4 Tips on Choosing a Rice Cooker Inner Pot Replacement
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A rice cooker is a handy, time-saving, and energy-saving device in the kitchen that not only makes a perfect batch of warm rice every time but also makes a host of dishes. Rice cookers can take a banging up in the kitchen, however, it also has several removable parts that can break in due time.
One of the parts that take most of the brunt of cooking and can wear out over time is the rice cooker’s inner pot. If you’re due for an inner pot replacement, here are some tips to consider as you pick out the most suitable one for your rice cooker.
Consider the Inner Pot Material
You might have just been using the inner pot that came with your rice cooker but now that it’s time to replace it, you might be thinking of just getting the same thing. Well, did you know that there are several kinds of rice cooker inner pots that are made with specific materials and come with their own advantages and disadvantages?
A rice cooker inner pot can be aluminum, ceramic, stainless steel, or clay.
Most basic rice cookers come with an aluminum inner pot that has a non-stick coating. And while it may be enough for some, others shun it due to chemical concerns.
On the other hand, a ceramic inner pot is a popular choice for most people as not only does it have a non-stick coating, but it is also the most effective and safest type. Ceramic inner pots have great thermal properties which allow an even temperature distribution. The downside is that ceramic inner pots can be quite expensive and need to be taken care of.
A stainless steel inner pot is another popular choice thanks to its durability and versatility. It also distributes heat quite evenly. However, a lot of individuals also have trouble with a stainless steel pot as it can get easily dented and scratched.
Burnt rice can also be a pain to scratch off the pot’s surface. Price-wise, it’s more expensive than an aluminum pot but more affordable than a ceramic inner pot.
If you’re on the road to eating healthy, you may want to consider a clay inner pot. This type of pot is one of the healthiest options as it has no coatings, no additives, and no potentially harmful chemicals. Its thermal properties are also ideal as it heats up quickly and retains heat longer than other inner pot types.
However, clay pots are priced steeply and aren’t as durable as other pot types. There are also inner pots that are made with hybrid materials, but you can expect them to be priced on the higher end as well.
Consider Ease of Use
Aside from evaluating the material of your inner pot, it’s also important to think about how easy it is to use. Some inner pots have small handles that you can use to lift them out of the cooker or to move them around. Other inner pots can also be served right on the dining table.
Another thing to take note of is the measuring level lines on the inside of the pot. The lines are there to assist individuals with the exact quantity of water needed for the perfect rice.
Most basic inner pots will only have a white rice level line. Other inner pots may indicate level lines for different types of rice. The look of the measuring levels is also important. Some inner pots have them printed on and may fade over time. Others have them stamped on or embossed on the bowl itself, making them last longer and easier to read.
Bring Your Rice Cooker When Shopping
As much as possible, you should bring your rice cooker with you when you are shopping for an inner pot replacement. Sure, you may be able to measure your rice cooker and broken inner pot, but sometimes, what seems like a good fit in the store doesn’t end up fitting well when taken home.
A lot of times, an inner pan could also look bigger or smaller than it really is, especially when you don’t have your rice cooker as a basis.
Stick With the Original Manufacturer
If all else fails and you can’t find the perfect inner pot replacement for your rice cooker, maybe it’s best to acquire the same type of inner pot from the maker of your rice cooker. After all, you can’t go wrong with buying from the same manufacturer. And who knows, the knowledgable staff of the original manufacturer may also be able to help you out if they have other kinds of inner pots in their product line.
Final Note
It may feel like the end of the world the moment that your rice cooker’s inner pot breaks down, but don’t lose hope just yet. You don’t have to replace your entire rice cooker for you can definitely buy a replacement for the inner pot. Consider the tips we’ve mentioned and surely, you’ll be able to find one that suits you best.
