Zojirushi NS-ZCC10 5-1/2-Cup Neuro Fuzzy Rice Cooker and Warmer, Premium White

Product Description

Zojirushi's NS-ZCC10 Neuro Fuzzy Rice Cooker and Warmer has advanced Neuro Fuzzy logic technology and a spherical pan and heating system. This rice cooker prepares perfect rice every time.

Product Details

* Amazon Sales Rank: #341 in Kitchen & Housewares
* Color: White
* Brand: Zojirushi
* Model: NS-ZCC10
* Released on: 2005-04-15
* Dimensions: 10.00" h x 8.00" w x 14.00" l, 8.20 pounds

Features

* 5-1/2-cup computerized rice cooker and warmer with advanced Neuro Fuzzy logic technology
* Multi-menu selections; automatic keep-warm, extended keep-warm, and reheat cycles
* Spherical, nonstick inner pan allows for spherical heating; LCD clock and timer; retractable cord
* 2 measuring cups, nonstick rice spoon/scooper, rice spoon holder, and recipes included
* Measures approximately 14 by 8 by 9 inches; 1-year limited warranty

Amazon.com Product Description
Producing restaurant-quality rice at home is practically foolproof with this 680-watt computerized rice cooker and warmer. Simply fill the inner pot with up to 5-1/2 cups of uncooked rice, select the food type, press the cook key, and listen for the completion signal. The unit's black, thick, spherical inner pan, which allows for spherical heating, provides a Dupont Teflon nonstick coating that prevents rice from sticking, while stay-cool side handles make the inner cooking pan simple to remove for quick cleanup. Multi-menu selections using advanced Neuro Fuzzy logic technology control the temperature for efficient cooking of many different types of rice including white, sushi, mixed, porridge, sweet, semi-brown, brown, rinse-free, and quick cooking.

Customer Reviews

Great machine but Understand the Capacity5
I finally convinced my wife to replace the old but still functional single switch rice cooker I'd owned for about 10 years. I have longed for something with an off switch so rice doesn't burn to the bottom when I forget to unplug it. This guy was the ticket.

It seems like a fairly complex machine but its really easy to use once you understand the setup. Its well designed. The pot is easy to clean and the inner lid snaps off for easy cleaning as well.

I have to say the rice it produces is some of the best I have had. I did a side by side cookoff with the old and the new rice cookers. The same rice just seemed to have more consistant texture and better strong flavor. Definatley worth the upgrade since we do lots of rice.

The one drawback I found is with the somewhat misleading specifications. They say this is a "5 cup" rice cooker. So I'm thinking 5 cups=40oz. Plenty big enough for a family of 4. Well its not quite that much. It seems in Asia (on the metric system) their idea of a cup is a teacup. If you look at the picture and see the two little cups next to the machine, it will hold 5 of THOSE cups. Those cups are approximatley 6oz each. So really it is a 4 (American) cup rice cooker, not 5. Of course 3/4 of a cup is about how much rice you'll eat in a meal so one run of this machine should be able to produce rice for 5. If you need more that that consider the NS-ZAC18 10 cup (8 cup) model.

The trick to the machine is to use the little cups that come with it. You measure out a few "cups" of rice and dump it into the pot. Then you add water and fill it up to the graduated mark on the inside of the pot. So if you toss in 2 cups you add water until you hit the 2 cup mark. It has different markings for Brown, White and Sushi rice.

Before discovering the proper way of using the smaller "cups" I used a regular 8oz cup on some Jasmine rice (then filled it to the designated level). It still came out way better than my rice cooker. It was firm but not hard and full of flavor. So if you screw up or loose your little "cup" you can still get great rice as long as the stickness is not absolutely critical to the receipe.

The manual makes a huge deal out of its ability to handle some "no rinse" rice who's milling technology was proudly developed in Japan. They devote pages to the setting and cooking it, but actually its pretty similar to the regular rice, you just use the green cup instead of the clear cup.

All in all this is a great little machine. If you want the best and are willing to pay the bucks this is the one to get. You will not feel your money is wasted.

Update:
Its now 6 years later and countless batches of rice and this little thing is still going strong. The pot has a few scratches from years of continous daily use but its holding up.

We expanded our use of this little gem. I've learned not to think of it as just a rice producing device but as a rice cooker + modified crock pot. My wife started using it to produce porriage and then later soup. She'll pour the ingredients in the night before, set the timer and her breakfast is ready 30 minutes before she wakes up. You can use it for grain soups, porriage, oatmeal and more. We buy packs of Thai flavored rice that say were supposed to cook on the stove. We dump the stuff in and hit go. They come out plenty tastey.

