks rice, of course, but it also slow cooks, steams, makes oatmeal, and even cooks eggs! This 5-quart cooker holds up to 10 cups of uncooked rice (that’s 20 cups cooked!). Its digital controls make it easy to use. The gray color looks great on any countertop.
What We Like:
- This cooker is super versatile. It does so much more than just cook rice!
- The digital controls are simple and easy to understand. Even beginners can use it.
- Cleaning is a breeze. The non-stick inner pot wipes clean easily.
- It’s a good value for the money. You get a lot of features for the price.
- The keep-warm function ensures your food stays hot until serving time.
What Could Be Improved:
- The instruction manual could be clearer. Some users found it a little confusing.
- The cooker is a bit large and heavy. It might not be ideal for small kitchens.
- Some users reported that the steaming basket is a little small.
Overall, the AROMA Professional Digital Rice Cooker is a fantastic multi-cooker. Its many functions and ease of use make it a valuable addition to any kitchen. However, potential buyers should consider its size and the instruction manual’s clarity before purchasing.
4. Commercial Stainless Steel Rice Cooker – Professional 64 Cup Cooked (32 Cup Uncooked) Rice Maker Cooker With Non Stick Pot & Hinged Lid – Includes a Rice Measuring Cup & Rice Scoop
This Commercial Stainless Steel Rice Cooker is a powerhouse! It cooks a whopping 64 cups of delicious rice—that’s enough to feed a crowd! This big cooker has a non-stick pot for easy cleaning and a hinged lid for convenient access. It even comes with a measuring cup and rice scoop. Perfect for restaurants, large families, or anyone who loves rice!
What We Like:
- It cooks a huge amount of rice quickly.
- The non-stick pot makes cleanup a breeze.
- The hinged lid is super convenient.
- The included measuring cup and scoop are helpful.
- It’s made of durable stainless steel.
- This rice cooker looks professional and modern.
What Could Be Improved:
- It’s quite large and might take up a lot of counter space.
- The price is higher than smaller rice cookers.
- Some users reported that the cooker can be a little noisy while cooking.
Overall, this commercial rice cooker is a great investment if you need to cook large quantities of rice regularly. Its size and capacity are its best features. However, consider the space it requires and the higher price point before you buy.
5. Commercial Rice Cooker Large Capacity Rice Cooker & Rice Warmer – Extra Large Rice Cooker 35 Cups Raw / 70 Cups Cooked Big Rice Cooker 35 Cups Raw Rice Cooker 70 Cups Cooked 120V/1500W, ETL Listed
This Commercial Rice Cooker is a giant! It cooks a whopping 70 cups of cooked rice – that’s enough for a huge party or a week’s worth of meals for a big family. It’s also a rice warmer, keeping your rice perfectly ready to serve. This ETL-listed cooker is designed for heavy use.
What We Like:
- Massive Capacity: This cooker handles enormous amounts of rice, perfect for large gatherings or feeding lots of people.
- Keeps Rice Warm: The warming function ensures your rice stays delicious and ready to eat for hours.
- Easy to Clean: The non-stick inner pot makes cleanup quick and simple.
- Durable Construction: It’s built to last with heavy-duty materials.
- Safety Certified: The ETL listing shows it meets safety standards.
What Could Be Improved:
- Size and Weight: It’s very large and heavy, making it difficult to move around easily.
- Price: It’s a more expensive option compared to smaller rice cookers.
- Storage: You’ll need plenty of counter space to store this big cooker.
Overall, this commercial rice cooker is a powerful machine ideal for those who need to cook large quantities of rice regularly. Its large capacity and warming function are great features. However, its size and price should be considered before purchasing.
This cooker is best for restaurants, caterers, or large families with significant rice consumption needs.
6. Buffalo Classic Rice Cooker with Clad Stainless Steel Inner Pot – Electric Rice Cooker for White/Brown Rice, Grain – Easy-to-clean, Non-Toxic & Non-Stick, Auto Warmer (10 Cup)
The Buffalo Classic 10-Cup Rice Cooker makes cooking rice a breeze! Its clad stainless steel inner pot is super easy to clean and won’t scratch. This cooker handles both white and brown rice, plus other grains. It even has an automatic warmer to keep your rice perfectly ready to serve.
What We Like:
- The stainless steel inner pot is durable and easy to clean.
- It cooks rice perfectly, every time.
- The auto-warmer feature is convenient.
- It’s easy to use, even for beginners.
- The 10-cup capacity is great for families or larger gatherings.
- The non-stick surface prevents food from sticking.
What Could Be Improved:
- The power cord could be a bit longer.
