Should I “wash” rice in an electric rice cooker? 7 manufacturers clearly answer the misunderstanding that many people have been doing for a long time.
Washing rice in an electric rice cooker is a controversial issue. Should you wash rice in an electric rice cooker or not?
Nowadays, electric rice cookers are an indispensable kitchen appliance. Many people wash rice directly in the pot for convenience. However, on the other hand. There are concerns that doing so may cause scratches and deterioration of the pot, as well as result in the quality of cooked rice not being as delicious as before.
On this issue, the Japanese television program Hodori Shinichi Morning Show interviewed seven leading Japanese rice cooker manufacturers: Zojirushi, Tiger, Hitachi, Mitsubishi Electric, SHARP, Panasonic,ยูฟ่าเบท and BALMUDA.
Manufacturers such as Zojirushi, Tiger, Hitachi, Mitsubishi Electric, SHARP and Panasonic all state that if you use a properly made, high-quality electric rice cooker, washing rice directly in the pot is fine. However, if you use a poor-quality rice cooker. Washing rice in the pot can easily cause the non-stick coating to wear off, which not only makes the pot look unsightly. But also causes rice to stick to the pot and may cause a metallic smell that is harmful to your health.
While BALMUDA commented that while washing rice in a pot is not a big problem. To extend its lifespan, it is best to wash the rice in a sieve or other container before putting it in the pot.
In conclusion, if you use a high-quality electric rice cooker, washing rice in the cooker is not a problem. However, if you want to preserve the life of the cooker. You should wash the rice in a colander or bowl before cooking.
Mistakes that many people often make when using electric rice cookers
Although rice cookers are easy to use kitchen appliances. Many people make mistakes that can shorten the life of the cooker, increase electricity usage, or even harm your health. Let’s take a look at some common mistakes.
Do not wipe the surface that comes into contact with the pot dry.
Many people have the habit of putting the pot into the machine immediately. After washing the rice and plugging it in. This is actually very dangerous because if there is water stuck on the outside of the pot, the heating plate will get wet, risking an electrical short circuit or electric leakage. Which may be dangerous for the user.
For safety, the outer surface and bottom of the pot should be completely dry before placing in the electric rice cooker.
Scoop rice from the pot with a metal utensil.
Don’t use laziness as an excuse to grab a spoon, fork, or other metal utensil on the table to eat rice from an electric rice cooker. Using metal utensils can damage the non-stick coating inside the pot.
Therefore, you should choose a wooden or plastic spoon or ladle with a rounded end to scoop rice, which is why every rice cooker usually comes with a special ladle.
Improper cleaning
Some people accidentally soak the inner pot in water immediately after use, even though it is still hot, for convenience. This method risks damaging the pot. Especially pots with non-stick coatings. Because the heat shock will cause the coating to peel off easily. You should wait for the pot to cool down before cleaning it. And you should avoid using a strong sponge to scrub. Because it may cause scratches and reduce the lifespan of the pot.
Reheating cold rice
Many people often put cold rice from the refrigerator into the rice cooker. Add a little water, and press the cook button to reheat. Experts do not recommend this because reheating cold rice with water can cause some reactions that are harmful to the digestive system. Reheating rice in the microwave or using cold rice to make fried rice is a safer and tastier option.