There is a quick cooking cycle that we use a lot. Shaves about 20 minutes off the cook time. Flavor suffers a little (though its still great) but when your in a rush...

Perhaps the most amazing thing however is what it does to brown rice. As a kid I was never fond of brown rice. Too hard and crunch and I was never that big on bran flavor. We got some brown rice and started cooking it in this thing and it was a whole new world. I don't know how it did it but it came out soft, a little chewey and decent tasting. Brown rice was now something worth eating vs avoiding.

So if for whatever reason you are looking to switch to brown rice but not thrilled with the flavor do yourself a favor and get one of these units. It makes it a whole new experience.

We haven't tried steaming anything yet. Maybe when our steamer breaks..

Simply Amazing!5
This rice cooker makes the best rice we have ever had - at least since our travels to Southeast Asia. And despite the fact that this machine *seems* smarter than it's user, it is remarkably simple to operate. The instruction book lacks a little bit in terms of recipes and creativity - but it does a good job giving you the basic idea of how to use this machine. This space age looking rice cooker is a little pricey, so it may be overkill for some - but I love all the features this offers and consider it well worth the price (which is a hundred less than what it is offered for here at Amazon). We eat a lot of brown rice, which is not something that other rice cookers handle well. This one has a setting for brown rice, and cooks it to perfection. Also has a setting for semi-brown rice, sushi rice, porridge & more. You get to pick how soft or hard you want the rice to turn out by using the control panel. Being able to set a timer for having rice ready when we get home from work is handy. This thing also cooks complete meals - definitely get a good cookbook for rice cooker cooking :-) We are expirimenting with many varieties of rice that I normally would have shyed away from, since I could not seem to cook even plain old brown rice properly until now.

It took me 6 months to decide to buy this thing. We were originally contemplating the MYC10 series, but the specific settings for brown rice became important to us. And this one takes up less space on the countertop than the MYC10. We will be eating rice nearly every day now thanks to this machine! I am definitely glad we chose the ZAC10, and would recommend this product. It's a keeper!

UPDATED JUNE 12, 2004: We have now had this rice cooker for nearly a year, and have used it at least 3 times a week. It has held up to regular use quite well, we have not had a single problem with it. If anything, we are eating at home more than ever because of the simplicity of planning meals ahead of time. One thing that we have learned is that the 5 cup capacity is for using the cooker for white rice. Brown rice capacity is about 3 cups. So if you anticipate using this for more than 3 6 oz. cups of dry brown rice, you might consider steppig up to the 10 cup capacity model ZAC18. One tip for making very tasty rice, use a broth instead of water (or 1/2 and 1/2). If you are on fence about this cooker go ahead and take the leap - it is fantastic! No regrets!

UPDATED April 18, 2008: Well, the "Brown Rice" setting finally died this week after nearly five (yes FIVE!) faithful years of weekly use. We remain very pleased with this product, and plan to upgrade to the newest model in a 10 cup capacity.

Miracle Exclussives ME81 Stainless Steel Rice Cooker / Steam

Product Description

Automatic Rice Cooker - All Stainless Steel! Features & SpecificationsStainless Steel Rice Cooker / Steamer - by Miracle ExclusivesOne of the modern marvels - no more watching and waiting for the rice to become perfectly cooked! The ME81 replaces the former model ME8 with new improvements like the all stainless steel bowl and vegetable steamer.All automatic, the unit includes a warm mode which automatically kicks in to keep the rice warm. This model will cook 8 cups of rice and yields 12 cups of cooked rice. With the addition of all stainless steel, none of your food ever comes in contact with any chemical or substance (like teflon on some others). Comes featured with indicator lights, different cooking modes and includes a stainless steel vegetable steamer tray.Features:All stainless steel contact with foodEasy to useYields 12 cups cooked riceAutomatic Warm FeatureNo Teflon or other chemicals used in coatingEasy-view Glass LidIncludes Rice paddle, removable stainless steel vegetable steamer tray46 inch power cordSpecifications: ModelME81 - Stainless Steel Rice CookerWeight3.97 PoundsDimensionsDepth9.5"Width:8.67"Height:7"ListedUL ApprovedVoltage110 V / AC / 60HzPower500 WMade inChinaWarranty1 Year Warranty

Product Details

* Amazon Sales Rank: #1483 in Kitchen & Housewares
* Brand: Miracle
* Dimensions: 11.75" h x .0" w x 11.75" l,

