Rice Cooker Deep Fryer: Is It Possible?

The rice cooker is a versatile appliance that can be used for more than just cooking rice. Some models come with a steamer basket, allowing you to steam vegetables or proteins while simultaneously cooking rice. Certain rice cookers also have additional functions, such as a cake setting or a sauté function, enabling you to prepare a variety of dishes. While some people have expressed interest in a rice cooker that can also deep fry, such a combination appliance has not been commonly found on the market. However, there are a few exceptions, such as the Deni Multi Fryer, which combines the functions of a cooker, fryer, deep fryer, slow cooker, rice cooker, and steamer.

Rice cookers with deep fryer functions exist

Rice cookers with deep fryer functions do exist. For example, the Deni Multi Fryer is a combo cooker/fryer/deep fryer/slow cooker/rice cooker/steamer all in one. Tefal also offers a 4-in-1 electric cooker that can cook rice, porridge, slow cook, and steam, but it does not have a deep frying function.

Some rice cookers can also be used for steaming vegetables and chicken for a meal all at once. For example, the National rice cooker has a perforated platform that can be placed about an inch above the bottom of the pot, which is perfect for steaming salmon fillets. There are also rice cookers with air fryer lids, which can be used to apply direct heat to sear things.

Rice cookers with deep fryer functions can also be used to fry chicken and french fries at home. These cookers come with a non-stick frying basket and oil filter for easy and delicious cooking. They are designed with stable quality and diverse styles and types, making them a one-stop shop for kitchen appliances.

In addition to the above, there are also multi-cookers that can be used for deep frying, steaming, and blanching. For example, the Kitchen Kettle by Presto can deep fry up to six servings of French fries, make soups and casseroles, steam vegetables and rice, cook pasta, and roast beef, pork, and poultry.

Deep fryers that can also cook rice

While it is possible to find cookers that can cook rice, steam, and deep fry, they are not very common. One option is the Deni Multi Fryer, which is a combo cooker/fryer/deep fryer/slow cooker/rice cooker/steamer all in one. However, it appears that this product is no longer on the market.

Another option is to use a heavy-bottomed, large stainless steel pan with a lid, a steamer insert, and a rice ball. This combination can be used to steam, deep fry, and cook rice, all in one pan, without the need for multiple appliances.

If you are looking for a more minimalist option, a rice cooker with a steamer insert can be used to cook rice and steam vegetables and chicken. Some rice cookers also have a "saute" function, which allows you to cook chicken and other ingredients directly in the pot.

For a more versatile option, an Instant Pot or Zojirushi can be used as a rice cooker, steamer, and air fryer all in one. These appliances can also sear and apply direct heat to food, making them a good choice for those who want to minimize the number of gadgets in their kitchen.

Rice cookers with steamer and slow cooker functions

Rice cookers are an essential appliance for any kitchen, and many models now come with additional functions, such as a steamer or slow cooker, to maximise efficiency.

Slow Cook Function

Rice cookers with a slow cook function can replace traditional slow cookers. The benefit of using a rice cooker is that it is a sealed unit and very heat efficient. Food cooks faster at a low temperature, and flavours and juices are retained or reabsorbed. The slow cook setting can be used for cooking full joints of meat, soups, casseroles, stews, lentils, and beans. For most slow cook recipes, you can simply add all the ingredients at the start and let the slow cooking do the work.

Steamer Function

Many rice cookers can also be used as steamers, which is perfect for cooking vegetables, meat, tofu, fish, shrimp, and eggs. Some models come with a steamer basket designed to hold your food above the water. Larger models may have multiple baskets that can be layered in tiers, allowing you to cook multiple foods at once.

Rice Cooker Capacity

Rice cookers come in a variety of sizes, from 3-cup to 20-cup capacity. A 3-cup rice cooker is good for one or two people, a 5- or 6-cup rice cooker is suitable for four people, and larger sizes are ideal for families or those who eat a lot of rice or frequently host dinner parties.

Air fryers that can cook rice

Air fryers are small, tabletop convection ovens that can cook rice. However, the texture of rice cooked in an air fryer is slightly more crisp or "al dente" than rice cooked in a pot or rice cooker. Long-grain white rice varieties, such as Basmati or Jasmine, are the most suitable for air frying due to their lower starch content, which prevents the rice from becoming gummy and sticking together. To cook long-grain white rice in an air fryer, first, rinse the rice to remove excess starch, then combine water, oil or butter, and salt in a large measuring cup and heat it in the microwave. Transfer the rinsed rice to a cake pan, pour the water over it, and swirl the pan. Cover the pan with aluminum foil and place it in the air fryer basket. Cook the rice for 25 minutes at 350 degrees Fahrenheit, checking to ensure the water has been absorbed and adding additional time if necessary.

Some instant pots, which are similar to rice cookers, also have air fryer settings, allowing you to cook rice and air fry with a single appliance. Additionally, some rice cookers have a sauté setting, allowing you to apply direct heat to sear foods, and some even have air fryer lids, making them even more versatile.

While air fryers can cook rice, they may not be the best option for those seeking a dedicated rice cooker. Rice cookers are more convenient for this purpose and are available in dedicated electric or microwave-safe versions.

Rice cookers with sauté settings

Rice cookers with a sauté setting can be used for a variety of cooking tasks beyond just making rice. They can be used to sauté vegetables, brown meats, and even make soups, stews, and porridge. With the sauté function, you can caramelize onions and garlic, toast spices, and develop deep, savory flavors for your dishes. This not only enhances the taste but also improves efficiency by reducing the number of pans needed.

Some rice cookers with a sauté setting also offer additional features such as steaming, slow cooking, and pressure cooking. For example, the Tefal 4-in-1 electric cooker has a rice cooking function with a vegetable steaming insert, a separate button for porridge, and a slow cooking option. The Instant Pot Pro is another modern rice cooker that can pressure cook, steam, and sauté, allowing you to explore a diverse array of recipes.

When choosing a rice cooker with a sauté setting, it's important to understand the different settings and buttons available. The Cook/Warm button, for instance, is essential for all rice cooker modes as it controls the cooking temperature and switches to Warm mode once the rice is done, keeping it ready to eat. Fuzzy Logic is another feature that adjusts cooking time and temperature based on the type of rice and moisture level, ensuring perfect texture and flavor.

While a rice cooker with a sauté setting can be a versatile appliance, it may not be suitable for everyone. Some people may not have a need or desire to use it for tasks beyond cooking rice. Additionally, those who enjoy the collaborative process of cooking may prefer more traditional methods. However, for those who value convenience, a rice cooker with a sauté setting can be a valuable addition to the kitchen, simplifying meal prep and expanding culinary horizons.

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