How does the Aroma ARC-994SG stack up as the best rice cooker? In-depth review

Description

My Experience with the Digital Rice Cooker and Multicooker

A rice cooker that doubles as a slow cooker and steamer? That sounded like a dream for my small kitchen, so I had to try it out. This compact kitchen gadget has been a regular on my countertop for weeks now, and I’ve put it through its paces. From steaming veggies to cooking fluffy rice and even experimenting with slow-cooked meals, this device has been my trusty sidekick. But, like any gadget, it comes with its quirks.

Versatility in a Compact Package

This rice cooker doesn’t just cook rice. It’s like a Swiss Army knife for kitchen appliances. With six modes, including white rice, brown rice, steam, slow cook, and more, it transforms into what you need at the touch of a button. I’ve used the steam tray to cook broccoli while making quinoa below, and it’s been a lifesaver for quick, healthy dinners. The delay timer is another game-changer; having everything ready when you walk in the door is ridiculously satisfying.

The stainless steel exterior gives it a sleek look, and it doesn’t hog counter space. Its size is perfect for my small apartment kitchen, though I can see it being equally handy for families. However, I do wish the inner pot markings were easier to read. Those tiny water lines? Practically invisible. I ended up using a separate measuring cup because squinting at the pot wasn’t worth it.

Cooking Performance: The Good and the Not-So-Good

When it comes to rice, this gadget delivers—most of the time. My white rice was flawless after the first try. Each grain was fluffy, separate, and cooked evenly. Brown rice? That was a different story. The first batch came out a bit too firm because the water recommendations seemed off. After some trial and error, I figured out that adding more water and extending the cooking time works best. It’s a bit of a learning curve, but the results are worth it.

The sauté-then-simmer feature is another highlight. I used it for a risotto experiment, and it nailed the texture. Still, I wouldn’t recommend this device for people who are super impatient. Cooking times seem slightly longer than other rice cookers I’ve used, especially for brown rice or grains.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Cleaning up is a breeze. The non-stick pot ensures rice doesn’t stick too stubbornly, though I always hand wash it to keep the coating intact. The detachable accessories like the steam tray, spatula, and measuring cup are dishwasher-safe, which is a nice touch.

One minor annoyance is the condensation catcher. While it’s effective, it can be easy to forget to empty it, and it doesn’t feel as sturdy as I’d like. Still, it’s not a dealbreaker.

Pros

• Versatile Functions: It’s not just a rice cooker. You get a slow cooker, steamer, and grain cooker all in one.
• Compact and Lightweight: Perfect for small kitchens or limited storage.
• Delay Timer: Life-changing for busy schedules—set it and forget it.
• Easy Cleanup: Non-stick pot and dishwasher-safe accessories make cleanup effortless.
• Even Cooking: White rice, quinoa, and steamed veggies turn out great.

Cons

• Brown Rice Cooking: Requires tweaking water levels and cooking time.
• Slow Cooking Times: Takes longer compared to some other rice cookers.
• Hard-to-Read Inner Markings: Measuring water directly in the pot is tricky.
• Condensation Catcher: Feels a bit flimsy and easy to overlook.
• Limited Capacity: Not ideal for large gatherings or meal prep for a crowd.

Comparison to Competitors

I’ve played around with other rice cookers in the past, and while this one’s feature set is impressive, it doesn’t outshine all its competitors. The more expensive Zojirushi models, for example, offer better precision and faster cooking times. Their fuzzy logic technology adjusts cooking parameters on the go, which is something I craved when my brown rice came out subpar in this cooker.

On the flip side, this device costs much less and offers more versatility than a basic Panasonic model, which lacks the steamer and slow-cook functions entirely. If you’re looking for an all-in-one gadget and don’t mind the occasional experimentation, this rice cooker holds its own. However, if you’re a perfectionist about rice, you might prefer a Zojirushi.

Cost Analysis and Value for Money

This rice cooker comes at a budget-friendly price, especially considering all the features packed inside. It’s cheaper than standalone slow cookers, steamer units, or premium rice cookers, making it a great multitasker for the price. That said, the slightly longer cooking times and the learning curve for certain settings might make someone think twice. For casual cooks and multi-purpose appliance lovers like me, it’s a worthwhile investment. However, if you’re purely after precision rice cooking, there are more specialized options out there.

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