Features

* Stainless Steel (grade 304) cooking bowl
* Stainless Steel vegetable steamer tray - Measuring cup and rice paddle included
* Glass Lid allows you to view the rice while cooking
* No "Teflon ®" nor other non-stick surface materials
* Automatic Cook to Warm Mode

Customer Reviews

It is the stainless steel cooking surface that counts 4
We cook rice and grains frequently, as do many Asian-Americans. We have used plastic-bowl microwave vessels, aluminum & teflon pots, steam pressure cookers and several others over the past five plus decades. They all work, but each has a down side. For instance wait till your visitors or grand kids hear the hissing monster of a pressure cooker.

We feared aluminum toxicity, teflon ingestion, plastic leaching and plain uncertainty of what new epidemiologic research will unleash on us tomorrow. My wife and I have conveniently labeled our failing intellects as chronic "rice-in" toxicity. Forget age, it must be all that peeling cooking pot and rice!

The stainless steel Miracle is a reasonable answer, unless we find out in some distant future that stainless steel is also a hazard. Probably not. This cooker performs well and passes muster readily with us. We have not noted any spills or crusty rice paste sticking to the bottom. We do have the advantage of having cooked rice and grains for many years. But this is an easy skill to acquire if you learn to vary the amount of water used to suit the type of rice or grain. Don't lose heart too soon.

The pot washes easily if you soak it in water for a few hours -- and better still leave it overnight for your spouse to take care of tomorrow!

A vege tray comes with the cooker. It steams beans, peas and carrots well and to a ready-to-eat tender state.

I agree that a price of some $50.00 would have been better, but the convenience and safety are worth the added whimper while you pay the price. You could shop around and may be able to find a slightly lower price. And don't blow the savings on pricey coffee.

Exactly What I Wanted. Soak Then Wash4
Highly recommended. Cooks very well. I have not cooked brown rice yet. White rice comes out great. I add slightly more water than with previous rice cooker. I wish every appliance had a non-teflon option.

It isn't coated. In order to clean avoid leaving warming heat on when there's very little rice left, keep lid on for warming, and simply soak cooking pot in water for a few minutes and wipe away easily with a sponge.

I have no complaints5
I bought the rice cooker a year ago when I was looking for one that did not have non-stick coating or aluminum or plastic bowl. I'd been looking for a long time and was happy to find that this one had been changed/updated to include a stainless steel bowl.

We use it most for brown rice (which we eat at least once or twice a week) - comes out great! perfectly done and fluffy. Have also used it for oatmeal and other grains such as quinoa, as well as a bit for steaming vegetables. I found a ton of recipes online to make in this. Haven't tried all of them that I want to.

My company sells another, top of the line, expensive rice cooker. I don't use it because I don't want the "non-stick" bowl. I almost gave this one 4 stars then realized I have no complaints about this cooker, so gave it the full 5. Maybe I was hesitant because I just found out there is another rice cooker that has a crockery bowl. :-) I'd sure like to try it.

Lodge Logic Pre-Seasoned Combo Cooker

Product Description

It's a deep skillet, a fryer, a Dutch oven, and the lid converts to a shallow skillet or griddle. This versatile piece of cast iron cookware allows the preparation of almost any recipe. Great for kitchen and outdoor cooking. Includes a 3 qt deep skillet / Dutch oven base, and 10.25 inch shallow skillet / griddle / lid. Preseason and ready to use

Product Details

* Amazon Sales Rank: #754 in Kitchen & Housewares
* Color: Black
* Brand: Lodge
* Model: LCC3
* Released on: 2005-04-20
* Dimensions: .0" h x .0" w x .0" l, 14.00 pounds

Features

* Dual pan set with 3-quart Dutch oven complemented by 10-1/4-inch shallow skillet that doubles as lid
* Rugged cast-iron construction heats slowly and evenly
* Pre-seasoned with vegetable oil formula and ready for immediate use
* Long handles with holes for hanging, complemented by helper handles
* Lifetime limited warranty; hand wash with warm water only


Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com Product Description
Get two pieces of cookware in one package with this cast iron Combo Cooker from the Lodge Logic line. It features a 3-quart base that can act as a deep skillet or shallow Dutch oven and a shallow 10-1/4-inch skillet/griddle that also acts as a lid to the 3-quart base. Cast iron creates superior heat retention, heats evenly, and loves a campfire, unlike flimsier pans. The American-based company Lodge has been fine-tuning its construction of rugged, cast-iron cookware for more than a century. No other metal is as long-lasting and works as well for spreading and retaining heat evenly during cooking. Lodge's Logic line of cookware comes factory pre-seasoned with the company's vegetable oil formula, and is ready to use right out of the box.

