A Closer Look at the Best Commercial Rice Cookers

Rice is a staple food in many parts of the world, and it can be cooked in various ways. One popular method is by using a rice cooker. A commercial rice cooker is a great investment for restaurants, catering businesses, and other food establishments that need to cook large quantities of rice quickly and consistently. In this article, we will take a closer look at the best commercial rice cookers in the market today.

1. What is a commercial rice cooker?

A commercial rice cooker is a kitchen appliance designed specifically for cooking rice in large quantities. They are usually made of high-quality materials to withstand the demands of commercial use. These rice cookers have larger capacities than regular rice cookers, and they come with additional features like timers, automatic shut-off, and keep-warm functions.

2. Types of commercial rice cookers

There are two main types of commercial rice cookers: the traditional electric rice cooker and the induction rice cooker.

Electric rice cookers

Electric rice cookers work by heating a bowl of water to boiling point, then adding rice to the boiling water. The rice absorbs the water, and the cooker automatically switches to a lower temperature to keep the rice warm. These cookers are simple to use, affordable, and easy to clean.

Induction rice cookers

Induction rice cookers use electromagnetic energy to heat the rice. They are more expensive than electric rice cookers, but they are also more efficient and produce better quality rice. Induction rice cookers are faster to cook, and they distribute heat evenly across the entire pot.

3. Features to consider when buying a commercial rice cooker

When choosing a commercial rice cooker, there are several features to consider:

Capacity

Consider the amount of rice your business needs to cook on a daily basis. Choose a rice cooker with a capacity that can handle your needs.

Cooking time

The cooking time of a rice cooker is important, especially during peak hours. Look for a rice cooker that can cook rice quickly without compromising its quality.

Ease of use

Choose a rice cooker that is easy to operate and clean. Some models come with removable parts that can be washed separately.

Keep-warm function

A keep-warm function is essential for commercial rice cookers. It allows the rice to stay warm and moist until it is ready to be served.

Durability

Commercial rice cookers are subjected to heavy use, so choose a model made of high-quality materials that can withstand daily wear and tear.

4. Top commercial rice cookers in the market

Here are some of the best commercial rice cookers available in the market today:

1. Zojirushi Commercial Rice Cooker Warmer

The Zojirushi commercial rice cooker is a top-of-the-line model that features an easy-to-use digital panel, a durable stainless steel body, and a large capacity of up to 10 cups of uncooked rice. It has a quick-cooking feature, a keep-warm function, and a detachable inner lid for easy cleaning.

2. Aroma Housewares 60-Cup (Cooked) Commercial Rice Cooker

This commercial rice cooker from Aroma Housewares can cook up to 60 cups of cooked rice at a time, making it ideal for large food establishments. It has a simple one-touch operation, a keep-warm function, and a non-stick inner pot for easy cleaning.

3. Panasonic SR-GA721L Commercial Rice Cooker

The Panasonic commercial rice cooker has a 40-cup capacity and comes with a convenient carrying handle for easy transportation. It has a built-in thermostat that automatically switches from cooking to warming mode, and a durable non-stick aluminum inner pan.

4. Tiger JNP-S Series Commercial Rice Cooker

The Tiger commercial rice cooker has a 10-cup capacity and features a non-stick inner pot, a keep-warm function, and a retractable power cord for easy storage. It also comes with a measuring cup and a serving spatula.

5. Conclusion

Investing in a commercial rice cooker is a smart move for any food establishment that serves rice dishes regularly. Consider the features you need based on your business’s requirements, and choose a model that is durable, efficient, and easy to use. With the right commercial rice cooker, you can cook large quantities of rice quickly and consistently, ensuring your customers are satisfied every time.

FAQs

1. What is the difference between a commercial rice cooker and a regular rice cooker? A commercial rice cooker is designed for heavy duty use in restaurants and other food establishments, while a regular rice cooker is suitable for home use.

2. Can I cook other grains besides rice in a commercial rice cooker? Yes, some commercial rice cookers have settings for cooking other grains like quinoa, oatmeal, and barley. Make sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions before trying to cook other grains.

3. How do I clean a commercial rice cooker? Most commercial rice cookers come with removable parts that can be washed separately. Make sure to unplug the rice cooker and allow it to cool down before cleaning. Use a soft sponge or cloth to clean the inner pot, and avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that can damage the non-stick coating.

4. Can I use a commercial rice cooker to cook other dishes besides rice? While commercial rice cookers are designed specifically for cooking rice, some models have settings for steaming vegetables, meats, and seafood. Check the manual to see if your rice cooker has this feature.

5. How long does it take to cook rice in a commercial rice cooker? The cooking time depends on the type of rice and the capacity of the rice cooker. Most commercial rice cookers can cook white rice in around 20-25 minutes, while brown rice may take up to 45 minutes. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cooking times and water-to-rice ratios.