About Presto Rice Cooker
The Presto Rice Cooker/Steamer, a 16-Cup Digital Stainless Steel appliance, is a versatile addition to your kitchenware. This efficient cooker promises perfection every time, effortlessly cooking both white and brown rice. It features intuitive digital push-button controls, simplifying your culinary journey.
Notably, this appliance also contains an automatic switch to a keep-warm mode once the cooking is completed, ensuring your meal stays at the ideal temperature. Additionally, its multi-functionality allows you to steam vegetables while cooking rice, further enhancing your cooking convenience and efficiency.
Important Safeguards for the Presto Rice Cooker
Understanding the safeguards for your Presto Rice Cooker is crucial in ensuring its longevity and your safety while using it. Here is a condensed list of the safety measures recommended by the manufacturers:
- Careful Reading: Thoroughly read all instructions before using the appliance.
- Avoid Hot Surfaces: Refrain from touching hot surfaces; use the handles or knobs instead.
- Prevent Electric Shock: Ensure the cord, plug, or rice cooker base is not immersed in water or any other liquid.
- Proper Cooking Container: Use only the provided removable pot for cooking and do not exceed the “MAX” fill level to avoid electrical shocks.
- Child Safety: Close supervision is required when the appliance is used near children.
- Unplugging Rules: Unplug the appliance when not in use and before cleaning. Always allow it to cool before adding or removing parts.
- Appliance Health Check: Do not operate any appliance with a damaged cord or plug. If it malfunctions or has been damaged in any manner, return the appliance to the Presto Factory Service Department for examination, repair, or adjustment.
- Preventing Steam Burns: Keep your hands and face away from the steam vent during use and exercise extreme caution when opening the cover during and after cooking.
- Accessory Use: The use of accessory attachments not recommended by the appliance manufacturer may lead to injuries.
- Indoor Use Only: The appliance is not designed for outdoor use.
- Cord Safety: Do not let the cord hang over the edge of the table or counter, or touch hot surfaces.
- Placement: Do not place the appliance on or near a hot gas or electric burner, or in a heated oven.
- Handling Hot Liquids: Use extreme caution when moving the appliance if it contains hot oil or other hot liquids.
- Proper Disconnecting: To disconnect, remove the plug from the wall outlet.
- Intended Use: Do not use the appliance for other than its intended use.
Parts and Features of Your Presto Rice Cooker
The first step in becoming an expert user of your Presto Rice Cooker is becoming familiar with its numerous components and capabilities. Here’s a comprehensive guide to familiarize yourself with its design and functions:
Presto Rice Cooker Components:
- Removable Rice Pot: This part holds the rice and water for cooking. It has measurement lines for precise water addition and a non-stick finish for easy cleaning and optimal cooking.
- Steaming Basket: An additional part for steaming vegetables or proteins while your rice cooks.
- Cover Release Button: A button that helps in opening the cooker’s cover with ease.
- Rice Paddle Holder: A convenient holder to place your rice paddle.
- Removable Steam Vent: A key safety feature that releases steam during the cooking process.
- Cover Handle: The handle on the cover helps in lifting the cover safely and conveniently.
- Hinged Cover: The top part of the rice cooker can be lifted to access the pot.
- Condensation Collector: This part collects condensation to keep the cooking environment clean.
- Rice Cooker Base: The main body of the rice cooker, which houses the heating plate and the digital controls.
Key Features:
- Indicator Lights: These lights signify the cooking and warming status of the rice cooker.
- Rice Measuring Scoop: A tool provided to measure the correct amount of rice. It is the industry standard of 180 ml or 6 ounces.
- Digital Controls: These include the COOK/STEAM button and the BROWN RICE button, making the operation of the rice cooker user-friendly.
- Rice Paddle: A tool provided to fluff and serve rice without damaging the non-stick finish of the pot.
How To Use Presto Rice Cooker
Before you start cooking with your Presto Rice Cooker, it’s essential to understand its functionality and features thoroughly. Follow these steps for a seamless cooking experience:
Step 1: Preparation
Position your rice cooker on a dry, level, heat-resistant surface. To avoid steam damage, ensure that it’s not located directly under cabinets. Always check to ensure the bottom of the removable pot and the heating plate are clean and free of debris.
Step 2: Loading the Rice
Press the cover release button and lift the hinged cover to a fully upright position. Remove the rice pot if it is in place. Using the provided rice measuring scoop, measure your desired amount of rice and pour it into the pot. Remember, one level scoop of uncooked rice will yield 2 scoops of cooked rice.