While both come pre-seasoned to prevent food from sticking, they work best when sprayed or lightly coated with vegetable oil before use. After the meal is done, simply scrub the cast iron with a stiff brush and hot water, no soap, and dry immediately. Lodge covers the sturdy oven with a lifetime limited warranty against defects, and when cared for properly, this virtually indestructible pan should last for generations.

Customer Reviews

Great pan for basic kitchen5
if you are just outfitting your kitchen, start with this pan. Especially if you are cooking for 2 or 3. The 10" deep skillet is one of the least expensive, decent fry pans available. You can do a dutch apple pie with the lid on in the oven, you can cook eggs, pancakes, french toast on the lid. If you are cooking for 4, and want just one fry pan, get the 12". Otherwise this pan does it all. Roast, fry, oven and stove top. The pans are tough, mine is going on 20+ years.

Downside, takes a bit more oil or grease than a Teflon pan, but then if you own a parrot you already know you can't cook on Teflon. Makes you wonder how good it is for the rest of us.

Make this your first cast iron purchase5
Simply put, this is the best-designed piece of cookware you will ever use. Chicken fryer, dutch oven, skillet... use your imagination. The 'bottom' half is an excellent deep sauce pan in which you can make a decent sized batch of spaghetti sauce or chili, the 'top' half is a perfectly proportioned skillet. The sides are high enough and have a slight curve so that you can use it as a saute pan and low enough to serve as a griddle. I only have a small hot-plate in my apartment and I use this combo as a stove-top oven. Skillet-side down, it makes great baked chicken, deep side down it makes pot-roast. I couldn't be happier.

Cast Iron Cookware - Great Value5
My niece and daughter are great cooks and have a variety of cookware - All Clad, Calphalon, etc. However overtime - their cookware has not worn as well -- they both have children and do not have time to "baby" the pots and pans. I purchased a number of cast iron cookware pieces for them -- they are raving about this cookware. Heavy, great heat distribution, easy to clean and care for. So far the cast iron cookware is beating out the competition in value and function. We are purchasing sets for ourselves and also for our other children.

Zojirushi NHS-18 10-Cup Rice Cooker/Steamer & Warmer

Product Description

Plump moist grains of rice and brilliantly colored flavorful vegetables are yours with this steamer. Steaming not only preserves nutrients, flavors, and colors marvelously well, it also allows you to cook without adding oil or fat. Once your food is cooked it will stay warm until you're ready to serve, eliminating those timing headaches. And last but surely not least, the cooking pan is removable and non-stick, ensuring your precious time isn't spent cleaning up.

Product Details

* Amazon Sales Rank: #4150 in Kitchen & Housewares
* Brand: Zojirushi
* Model: NHS-18
* Number of items: 1
* Dimensions: 9.40" h x 12.80" w x 10.00" l, 6.80 pounds

Features

* Cooks rice and keeps it warm up to five hours
* Use also to steam seafood and vegetables and to cook custards and eggs
* Measuring cup and serving spatula included
* Uses 600 watts of power
* 9-1/4 inches high to lid knob; 13 inches in diameter, including handles


Amazon.com Review
Busy cooks cherish rice cookers. This is Zojirrushi's largest, suitable for cooking up to 10 cups of dry rice (white or brown) and keeping it warm up to five hours. A separate tray steams seafood and vegetables, cooks hard- or soft-boiled eggs, and even makes tender custards. Instructions and a cooking chart explain everything. A measuring cup and serving spatula are included. A glass lid permits monitoring of the cooking process. The cooker/steamer operates with admirable simplicity: just push a switch to start. The switch and a light turn off when cooking is completed, and the unit automatically goes into its keep-warm mode. Stay-cool handles on the cooker/steamer's sides permit it to be moved. Only plastic scrubbers and mild detergent should be used for cleaning. --Fred Brack


Customer Reviews

Very Important5
This is an excellent rice cooker but I would like to point out something very important. The directions say specifically that you must wash the rice in a strainer until the water that runs through them comes out clear. This is very important. If you are having problems with the rice bubbling up over the top of the rice cooker and getting on the counter, you probably aren't washing the rice or aren't washing it well enough. Also if you are having problems with a crust on the bottom of the rice, you probably aren't washing the rice or aren't washing it well enough. Start washing your rice and you probably won't see those two problems again. Also the rice comes out much fluffier and less gummy if you wash it.

