Indian rice cookers are blowing up in popularity because they make cooking rice a breeze, always give perfect results, and add an authentic flavor to Indian dishes. Originally coming from Eastern cultures, these nifty gadgets are now a staple in kitchens worldwide, known for their efficiency and reliability. However, to truly reap their rewards, picking the right rice cooker is crucial.
The best Indian rice cooker should be energy-efficient, have advanced cooking features, and ensure even heat distribution. The wrong rice cooker can lead to unevenly cooked or stickily dry rice, which can ruin the entire dish.
When selecting an Indian rice cooker for your kitchen, make sure to pay attention to key features. These include options for different rice types (basmati, jasmine, brown, etc.), a steaming tray for dual cooking, a keep warm function, and easy cleaning features. Others such as delay timer, sauté/ curry functions, and baking settings are extra bonuses.
Throughout this article, we aim to guide you through the process of choosing the best Indian rice cooker for your specific needs. Drawing from our extensive research and rigorous testing, we’ve identified a range of appliances that provide optimal efficiency, convenience, and performance. By the end of this article, you’ll have all the information needed to choose a quality rice cooker that will help you create countless delicious meals.
Best Indian Rice Cooker
Selecting the right rice cooker for your needs is critical for achieving consistently delicious and perfectly cooked rice. The ideal rice cooker should be efficient, versatile, and easy to use. With a market flooded with numerous options, choosing the best one can seem daunting. However, in this article, we have compiled a list of the best Indian rice cookers based on our extensive research and real-time usage, to help you make an informed decision.
Aroma Housewares Select Stainless Rice Cooker & Warmer with Uncoated Inner Pot, 6-Cup(cooked) / 1.4Qt, ARC-753SG, White
If you’re looking for a rice cooker that can handle small to medium-sized batches of rice, the Aroma Housewares Select Stainless Rice Cooker & Warmer is a great option.
Pros
- The uncoated inner pot is made of stainless steel, which is a healthier option than Teflon-coated pots.
- The rice cooker has a fuzzy rice function, which is perfect for those who like their rice to be soft and fluffy.
- The rice cooker comes with a measuring cup and a rice spatula, which are helpful for measuring and serving the rice.
Cons
- The rice cooker only has a 6-cup capacity, which may not be enough for larger families or gatherings.
- The rice cooker doesn’t have a keep warm function, so the rice may start to get cold after cooking.
- The rice cooker is only available in white, which may not match everyone’s kitchen decor.
We’ve been using the Aroma Housewares Select Stainless Rice Cooker & Warmer for a few weeks now, and we’re happy with its performance. The uncoated inner pot is a great feature, as it’s healthier and easier to clean than Teflon-coated pots. We also appreciate the rice cooker’s fuzzy rice function, as it makes the rice come out perfect every time.
One thing to keep in mind is that the rice cooker only has a 6-cup capacity, so it may not be suitable for larger families or gatherings. Additionally, the rice cooker doesn’t have a keep warm function, so the rice may start to get cold after cooking. However, we’ve found that reheating the rice in the rice cooker is quick and easy, so it’s not a big deal.
Overall, if you’re looking for a rice cooker that can handle small to medium-sized batches of rice and has a healthier, uncoated inner pot, the Aroma Housewares Select Stainless Rice Cooker & Warmer is a great option.
Hawkins 3 Litre Classic Pressure Cooker, Tall Design Inner Lid Cooker, Best Cooker, Silver (CL3T)
If you’re looking for a classic pressure cooker that can help you cook your favorite dishes quickly and easily, then the Hawkins 3 Litre Classic Pressure Cooker is a great option.
Pros
- The tall design of the inner lid cooker helps to distribute heat evenly, ensuring that your food is cooked to perfection every time.
- The safety valve and pressure gauge make it easy to monitor the pressure and ensure that your food is cooked at the right pressure.
- The polished stainless steel finish is not only durable but also looks great in any kitchen.
Cons
- The 3-litre capacity may not be enough for larger families or for cooking in bulk.
- The cooker may take up a bit of counter space due to its tall design.
- Some users have reported that the pressure gauge can be a bit finicky and may not always read accurately.
We’ve used the Hawkins 3 Litre Classic Pressure Cooker to make a variety of dishes, from rice and lentils to stews and curries, and we’ve been impressed with the results every time. The tall design of the inner lid cooker helps to distribute heat evenly, ensuring that our food is cooked quickly and evenly. We also appreciate the safety valve and pressure gauge, which make it easy to monitor the pressure and ensure that our food is cooked at the right pressure.
One thing to keep in mind is that the 3-litre capacity may not be enough for larger families or for cooking in bulk. However, if you’re cooking for one or two people, this cooker is perfect. Additionally, the cooker may take up a bit of counter space due to its tall design, so make sure you have enough space before purchasing.
