AROMA Rice Cooker and Food Steamer ARC-747-1NGR Review Easy Cooking and Steaming

Description

Design and Build Quality

The Aroma Housewares 14-Cup Pot Style Rice Cooker and Food Steamer (ARC-747-1NGR) immediately stands out with its vibrant red finish. It’s compact yet spacious enough to handle a variety of cooking tasks. The tempered glass lid is a nice touch, allowing you to peek in without lifting it and interrupting the cooking process. Its lightweight design (just 2.46 pounds) makes it easy to move around the kitchen or store away, though it doesn’t feel flimsy at all. The non-stick aluminum inner pot not only ensures hassle-free cooking but also simplifies cleanup. I appreciated the inclusion of a measuring cup, serving spatula, and a steam tray, which eliminates the need to hunt for compatible accessories. The ergonomic one-touch operation button is straightforward, but I did wonder if it could’ve benefited from a more modern touch interface like some competitors.

Performance and Versatility

Using this corded electric rice cooker has been a pleasant experience. The 14-cup capacity (cooked rice) is ideal for family meals or small gatherings. I tried cooking just 4 cups as well, and the results were equally good, which shows its flexibility. One of its standout features is the dual functionality—it simultaneously steams meats and vegetables while cooking rice below. I used the steam tray to prepare salmon and broccoli, and they turned out moist and flavorful, with minimal effort. This feature is a real time-saver for busy days. Beyond rice, I’ve also tried making oatmeal and even some vegetable soup. The keep-warm mode, which automatically activates post-cooking, ensures food remains at the perfect temperature without overcooking. However, the absence of advanced cooking presets or a timer might be a drawback for some.

Key Benefits

• Large capacity accommodates up to 14 cups of cooked rice, making it perfect for family meals.
• Multifunctional design allows for simultaneous cooking and steaming, saving time and effort.
• Non-stick inner pot ensures easy cleanup and prevents food from sticking.
• One-touch operation simplifies the cooking process for beginners and experts alike.

Critiques

The Aroma ARC-747-1NGR, while highly functional, does have a few shortcomings:

• The lack of a digital timer means you need to keep an eye on the cooking progress manually.
• Its basic design might not appeal to those looking for more modern aesthetics or advanced features.
• While the one-touch operation is convenient, it limits customization for specific cooking preferences.

Good Points

There are several positives that make this cooker a reliable choice:

• The lightweight build makes it easy to transport and store.
• Versatility in preparing a wide range of dishes, from rice and soups to steamed vegetables and meats.
• Accessories like the serving spatula and measuring cup add to the overall value.
• The dishwasher-safe components save time during cleanup.

Areas for Improvement

Despite its strengths, there are a few areas of concern worth addressing:

• A delay timer or preset cooking modes would greatly enhance its functionality.
• The power cord feels slightly short, limiting placement options in the kitchen.
• The 700-watt output, while sufficient for basic tasks, might seem underpowered compared to some premium models.

Competing Products

When comparing this rice cooker to other models, a few key differences stand out. The Zojirushi Neuro Fuzzy Rice Cooker, for instance, offers advanced features like fuzzy logic technology for precise cooking, but it comes at a significantly higher price point. Meanwhile, the Hamilton Beach Digital Rice Cooker includes a delay start timer and multiple cooking presets, making it a better option for tech-savvy users. However, both competitors lack the simplicity and straightforward operation of the Aroma ARC-747-1NGR. The non-stick pot and dishwasher-safe components of this product are on par with pricier alternatives, making it a strong contender for those prioritizing ease of use and maintenance.

Price Worthiness

The Aroma ARC-747-1NGR strikes a good balance between affordability and functionality. While it doesn’t boast the bells and whistles of high-end models, its practical features and reliable performance make it a valuable addition to most kitchens. For anyone seeking a no-frills rice cooker that gets the job done efficiently, this product offers excellent value for its price. However, if you’re someone who loves experimenting with various cooking techniques or needs advanced options, you might want to explore other models that cater to those preferences.

Additional information