The reason for this is that, when you get uncooked rice, there is a large amount of excess starch that is stuck to the outside of the rice that gets stuck there when the rice is processes.

Be sure to wash your rice...4
I love my rice cooker and use it several times a week! But you need to wash your rice thoroughly before cooking. This will help with the "spitting water" problem the cooker has.

I enjoy using the steamer for kale, broccoli, cauliflower, or carrots. The only trick is learning when to put the veggies in while the rice is cooking so that the veggies don't overcook.

My brown rice tends to clump and stick on the bottom, even when the rice is washed. That's one problem that keeps me from rating this as a 5 star machine. The other problem is that the instruction booklet is poorly done. Brown rice needs to soak for 30 minutes before starting to cook.

what? rice again?!!...............you bet!!5
i just wanted to add my two cents to help offset some of the negative reviews. i bought this particular cooker due to the positive reviews both here and on some other websites. i wanted a cooker due to being tired of cooking potatoes with most meals and getting tired of them. i received the unit very quickly and immediately tried it out. i wanted to try brown rice first, so i washed it briefly and put it in the machine to cook. shortly, a mass of bubbles filled below the lid and started 'sputtering' through the steam hole. not happy about the mess it was making, i endured it and ended up eating some fairly good rice with my first meal. i thought "yeah, they were right, it's messy, what a bummer". so, round two and three, i cooked some more, this time trying varieties of white rice and both resulting in a repeat of the first messy attempt, along with some 'browning' of the rices on the bottom of the pan. again i thought "this is no fun, friends or guests are going to think this is a piece of junk". by this time, i had been reading quite a bit on the 'net about rice, and concluded that a more thorough rinsing of the grains were in order, so my fourth round started off with such, along with an accurate measurement of rice and water, and....a pat of butter thrown in......i thought maybe it might help it from sticking or browning in the bottom. the result......perfect rice! i'm now making that my preparation regimen and i'm getting better results each time. i'm convinced that the errors others are reporting are not the machine's fault and i'm also convinced that, like most other machines, the user needs to figure out how to use it. in a short time a person should be able to make perfect rice repeatedly. to help the bottom-sticking, i'm also now opening the lid and giving a couple of stirs a couple of times through the cooking cycle. also note, like others have said that washing the rice is a must (maybe up to and including soaking, but i haven't tried that yet), as you are washing off a lot of the starch that helps make the mess in the first place. take note of the type of rice you buy. some rices have been stripped of their vitamins and have them 'sprayed back on', the bags will have instructions on them telling you to NOT wash the rice. i would avoid those types. i have yet to steam veggies or whole meals in it, but i'm sure i can get good results from it just as well.

good luck and good health!

Aroma ARC-960SB 10-Cup Cool Touch Digital Programmable Rice Cooker, Stainless

Product Description

This digital rice cooker from Aroma makes perfect rice, soups, stews and even steams meat and vegetables simultaneously. Its unique Sensor Logic heating system flawlessly prepares up to 20 cups of any type of rice, with a water reservoir that channels away excess condensation. With a programmable control panel, multiple functions that include automatic keep-warm and a 15-hour delay timer, it’s the perfect addition to any busy kitchen. Includes measuring cup, steam tray and serving spatula.

Product Details

* Amazon Sales Rank: #15907 in Kitchen & Housewares
* Color: Stainless
* Brand: Aroma
* Model: ARC-960SB
* Dimensions: 10.80" h x 11.20" w x 10.80" l,

Features

* Prepares up to 20 cups of rice and keeps it warm and for up to 12 hours
* Steams vegetables and cooks rice simultaneously, makes soups and stews
* Easy-to-use digital control panel with multiple features: White Rice, Brown Rice, Steam/Cook and 15-Hour Delay Timer
* SensorLogic technology self-adjusts for consistent, restaurant-quality results
* Water reservoir channels away excess condensation

Customer Reviews

Good overall4
At home we have a rice cooker on which we spent over $150. I am on an assignment away from home for a few months and wanted to find a rice cooker. I specifically wanted a rice cooker with delay function, so that when I get off work the rice is ready.

Pros: Cheap compared to rice cookers with similar functions. The cheapest rice cooker with delay function is over $80. This one is only $50. The rice cooker works pretty well as far as I can tell (I have been eating rice all my life).