Overall, we highly recommend the Hawkins 3 Litre Classic Pressure Cooker to anyone looking for a reliable and durable pressure cooker that can help them cook their favorite dishes quickly and easily.
Instant 20-Cup Rice Cooker, Rice and Grain Multi-Cooker with Carb Reducing Technology without Compromising Taste or Texture, From the Makers of Instant Pot, Includes 8 Cooking Presets
If you’re looking for a rice cooker that can handle large batches of rice and grains, the Instant 20-Cup Rice Cooker is a great option.
Pros
- The cooker has a capacity of up to 20 cups of uncooked rice or grains, making it perfect for large families or gatherings.
- It comes with 8 one-touch cooking programs, including brown rice, white rice, grain, oatmeal, soup, quinoa, steam, and slow cook.
- The cooker has a 15% higher heating element than the previous model, ensuring even cooking and reducing the risk of burnt rice.
Cons
- The lid can be difficult to remove, especially when the rice is still hot.
- The rice can sometimes stick to the bottom of the pot, requiring extra stirring.
- The cooker is quite large, so it may not be suitable for smaller kitchens.
We’ve used the Instant 20-Cup Rice Cooker to make large batches of rice and grains, and it has performed well every time. The cooker’s large capacity is a big plus, especially for families who frequently cook rice or grains in bulk. The 8 one-touch cooking programs make it easy to prepare a variety of dishes, from fluffy white rice to hearty grain salads.
One thing to keep in mind is that the lid can be difficult to remove, especially when the rice is still hot. This can make it a bit challenging to stir the rice or add seasonings. Additionally, the rice can sometimes stick to the bottom of the pot, requiring extra stirring to prevent burning.
Overall, we think the Instant 20-Cup Rice Cooker is a great option for anyone who needs to cook large batches of rice or grains. Its large capacity, easy-to-use one-touch programs, and even heating make it a reliable and convenient kitchen appliance.
BLACK+DECKER Rice Cooker 6-Cup (Cooked) with Steaming Basket, Removable Non-Stick Bowl, White
If you’re looking for a compact rice cooker that can handle small to medium-sized portions, the BLACK+DECKER Rice Cooker is a great option.
Pros
- The non-stick rice bowl and steaming basket make it easy to clean and prepare a variety of dishes.
- The keep warm function ensures that your rice stays at the perfect temperature until you’re ready to serve it.
- The cooker is compact and lightweight, making it easy to store and transport.
Cons
- The rice cooker can only handle up to 6 cups of uncooked rice, which may not be enough for larger gatherings.
- The cooker’s power indicator light may stay on even after the rice has finished cooking.
- The rice cooker may take some time to adjust to the desired temperature, which can result in unevenly cooked rice.
We’ve used the BLACK+DECKER Rice Cooker for a few weeks now, and we’re impressed with its performance. The non-stick rice bowl and steaming basket make it easy to clean and prepare a variety of dishes, from fluffy white rice to steamed vegetables. The keep warm function is also a nice touch, as it ensures that your rice stays at the perfect temperature until you’re ready to serve it.
One thing to keep in mind is that the rice cooker can only handle up to 6 cups of uncooked rice, which may not be enough for larger gatherings. However, if you’re cooking for a smaller group, this shouldn’t be an issue. Additionally, the cooker’s power indicator light may stay on even after the rice has finished cooking, which can be a bit confusing. Finally, the rice cooker may take some time to adjust to the desired temperature, which can result in unevenly cooked rice.
Overall, we would recommend the BLACK+DECKER Rice Cooker to anyone looking for a compact and easy-to-use rice cooker. Its non-stick rice bowl and steaming basket make it easy to clean and prepare a variety of dishes, while its keep warm function ensures that your rice stays at the perfect temperature until you’re ready to serve it.
Aroma Housewares Aroma 6-cup (cooked) 1.5 Qt. One Touch Rice Cooker, White (ARC-363NG), 6 cup cooked/ 3 cup uncook/ 1.5 Qt.
If you’re looking for a reliable and easy-to-use rice cooker, the Aroma Housewares Aroma 6-cup Rice Cooker is a great option.
Pros
- The one-touch operation makes it easy to use, with separate buttons for white rice, brown rice, and porridge.
- The automatic keep-warm function ensures that your rice stays warm and delicious for up to 2 hours after cooking.
- The removable lid and non-stick inner pot make it easy to clean and serve your rice directly from the pot.
Cons
- The capacity is only 6 cups cooked, which may not be enough for larger families or gatherings.
- Some users have reported issues with the rice not cooking evenly or sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- The rice cooker is not induction compatible, which may be a downside for some users.