Step 3: Adding Water
Refer to the water measurement lines inside the pot and add the appropriate amount of water. For instance, if you’re cooking 4 scoops of rice, fill the water up to line 4. There are separate markings for white and brown rice. Never exceed the “MAX” fill levels as overfilling may result in water boiling over the top of the rice pot.
Step 4: Positioning the Pot
Ensure the exterior of the rice pot is dry and clean before placing it back into the cooker base. It should be centered and in direct contact with the heating plate. Never add water directly to the cooker base or cook without the pot in place.
Step 5: Initiating the Cooking Process
Close the cover securely and plug the rice cooker into a 120-volt wall outlet. Depending on the type of rice, press the COOK/STEAM button for white rice or the BROWN RICE button for brown rice. The corresponding red light will illuminate, indicating that the cooking process has begun. Steam will escape from the cover vent during this process, so be sure to keep your hands and face away from the vent.
Step 6: Completion and Serving
Once the cooking process is complete, the unit automatically switches to the WARM mode, and the green warm/CANCEL light will illuminate. Let the rice stand for approximately 10 minutes before opening the cover to ensure optimal texture and moisture levels. Open the cover, gently fluff the rice using the provided paddle, and serve. Always use caution when opening the cover to avoid steam burns.
Step 7: Post-Cooking Process
Do not leave rice in the pot on the WARM setting for more than 8 hours. Press the WARM/CANCEL button to turn off the rice cooker. Always unplug the rice cooker when the unit is not in use. The non-stick finish of the rice pot ensures stick-free cooking and easier cleaning, but remember to use the provided paddle to avoid damaging this special surface.
How To Cook White Rice In Presto Rice Cooker
- Using the provided measuring scoop, measure 1 cup (180 ml or 6 ounces) of white rice.
- (Optional): Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. This helps to prevent the rice from clumping.
- Add the rinsed rice into the removable pot of the Presto Rice Cooker.
- Fill the pot with water up to the “1” mark for white rice, using the water measurement lines inside the pot.
- Ensure that the exterior of the rice pot is dry and clean. Position it back into the cooker base so it’s centered and in direct contact with the heating plate.
- Close the cover securely and plug the rice cooker into a 120-volt wall outlet.
- Begin the cooking process by pressing the COOK/STEAM button. The red indicator light will illuminate.
- Once the rice is cooked, the rice cooker will automatically switch to the WARM mode, and the green WARM/CANCEL light will illuminate.
- Allow the rice to stand for approximately 10 minutes before opening the cover. This helps to achieve the perfect texture and moisture levels.
- Carefully open the cover, avoiding any hot steam that may escape. Use the provided paddle to gently fluff the cooked rice.
- Now, your perfectly cooked one cup of white rice is ready to be served.
Presto Rice Cooker White Rice Water Ratio
The table below outlines the recommended water-to-white rice ratio, according to the number of scoops of uncooked rice.
| Raw White Rice (in Cups) | Water Marking (in the pot) | Liquid Measurement |
|---|---|---|
| 2 cups (2 scoops) | 2 line | 19 ounces (560 ml) |
| 4 cups (4 scoops) | 4 line | 32 ounces (940 ml) |
| 6 cups (6 scoops) | 6 line | 45 ounces (1320 ml) |
| 8 cups (8 scoops) | 8 line | 57 ounces (1700 ml) |
Please note that the rice measuring scoop provided with your Presto Rice Cooker equals to 180 ml or 6 ounces, not the standard US cup measurement of 240 ml or 8 ounces.
White Rice Cooking Time Chart
In a Presto Rice Cooker, it typically takes approximately 18 to 20 minutes to cook 1 cup of raw white rice, which yields about 2 cups of cooked rice. This estimate assumes you’re using the provided rice scoop, which is equivalent to 6 ounces or approximately 3/4 of a standard US cup.