Cons: The details are not as good as some of the more expensive brands. For example: the cord is not retractable; there is no rice paddle holder on the rice cooker so you will have to put it somewhere else; the paint of the plastic sticker showing 15 hours sticks to the rice cooker even after you remove the sticker (this must happen a lot - I don't know what their QC people are doing). None of these affects the functions of the rice cooker. But it just appears that the manufactorer does not pay much attention to the details.

Overall it is a good value. If you are looking for a rice cooker with delay function and are not willing to spend a lot of money on it, I recommend this rice cooker. If you are a person attentive to details and easily irritated by annoyance, you may want to spend more money buy a name brand.

Regarding the reviewer left rice warm for two days: no food should be left warm for two days -- the food will go bad no matter how good your rice cooker is. I typically keep extra cooked rice in the fridge and then microwave it before meals.

Great Product, does the job well - pretty fool proof (Is this last reviewer for real?)5
Aroma makes solid rice cookers, all the reviews are pretty good across the board -- this one is no different. It's very similar to some of the cheaper digital models but has more features. I'm not sure how the sensor logic (fuzzy logic) works, but the rice comes out perfectly, no timer, no worry about perfectly measuring. Brown rice was the real test and it came out phenomenal , not burnt or unevenly cooked - that's an accomplishment considering how long it has to cook -- I have never once been able to cook brown rice quite right in a pan.

**I'm not sure what planet the last reviewer is on --
Firstly, you cannot leave rice in it for 2 days (max 12 hours)
Secondly, how would someone get such a strong impression of a product
in just a few days (this model was only in stock literally days
before Christmas, I was looking weeks before that)
Rmoon's rant in questionable at best -- user error is obvious

Great rice cooker5
I bought this rice cooker for work related luncheons. When my husband and I used it at home, we decided to keep it. It does perfect rice and steamed veggies! I have always had a hard time making good brown rice. Now we have delicious brown rice once or twice a week. It is a great value for the quality, look, and functions. I recommend this cooker if you can't decide.

Presto 01755 Pressure Canner 16 Quart

Product Description

Pressure canning recommended safe metod by the U.S.D.A. This 16 quart canning will hold 7 quart jars or 10 pint jars. Canner has an easy to read pressur gauge and air vent/cover lock system. Includes cooking/canning rack and complete instruction and recipe book.

Product Details

* Amazon Sales Rank: #1403 in Kitchen & Housewares
* Brand: Presto
* Model: 1755
* Released on: 2008-03-29
* Dimensions: 11.94" h x 14.81" w x 14.81" l, 11.50 pounds

Features

* 16-quart pressure cooker/canner holds 10 pint jars or 7 quart jars
* Constructed of extra-strong, warp-resistant aluminum; suitable for use on regular and smooth-top ranges
* Air vent/cover lock allows pressure to build up only when the cover is closed properly
* Easy-to-read gauge automatically registers a complete range of processing pressures
* Includes cooking/canning rack and complete instruction and recipe book

Customer Reviews

Absolutely Great!5
I purchased this pressure canner after having one of the original canners from many years ago. This is so easy to use - lighter, easier to close, easy to read gauge. I love the jar support- it is so much better than the old wire basket. Each jar is firmly supported. No more wobbling. This canner is absolutely great!

Amazing Presto Canner5
Never had a canner before so took a while to decide on which one to buy. I really think this was a great choice. The canner works perfectly and such a joy to be able to can all my vegetables from the garden. I highly recommend this as a First Canner Purchase. It's not too big and not too small for a beginner.

review of Presto pressure canner5
This product was recommended to me by someone who also uses a Presto pressure canner. I have been very plesed with the product. It was delivered in a timely manner. Instructions are included with the product that are easy to follow. The instruction manual also includes directions for canning specific fruits and vegetables, information about canning utensils and proper canning supplies. This size canner will process a 7 quart volume at a time. For a novis canner like myself this product was a perfect choice.

Chef's Choice 810 Gourmet Egg Cooker

Product Description

Cooking eggs has never been easier and move convenient. New from Chefs Choice, the 810 Gourmet Egg Cooker can prepare up to 7 eggs, exactly the way you like them. Eggs within the same batch to can be combined to cook some eggs as soft, others medium or hard boiled. The water reservoir, electronic timer with audible ready signal combined with the egg poaching dish makes cooking eggs worry free . An elegant, brushed stainless steel design, the egg cooker has a convenient tray that can be lifted with one hand for rinsing under cold water or carrying to the table.

