Cooking perfect brown rice can be a challenge for any home chef. Unlike white rice, brown rice requires precise temperature control and longer cooking times to achieve its signature nutty flavor and pleasantly chewy texture. The right rice cooker makes this process effortless, consistently delivering fluffy, separate grains every time.
This roundup features ten excellent rice cookers, from compact models for singles to advanced multi-cookers for families. Whether you prioritize simplicity, smart technology, or multi-function versatility, there is an option here to help you master the art of brown rice.
Our Selection of the Best Rice Cookers
- Midea Mb-fs5017 10 Cup Smart Multi-cooker
- Zojirushi NS-YAC18 Umami Micom Rice Cooker
- Rival 6-Cup Rice Cooker with Steamer Basket
- Panasonic 5 Cup Rice Cooker with Fuzzy Logic
- Breville BRC600XL The Risotto Plus Rice Cooker
- Cuisinart 8-Cup Rice Cooker, Silver
- Oster 20-Cup Digital Rice Cooker
- Dash Mini Rice Cooker Steamer
- Aroma Housewares Professional Plus Digital Rice Cooker
- Zojirushi NS-ZCC10 Neuro Fuzzy Rice Cooker
Midea Mb-fs5017 10 Cup Smart Multi-cooker
This versatile 5-quart appliance from Midea is a true kitchen helper. It functions as a rice cooker, steamer, and slow cooker, making it ideal for preparing complete meals with minimal effort. Its 10-cup capacity is well-suited for families or meal prepping, and the brushed brown finish offers a modern look.
The smart multi-cooker design means you can prepare your brown rice while simultaneously steaming vegetables or proteins in the included basket. With 875 watts of power, it cooks efficiently, and its automatic keep-warm function ensures your rice is ready when you are.
Zojirushi NS-YAC18 Umami Micom Rice Cooker
Zojirushi is renowned for its advanced rice cooking technology, and the NS-YAC18 model is a standout. Its micro-computerized Fuzzy logic system makes delicate adjustments to time and temperature, which is particularly beneficial for cooking perfect brown rice. The dedicated Umami setting goes a step further by soaking and steaming the rice longer to enhance its natural flavor.
Beyond rice, this cooker includes a slow cook function for preparing soups and other dishes. The 10-cup capacity and durable nonstick inner pot make it a reliable choice for daily use, and its pearl white design is both elegant and functional.
Rival 6-Cup Rice Cooker with Steamer Basket
For those seeking a simple, effective, and affordable option, the Rival 6-cup model is an excellent choice. Its straightforward operation makes cooking brown rice easy: just add rice and water, and press the button. The nonstick inner pot ensures easy cleanup, and the domed glass lid lets you monitor the cooking process.
The included steaming basket adds great utility, allowing you to cook vegetables or shrimp above your rice for a healthy, complete meal. This compact cooker is perfect for smaller households or as a secondary appliance for dorm rooms or offices.
Panasonic 5 Cup Rice Cooker with Fuzzy Logic
Panasonic brings high-end induction cooking technology to a compact 5-cup model. This method creates an electrical current inside the pot itself for even, precise heating that is ideal for brown rice. The advanced Fuzzy logic micro-computer automatically adjusts cooking times and temperatures for consistent, restaurant-quality results.
With one-touch cooking, you can select a pre-programmed setting for brown rice, white rice, porridge, and more. This cooker excels at handling different rice types and textures, making it a smart investment for anyone serious about their grains.
Breville BRC600XL The Risotto Plus Rice Cooker
Breville’s Risotto Plus is a sophisticated multi-cooker designed for the creative home cook. Its standout feature is a dedicated risotto function that creates creamy results without constant stirring. This same precision is applied to brown rice, quinoa, and other whole grains.
With a 10-cup uncooked capacity, it can handle large batches. The unit also functions as a steamer and a slow cooker, allowing you to prepare a wide range of meals. Its sauté-then-simmer capability means you can build flavors directly in the cooking bowl.
Cuisinart 8-Cup Rice Cooker, Silver
This Cuisinart model combines sleek, modern design with reliable performance. The brushed stainless steel exterior fits well in any kitchen, and the square shape is space-efficient. It can make 8 to 15 cups of cooked rice, serving small gatherings with ease.
It includes a stainless-steel steaming basket and a non-stick coated cooking bowl for easy serving and cleanup. The appliance automatically switches to a keep-warm function when cooking is done, and features convenient retractable cord storage.
Oster 20-Cup Digital Rice Cooker
For large families or frequent entertainers, the Oster 20-cup digital cooker offers substantial capacity. Its digital controls are user-friendly, with five versatile cooking functions including a specific setting for brown rice, as well as steam, soup, and breakfast options.
A convenient delay timer allows you to set the cooker to start at a specific time, perfect for having rice ready exactly when you need it. The stainless-steel design is durable, and its ability to cook soups and hot cereals makes it a versatile kitchen appliance.
Dash Mini Rice Cooker Steamer
The Dash Mini is the perfect solution for singles, small portions, or dorm rooms. Its compact 2-cup capacity promotes portion control and is ideal for preparing individual meals. Despite its size, it’s more than just a rice cooker; it can handle oatmeal, stew, soup, quinoa, and pasta.