For more detailed information on cooking times and quantities, refer to the table below:
| Raw White Rice (in Cups) | Water Marking (in the pot) | Liquid Measurement | Approximate Cooking Time (in minutes) | Approximate Cooked Rice Yield (in cups) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 cups | 2 line | 19 ounces (560 ml) | 18 to 20 | 4 cups |
| 4 cups | 4 line | 32 ounces (940 ml) | 21 to 26 | 8 cups |
| 6 cups | 6 line | 45 ounces (1320 ml) | 24 to 29 | 12 cups |
| 8 cups | 8 line | 57 ounces (1700 ml) | 27 to 34 | 16 cups |
Please note that these cooking times may vary depending on your household voltage. Higher voltage will shorten the cooking time, while lower voltage will lengthen it. Additionally, the maximum capacity for the Presto Rice Cooker is 16 cups of cooked rice, so it’s recommended not to cook more than 8 cups of raw rice at a time.
How To Cook Brown Rice In Presto Rice Cooker
- Place the rice cooker on a dry, level, heat-resistant surface, well away from any overhead cabinets to prevent potential steam damage.
- Press the cover release button to open the rice cooker cover. Lift the hinged cover until it’s fully upright. If the rice pot is inside, remove it.
- Pour 2 cups of brown rice, measured with the rice measuring scoop provided, into the pot.
- Fill the pot with water up to the ‘2’ line marked for brown rice, equivalent to about 19 ounces or 560 ml of water, according to the water measurement lines inside the pot.
- Ensure the exterior of the rice pot is dry and clean before placing it into the cooker base, making sure that the bottom of the pot is in direct contact with the heating plate.
- Close the cooker’s cover securely, plug it into a 120-volt wall outlet, and press the “BROWN RICE” button. This will start the cooking process and the corresponding red light will illuminate.
- Allow the rice to cook for approximately 33 to 41 minutes. Once the rice is cooked, the unit will automatically switch to the “WARM” mode, and the green warm/CANCEL light will illuminate.
- Let the cooked rice stand for about 10 minutes inside the cooker. This rest period ensures that the rice achieves optimum texture and moisture levels.
- After the resting period, cautiously open the cover—beware of hot steam—gently fluff the rice with the provided paddle, and then serve.
- Remember not to leave the rice in the pot in the “WARM” setting for more than 8 hours and to unplug the rice cooker when it’s not in use.
Presto Rice Cooker Brown Rice Water Ratio
When cooking brown rice in your Presto Rice Cooker, it’s crucial to get the water ratio right for the perfect result. For instance, if you’re cooking 2 cups (2 scoops) of brown rice in your Presto Rice Cooker, you should fill up to the ‘2’ line marked inside the removable pot, which is equivalent to 19 ounces (560 ml) of water.
For other quantities, refer to the table below:
| Raw Brown Rice (Cups and Scoops) | Brown Rice Water Marking (inside removable pot) | Liquid Measurement |
|---|---|---|
| 2 cups (2 scoops) | 2 line | 19 ounces (560 ml) |
| 4 cups (4 scoops) | 4 line | 33 ounces (990 ml) |
| 6 cups (6 scoops) | 6 line | 49 ounces (1440 ml) |
| 8 cups (8 scoops) | 8 line | 64 ounces (1890 ml) |
Brown Rice Cooking Time Chart
If you’re preparing 2 cups (2 scoops) of brown rice in a Presto Rice Cooker, it generally takes between 33 to 41 minutes to cook, depending on your household voltage.
The table below provides a more detailed breakdown of cooking times for varying quantities of brown rice:
| Raw Brown Rice (Cups and Scoops) | Approximate Cooking Time (minutes) | Approximate Cooked Rice Yield (6-ounce cup) |
|---|---|---|
| 2 cups (2 scoops) | 33 to 41 | 4 cups |
| 4 cups (4 scoops) | 41 to 47 | 8 cups |
| 6 cups (6 scoops) | 45 to 53 | 12 cups |
| 8 cups (8 scoops) | 50 to 58 | 16 cups |
How To Steam Food In Presto Rice Cooker
The Presto Rice Cooker is more than just a device for cooking rice. It also has excellent capabilities for steaming a variety of foods, including vegetables to poultry, making it an essential tool in any kitchen. Here, we will guide you through the simple process of steaming food in your Presto Rice Cooker.
- Begin by pouring two rice measuring scoops of water into the rice pot, ensuring the exterior of the pot is dry and clean before you start.
- Prepare your desired food for steaming. For example, if you’re steaming broccoli florets, fill the steaming basket with the florets and position the filled basket onto the rim of the rice pot.
- Close the cooker cover securely and plug the rice cooker into a 120-volt wall outlet. Press the COOK/STEAM button to start the cooking process. The red light on the cooker will illuminate to indicate that the process has begun.