Product Details

* Amazon Sales Rank: #9082 in Kitchen & Housewares
* Brand: Chef's Choice
* Model: 810
* Released on: 2005-07-01
* Dimensions: 6.00" h x 9.00" w x 7.00" l, 2.80 pounds

Features

* Prepare up to 7 eggs, exactly the way you like them
* Eggs in the same batch can be combined to cook soft, medium or hard boiled
* Convenient egg tray can be lifted with one hand for rinsing under cold water
* Electronic timer with audible ready signal; on /off switch with indicator light
* Brushed stainless steel design, comes with egg poaching dish


Customer Reviews

Works great!4
I got this egg cooker about a week and a half ago and have used it several times with great success. The poached eggs were great and my husband loved the Eggs Benedict I made for him -- it was really easy and I even forgot to spray the insert with Pam first (and the eggs came out ok).

My son loves the soft-boiled eggs,as do I. They are so easy to make, we have had them a lot. Because they're so hot when they're done, I flip the lid over, put it in the sink with cold/ice water, and with an oven mitt or tongs, put the eggs in the lid. The water drains slowly through the steamhole when the lid is flipped, and this cools the eggs down enough to handle but they're still nice & warm inside.

I tried making hard-boiled eggs last night, and just put them in the refrigerator when they were done so I could make egg salad this morning. While my husband hasn't had it yet, everything looked fine although the yolks were slightly greenish on the outside, which is why I'm giving this 4 stars instead of 5. I have a method of cooking eggs without the green, but it is rather involved and it's so much easier just to throw the eggs in the machine.

Overall, I'm thrilled with this product & am buying one for my folks. I think our neighbor is getting one now, too - it's a great little machine!

There is a difference between boiled and steamed 5
I never thought I would be praising the virtues of an egg cooker until I had an egg that had been steamed. Wow, what a difference. Even cooked to the hard state, both the white and yolk are melt in your mouth soft and tender. A completely different texture than you get with boiling. The steamed eggs are also easy to peel and this cooker doesn't require piercing the shell, like others do. Once you've steam eggs, you won't ever want to go back to boiling them.

I loved until it stopped working 6 months later3
I loved this product. Made it fast and simple to boil eggs. I know it is simple on the stove, but I sometimes forget to put the timer on and they get over done. The eggs came out perfectly with this egg cooker. We used it a few times a week and we follow the directions. To my suprise, it just stopped working. It worked fine yesterday and today it wouldn't even come on. It will be 6 months of having it on 8/7/2008, so I'm not pleased that it just stopped working. I have the number of the manufacturer and hopefully they will honor the one year warranty.

Zojirushi NS-XAC05XR Rizo Micom 3-Cup Rice Cooker and Warmer, Stainless

Product Description

The Zojirushi RIZO electric rice cooker is user-friendly, allowing even beginners to cook rice easily with just the touch of a button. RIZO is equipped with switches for different cooking recipes, including sushi, risotto as well as cooking steamed dishes for the health-conscious. The body comes in three different designs: a stainless metallic finish (which is this one), and shades of white and yellow; reflecting the image of rice and saffron rice respectively. Rizo has a micro computerized Fuzzy logic technology. It has direct button menu selections: Rice/Sushi, Risotto, Steam Cook (Keep Warm, Reset). This unit includes a new steaming plate for healthy cooking. It has a spherical inner cooking pan and heating system which creates a convection for better cooking. The inner cooking pan is nonstick.A new style rice cooker, perfect for health-conscious rice cooking as well as steamed dishes; RIZO is set to make its global launch. About the Designer - Mr. Toshiyuki Kita: Mr. Toshiyuki Kita is an active, internationally respected environment, interior and product designer. His designs are permanent colletins at the Musium of Modern Art in New York, Centre Georges Pompidou in Paris, Museum of Modern Art in Saint-Etienne, France, and has held exhibitions across the world. He has also received many awards including the Product Design Award from the Institute of Business Designers and Conract Magazine in the U.S. and the gold prize of the Good Design Award. His recent design includes Sharp's AQUOS television.