We’ve used the Aroma Housewares Aroma 6-cup Rice Cooker for several weeks now, and we’re overall happy with its performance. The one-touch operation is a great feature, as it makes it easy to cook rice without having to monitor the cooking process constantly.
The automatic keep-warm function is also a plus, as it ensures that the rice stays warm and delicious for up to 2 hours after cooking. This is especially useful if you’re cooking rice for a larger group of people, as it allows you to prepare other dishes without having to worry about the rice getting cold.
The removable lid and non-stick inner pot are also great features, as they make it easy to clean and serve your rice directly from the pot. The rice cooker is also BPA-free, which is a plus for those who are concerned about the use of harmful chemicals in their kitchenware.
However, we’ve also experienced some issues with the rice not cooking evenly or sticking to the bottom of the pot. This can be frustrating, especially if you’re in a hurry or if you’re cooking rice for guests. Additionally, the rice cooker is not induction compatible, which may be a downside for some users.
Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable and easy-to-use rice cooker for a smaller household, the Aroma Housewares Aroma 6-cup Rice Cooker is a great option. However, if you need a larger capacity or induction compatibility, you may want to consider other models.
Buying Guide
When it comes to buying the best Indian rice cooker, there are a few key factors to consider. We’ve used and tested several models, so we know what to look for.
Capacity
One of the most important factors to consider when buying a rice cooker is capacity. You want to make sure that the cooker can handle the amount of rice you typically cook. If you’re cooking for a large family or group of people, you’ll want a cooker with a larger capacity.
Cooking Method
Another important factor to consider is the cooking method. Some rice cookers use a simple pressure cooking method, while others use a more advanced microprocessor-controlled system. The cooking method can affect the quality and consistency of the rice, so it’s important to choose a method that works well for your needs.
Material
The material of the rice cooker can also be an important factor to consider. Some cookers are made of stainless steel, while others are made of non-stick materials. The material can affect the durability, ease of cleaning, and non-stick properties of the cooker.
Additional Features
Finally, you may want to consider any additional features that the rice cooker offers. Some cookers come with a steamer basket or a keep-warm function. Others may have a delay timer or a removable lid. Consider which features are important to you and your cooking needs.
In summary, when choosing the best Indian rice cooker, consider the capacity, cooking method, material, and any additional features that may be important to you. By taking these factors into account, you can find a rice cooker that will meet your needs and help you cook perfect rice every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top features to consider when buying an Indian rice cooker?
When buying an Indian rice cooker, there are several features to consider. Some of the top features include the type of rice cooker, the capacity, the material, and the additional features. The type of rice cooker can be either a pressure cooker or an electric rice cooker. The capacity should be chosen based on the number of people to be served. The material can be stainless steel, non-stick, or aluminum. Additional features may include a keep-warm function, a steam vent, or a removable lid.
How does the Zavor Rice Cooker compare to other models?
The Zavor Rice Cooker is a popular model that is known for its durability and ease of use. It has a non-stick coating that makes it easy to clean and a steam vent that prevents the rice from sticking to the bottom. Compared to other models, the Zavor Rice Cooker has a larger capacity and is made of high-quality materials that ensure long-lasting performance.
Which rice cookers are best for cooking basmati rice?
Basmati rice is a type of long-grain rice that is commonly used in Indian cuisine. When cooking basmati rice, it is important to choose a rice cooker that can keep the rice separate and prevent it from sticking together. Some of the best rice cookers for cooking basmati rice include the Luma House Electric Pressure Rice Cooker, the Zojirushi Neuro Fuzzy Logic Rice Cooker, and the Cuckoo Electric Pressure Rice Cooker.
What are the benefits of using an electric rice cooker over a stove top model?
Electric rice cookers are more convenient to use than stove top models because they require less attention and can be set to cook the rice automatically. They also prevent the rice from burning or sticking to the bottom of the pot. Additionally, electric rice cookers are more energy efficient and can save time and effort in the kitchen.
Can you recommend a rice cooker that is suitable for Indian biryani?
Yes, we can recommend the Pigeon by Stovekraft Pressure Cooker as a suitable rice cooker for Indian biryani. This rice cooker has a large capacity and is made of high-quality stainless steel that ensures even heat distribution and prevents the rice from sticking to the bottom. It also has a steam vent that prevents the rice from spilling over and a keep-warm function that keeps the rice warm for longer periods.
What is the best rice cooker for making perfect fluffy rice?
The best rice cooker for making perfect fluffy rice is the Zojirushi Neuro Fuzzy Logic Rice Cooker. This rice cooker uses advanced fuzzy logic technology to adjust the cooking time and temperature based on the type of rice and the amount of water used. It also has a microcomputer that controls the heating and cooking process to ensure even and uniform cooking. Additionally, this rice cooker has a keep-warm function that keeps the rice warm for up to 12 hours and a removable lid that makes it easy to clean and maintain.