- Set a timer for approximately 10-12 minutes to steam the broccoli florets. Note that during this time, it’s normal for steam to escape from the steam vent in the cover. It’s essential to keep your hands and face away from the vent to avoid steam burns.
- Once the timer has finished, carefully open the cover to check if the broccoli florets are cooked. If they are done, end the cooking process by pressing the WARM/CANCEL button and unplugging the rice cooker.
- For your safety, use hot pads to lift the removable rice pot out of the rice cooker. Place it on a heat-resistant pad and then remove your perfectly steamed broccoli from the steaming basket.
How To Cook Rice and Steam Food Simultaneously
One of the fantastic features of the Presto Rice Cooker is its ability to cook rice and steam food simultaneously. This saves time and allows you to prepare a complete meal using a single appliance. Here are the steps to successfully cook rice and steamed food at the same time.
- Begin by adding the desired amount of rice and the recommended quantity of water to the rice pot. Remember, when cooking rice and steaming food at the same time, do not cook more than 5 scoops of uncooked rice.
- While your rice begins to cook, you can prepare your food for steaming. Make sure to select foods that have similar cooking times to the amount of rice being prepared. For instance, if you’re preparing a dish with chicken breast, which requires a steaming time of 20-25 minutes, it pairs well with a larger quantity of rice that has a similar cooking duration.
- Load your prepared food into the steaming basket. Carefully open the rice cooker cover, watch out for the escaping steam, and position the filled basket onto the rim of the rice pot. Then, close the cover securely.
- Set a timer for the suggested steaming time, ensuring that the rice and the food in the steaming basket will be done at the same time.
- After the timer is up, carefully open the cover and check for doneness. If the food in the steaming basket and the rice are fully cooked, use hot pads to carefully lift the steaming basket out of the pot.
- If the rice needs more time to cook, simply close the cover and allow it to continue cooking. When the rice is done, the unit will automatically switch to the WARM mode, and the green WARM/CANCEL light will illuminate.
- Finally, remember not to leave the cooked rice in the pot on the WARM setting for more than 8 hours. After use, press the WARM/CANCEL button to turn off the rice cooker and unplug it.
Presto Rice Cooker Steaming Chart
Steaming food is an excellent way to cook while preserving nutrients and flavors. Here are the suggested steaming times for various types of foods in the Presto Rice Cooker.
| Food | Suggested Steaming Time |
|---|---|
| Asparagus | 12 – 15 minutes |
| Broccoli florets | 10 – 12 minutes |
| Cabbage, cut into 1½ to 2-inch wedges | 12 – 16 minutes |
| Carrots, baby cut | 18 – 22 minutes |
| Cauliflower florets | 12 – 15 minutes |
| Green beans | 17 – 22 minutes |
| Spinach | 8 – 10 minutes |
| Squash (yellow, zucchini), ¼-inch slices | 9 – 11 minutes |
| Fish, 1-inch thick | 14 – 16 minutes |
| Shrimp | 10 – 12 minutes |
| Chicken, boneless chicken breasts | 20 – 25 minutes |
Please note that these times may vary due to factors like the maturity of the vegetables and the size of the pieces. Cook the vegetables for the minimum amount of time indicated if you prefer your vegetables crisp. If you prefer your vegetables soft, cook for the maximum amount of time indicated.
Useful Tips for Cooking with the Presto Rice Cooker
Using a Presto Rice Cooker can simplify your kitchen duties by providing an efficient and easy way to cook rice and steam vegetables. Here are some tips compiled from the manual to maximize your experience:
- Rinsing White Rice: Consider rinsing white rice in cold water before cooking to remove some starch and reduce stickiness. Note: This step isn’t beneficial for brown rice.
- Light Brown Crust: It’s normal to notice a light brown crust at the bottom of the rice pot. Soak white rice prior to cooking to minimize this crust.
- Adding Flavor: To flavor your rice, use a combination of water and broth, or broth alone. The quantity of broth should match the water amount in the recipe.
- Adjusting Rice Texture: If you prefer softer rice, add more water. For firmer rice, reduce the water amount. Always respect the ‘MAX’ fill level.
- Cooking Brown Rice: Keep in mind that brown rice requires more water and a longer cooking time compared to white rice.
- Making Rice Pilafs or Casseroles: Sauté vegetables and spices in a small amount of vegetable oil before adding them to the rice.
- Keeping the Cooker Closed: Try not to open the rice cooker during cooking to prevent loss of steam and heat.