Operation is incredibly simple with a one-button design. The updated keep-warm function prevents overcooking, and the removable nonstick pot makes cleanup quick. Its small footprint and variety of color options add a fun touch to limited counter space.
Aroma Housewares Professional Plus Digital Rice Cooker
This Aroma model is a powerhouse of functionality at a great value. It serves as a digital rice cooker, food steamer, and slow cooker. Unique features like Saute-then-Simmer (STS) allow you to brown ingredients before slow cooking, building deeper flavors for soups and stews.
The built-in steam function lets you cook nutrient-rich vegetables or proteins above while rice cooks below. With a 20-cup cooked capacity, it’s built for larger meals, and its ability to even bake a cake demonstrates remarkable versatility.
Zojirushi NS-ZCC10 Neuro Fuzzy Rice Cooker
Zojirushi’s Neuro Fuzzy line represents the brand’s commitment to intelligent cooking. This technology allows the cooker to “think” for itself, making micro-adjustments throughout the cooking cycle to achieve perfect results. For brown rice, this means optimal texture and full flavor development.
Expect the same high-quality construction and user-friendly programming Zojirushi is known for, including multiple menu settings and a reliable keep-warm function. This cooker is designed for those who want set-it-and-forget-it convenience with consistently excellent outcomes.
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How to Choose a Rice Cooker for Perfect Brown Rice
If you’re looking for the best rice cookers for perfect brown rice, you know it’s a different beast than white rice. I’ve learned that not all cookers are created equal for those chewy, nutty grains. The main thing to understand is that brown rice has a tough bran layer. To soften it properly, you need consistent, longer heat and often a bit more water. A basic cooker might get it done, but a good one makes it foolproof and delicious every time.
First, consider the cooking technology. Fuzzy logic is a game-changer. These smart cookers have microchips that adjust temperature and cooking time based on what’s in the pot. They sense moisture and can even make adjustments for altitude. For brown rice, this means the cooker can extend the cooking cycle and use a precise temperature to ensure the inside is tender without burning the outside. Pressure cooking models are another fantastic option. By building up steam pressure, they cook brown rice faster and can make it incredibly soft and consistent.
Next, look at the inner pot. A heavy, multi-layered pot (like aluminum coated with ceramic or non-stick) distributes heat evenly. This prevents hot spots that can lead to scorching. A good non-stick coating also makes cleanup from those sticky bran layers much easier. Capacity is personal, but remember brown rice often expands a bit more than white. If you usually cook for two, a 3-cup (uncooked) model might be perfect. For families, 5.5 cups or more is a better bet.
Don’t ignore the keep-warm function. Since brown rice takes longer, you might not always eat it right away. A good keep-warm will maintain texture without drying it out or forming a hard crust on the bottom for hours. Finally, look for a specific brown rice setting. While fuzzy logic cookers automatically handle it, some basic models have a dedicated button that simply extends the cooking time, which is a helpful feature to have. Your goal is to find a machine that takes the guesswork out of the process, so you get perfect brown rice without having to babysit the pot.
FAQ
Why does my brown rice turn out crunchy or hard in my basic rice cooker?
This is the most common issue. Basic, on/off cookers often use a fixed cooking time and temperature designed for white rice. Brown rice’s bran layer needs a longer, gentler cook to allow heat and moisture to penetrate fully. Without that extended cycle, the inside stays hard. Using the “white rice” setting for brown rice is usually the culprit.
Is a special setting for brown rice really necessary?
It’s highly recommended, but not an absolute must if you have a smarter cooker. On a fuzzy logic model, the “brown rice” setting is optimized, but the cooker’s sensors will still do a great job if you just use the standard setting. On a simpler machine, a dedicated button is crucial because it changes the cooking algorithm to add more time and often a different heat pattern.
How much more water should I use for brown rice versus white?
The rule of thumb is to add about ¼ to ½ cup more water per cup of brown rice than you would for white. However, this can vary by brand and cooker. Your best bet is to start with the water line markers inside the pot specific to brown rice if your cooker has them. If not, check the manual for the manufacturer’s recommendation, as it’s calibrated for your specific model.
Can I cook other grains in a cooker good for brown rice?
Absolutely! One of the joys of owning a cooker with fuzzy logic or multiple settings is its versatility. These machines typically have settings for steel-cut oats, quinoa, porridge, sushi rice, and even soups or stews. The even heating and precise control that makes for perfect brown rice also makes it fantastic for other whole grains that can be tricky on the stovetop.
What’s the main benefit of a pressure cooker rice cooker for brown rice?
Speed and texture. A pressure cooker model, like those from Instant Pot or Zojirushi’s high-end lines, can cut the cooking time for brown rice nearly in half. The pressurized steam forces moisture into the grain more efficiently, which can also result in a slightly softer, more uniformly tender texture that some people prefer. It’s a great way to get your healthy grains on the table faster.
How do I clean my rice cooker after making brown rice?
Always unplug the unit and let it cool first. The inner non-stick pot usually cleans easily with warm, soapy water and a soft sponge. Avoid abrasive scrubbers. For any stubborn bits from the bran, let the pot soak. Wipe the main housing, heating plate, and lid with a damp cloth. Make sure the steam vent (if present) is clear. Regular cleaning prevents residue buildup that can affect future batches of rice.