- Some users find the keep-warm function keeps the rice slightly too dry after a long time.
- The instruction manual could be more detailed for some users.
Overall, this Buffalo Classic rice cooker is a fantastic appliance for anyone who cooks rice frequently. Its ease of use and excellent cooking performance make it a worthwhile investment. It’s a reliable and convenient way to enjoy perfectly cooked rice every day.
Choosing the Perfect Professional Rice Cooker: A Buyer’s Guide
Picking the right rice cooker can feel overwhelming. This guide helps you find the perfect one for your needs, whether you’re a home cook or a restaurant owner.
Key Features to Look For
- Capacity: How much rice do you need to cook at once? Think about the number of people you’re cooking for. Larger cookers are great for families or restaurants. Smaller ones are perfect for individuals or couples.
- Cooking Settings: Many rice cookers offer more than just “cook” and “warm.” Look for settings like “slow cook,” “steam,” “porridge,” or even specific rice types (like brown rice or sushi rice).
- Keep Warm Function: This keeps your rice at the perfect temperature after cooking. It’s a must-have feature for busy schedules.
- Fuzzy Logic/Microcomputer Technology: Some high-end models use smart technology to adjust cooking time and temperature based on the rice type and amount. This ensures perfectly cooked rice every time.
- Non-Stick Inner Pot: A non-stick inner pot makes cleanup a breeze. Look for durable, high-quality non-stick coatings.
- Automatic Shut-Off: Safety first! Automatic shut-off prevents accidents and saves energy.
Important Materials
The materials used directly affect the rice cooker’s durability and performance.
- Inner Pot: Stainless steel and non-stick coated aluminum are common. Stainless steel is durable and heats evenly. Non-stick is easier to clean.
- Exterior Housing: Plastic and stainless steel are popular choices. Stainless steel is more durable but can be heavier. Plastic is lighter but might not be as heat-resistant.
Factors Affecting Quality
Several things impact a rice cooker’s overall quality.
- Brand Reputation: Research brands known for making reliable appliances. Read reviews from other customers.
- Construction: A well-built rice cooker feels sturdy and has tight-fitting parts. Poorly made ones might feel flimsy.
- Warranty: A good warranty shows the manufacturer stands behind their product. Check what the warranty covers.
- Price: While more expensive doesn’t always mean better, high-quality components usually cost more.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you’ll use the rice cooker.
- Ease of Use: Simple controls and clear instructions are essential. Some models have digital displays, while others have basic buttons.
- Cleaning: A non-stick inner pot and dishwasher-safe parts make cleaning easier. Consider how much time you want to spend cleaning.
- Storage: Consider the rice cooker’s size and if it will fit easily in your kitchen.
- Restaurant Use: For restaurants, prioritize durability, large capacity, and features like multiple cooking settings.
- Home Use: For home use, consider capacity, ease of use, and features that meet your specific cooking needs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q: How long does a professional rice cooker last? A: With proper care, a good quality rice cooker can last for many years.
- Q: What’s the difference between a regular and professional rice cooker? A: Professional models often have larger capacities, more cooking settings, and are built for more frequent use.
- Q: Can I cook other things besides rice in a rice cooker? A: Many rice cookers can also steam vegetables, make porridge, or even slow cook.
- Q: How do I clean my rice cooker? A: Most inner pots are non-stick and can be washed with soap and water. Always unplug the cooker before cleaning.
- Q: What type of rice is best for a rice cooker? A: Medium-grain rice works best in most rice cookers. Always check the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Q: Should I rinse the rice before cooking? A: Yes, rinsing removes excess starch and results in fluffier rice.
- Q: What is fuzzy logic technology? A: Fuzzy logic uses sensors to adjust cooking time and temperature, creating perfect rice every time.
- Q: Is a stainless steel inner pot better than a non-stick one? A: Both have pros and cons. Stainless steel is more durable, while non-stick is easier to clean.
- Q: How much water should I use? A: The water-to-rice ratio varies depending on the rice type and your preference. Check the instructions or use the measurement markings on the inner pot.
- Q: What should I do if my rice is too hard or too soft? A: Adjust the water-to-rice ratio for your next batch. Too hard means less water, too soft means more water. Experiment to find what works best for you and your rice.
In conclusion, every product comes with its own unique set of features and benefits, and its value ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. We hope this review has helped you gain a clear understanding of whether this product aligns with your expectations. Remember, making an informed choice ensures you get the best experience possible.
If you have any questions or thoughts about this product, feel free to share them in the comments section. Your feedback not only helps us but also assists fellow readers in making better decisions. Thank you for reading.