- Using a Kitchen Timer: To keep track of cooking time, use a kitchen timer set to the maximum cooking time plus an additional 10 minutes for the warming period.
- Utilizing the Rice Paddle: Use the rice paddle and its holder for convenient stirring, serving, and storing.
Cleaning and Maintaining Your Presto Rice Cooker
Proper care and maintenance are crucial to extend the lifespan of your Presto Rice Cooker and ensure its efficient operation. Here are the steps to clean and maintain it:
- Unplugging the Device: Always disconnect the rice cooker from the electrical outlet and let it cool before starting the cleaning process.
- Cleaning the Rice Pot: Remove the rice pot, wash it with warm water and mild detergent, then dry thoroughly. The rice pot can also be cleaned in a dishwasher but may discolor due to dishwashing detergent. Avoid using steel wool or abrasive cleansers.
- Cleaning Other Accessories: The steaming basket, measuring scoop, and rice paddle can be cleaned either in a dishwasher or with hot, soapy water.
- Cleaning the Rice Cooker Base and Cover: Wipe the inside of the cover and both the interior and exterior of the rice cooker base with a soft, damp cloth, then dry thoroughly. Do not immerse the base in water or other liquids.
- Cleaning the Condensation Collector: Remove the condensation collector on the side of the base, empty any collected moisture, wash it, and reinsert it back into the rice cooker base.
- Cleaning the Steam Vent: After each use, remove the steam vent from the rice cooker cover. Disassemble the vent by turning the cap counterclockwise, wash the cap and chamber in hot soapy water, then reassemble and reinsert it into the rice cooker cover.
Remember to always ensure the rice pot is completely dry before placing it back into the rice cooker base.
Presto Rice Cooker Recipes
Now, let’s explore some delightful recipes to try on your Presto Rice Cooker:
1. Rice Cooker Teriyaki Shrimp And Rice
Feel the gentle whispers of the Pacific wafting through your kitchen with this delightful Teriyaki Shrimp and Rice. Harnessing the simplicity of your Presto Rice Cooker, this dish elegantly combines jasmine rice with sweet shrimp, providing a healthier alternative to takeout.
Mingle with the vibrant flavors of garlic and ginger as the tantalizing aroma fills your space, a testament to the exquisite fusion of ingredients. Complimented with a swift soy sauce glaze, this meal will lead you on a culinary journey to the heart of Tokyo. Serve hot and celebrate this joyous blend of flavors in the comfort of your own home.
2. Rice Cooker Chicken And Sausage Jambalaya
Here’s a vibrant journey to Louisiana’s heart, right in your kitchen – Chicken and Sausage Jambalaya. Thanks to your Presto Rice Cooker, this classic Cajun dish comes to life with delightful ease. Experience the triumphant merger of tender chicken and savory andouille sausage, dancing together in a whirlwind of creole seasoning.
Each spoonful of this heartwarming jambalaya feels like a cozy hug, and the added punch of fresh green onions and parsley creates a symphony of flavors that sings of Southern comfort food at its finest.
3. Taco Soup in the Rice Cooker
Embrace the vibrancy of Mexico with this enchanting Taco Soup, an innovative recipe for your Presto Rice Cooker. Let the harmonious blend of chicken, brown rice, black beans, and succulent vegetables transport you to a lively Mexican fiesta.
This soup, bursting with flavor, holds the comforting warmth of home-cooked food, yet presents an adventurous culinary expedition. Garnish with your favorite toppings for an added twist and relish this unique take on traditional taco, bringing an unforgettable gastronomic delight to your dinner table.
4. Rice Cooker Asian Chicken Rice
Presenting the Asian Chicken Rice, a rice cooker masterpiece that will enthrall you with its blend of exquisite flavors. Marvel at the symphony of succulent chicken thigh, fluffy rice, and authentic Asian seasoning, all woven together in your Presto Rice Cooker.
The complementary sauce, steeped in a medley of spices and a hint of miso, breathes life into this dish, creating a culinary experience that rivals any takeout. Garnished with fresh cilantro, sliced tomato, and a hint of lemon, it’s a delectable journey across the continent, waiting to grace your dinner table.
Please keep in mind that all of the material in this post is taken straight from the official user manual PDF of Presto Rice Cooker. Our aim is to provide this information in a manner that’s simple, easy to comprehend, and user-focused, without adding any extraneous content.