Product Details

* Amazon Sales Rank: #48897 in Kitchen & Housewares
* Color: Stainless Steel
* Brand: Zojirushi
* Model: NS-XAC05XR
* Released on: 2007-02-05
* Dimensions: 9.00" h x 9.00" w x 10.00" l, 6.05 pounds

Features

* User-friendly 3-cup electric rice cooker yields up to 6 cups of rice
* Menu settings include white/sushi rice, risotto, and steam cooking
* Micro-computerized Fuzzy logic technology; nonstick inner cooking pan
* Steaming plate, measuring cup, rice spatula, and spatula stand included
* Measures 9-1/2 by 8-7/8 by 8-5/8; 1-year limited warranty

Customer Reviews

risotto made easy5
This thing is amazing when it comes to making risotto. I've only had it a short time but have made about a half-dozen batches of risotto and all have been successful beyond expectations except for one batch with peas in it which was a little underdone. The best so far has been risotto con gorgonzolla, but the batches of risotto milanese I have made have also been excellent.

However, I'm still working out cooking regular rice in it. The batches I have made so far have been a little sticky but they are getting better (I reduced the water I used). But since I bought it primarily to make risotto I can't complain too much.

Perfect function and apperance5
I had been looking for a rice cooker since mine was broken. Since I saw Zojirushi Rizo Micom I decided to purchase it right away. Zojirushi is the one of the best companies for rice cookers. Besides, they made a stylish rice cooker this time. This rice cooker makes perfect fluffy rice without scorched part at the bottom of the pot. It is very easy to clean up. The only thing I wish is to shorten time to cook rice. It takes 50-60 minutes, but has function to set up time to start cooking.
Anyway I am very happy with this product.

Buy it for its looks, but the rice is good too5
When I lived in Japan, I had an old Zojirushi rice cooker. I've wanted a new one for a long time and finally purchased the Zojirushi NS-XAC05XR Rizo Micom 3-Cup Rice Cooker and Warmer, Stainless. I first saw the yellow model in a magazine article and thought it was very cute. I followed the advice of one of the reviewers and purchased the rice cooker via warehousedeals.com. It was more affordable. They happened to have the stainless model, so I purchased it. In many of the photos it does not look shiny, but it is shiny like a mirror.

This is, as you know, a small rice cooker. I usually make 1 or 1.5 cups for two adults and have leftovers. Since I had used a rice cooker before, I found this model easy to use. I have tried both cheap white rice and CalRose and both taste good. This model does not have a brown rice setting, but I have been making a mix of half or two thirds brown mix and I think it comes out good. I have not tried the steamer or made mixed rice and I don't plan on ever making Risotto.

I think this is a great looking rice cooker, which I will leave out on my counter when it is being used at least every couple of days. I think it makes good rice and it is so convenient to be able to set the rice and do something else while it cooks. I time the cooking of the rest of the meal to be done when the rice will be done.

Fagor Duo Stainless-Steel 6-Quart Pressure Cooker

Product Description

Includes users manual recipe book and stainless steel steamer basket.

Product Details

* Amazon Sales Rank: #43599 in Kitchen & Housewares
* Color: stainless steel
* Brand: Fagor
* Model: 918060251
* Number of items: 1
* Dimensions: 9.00" h x 9.50" w x 17.50" l, 8.00 pounds

Features

* 6-quart pressure cooker retains vitamins and minerals during cooking
* Reduces cooking time by up to 70 percent
* 18/10 stainless steel with aluminum sandwich base for even heating
* Advanced safety features prevent excessive pressure build-up
* Includes steamer basket, trivet, instruction manual, recipe book

Customer Reviews

Nice Design5
I had a Kuhn Rikon and still have a Presto pressure cooker. I got rid of the Kuhn Rikon. I love the Fagor Duo. The Kuhn Rikon design is a real pain if you have an electric stove. It is probably almost acceptable if you have a gas stove. The Fagor models work equally well on either type stove. Also, along the same lines, the Fagor and the Presto designs are much more forgiving. You better plan on watching a Kuhn Rikon very closely -- especially on an electric stove -- but also on a gas range. It can get to an over pressure situation easily. Granted you will likely just blow out part of your gasket (the safety measure) if you get distracted. Who needs that? You better have an eagle eye and fast reactions to maintain a reasonably constant pressure inside your cooker with an electric stove.

You do lose some steam with a Fagor though typically much less than with a Presto model. (You lose nearly no vapor with a Kuhn Rikon -- that is about their only big selling point in my book.) The Fagor model uses a compressed spring to regulate pressure. The Presto uses a weight on top of a vent pipe -- this combination is called a jiggler valve -- to regulate pressure. To regulate pressure with a Kuhn Rikon you basically watch a rising spring loaded pressure indicator and adjust the heat as needed. Gas heat is more quickly adjustable than electric. You have to either hope for the best as you crank the heat up and down with an electric stove or play hop scotch between a too hot and a too cold burner. On the Fagor Duo there are two spring compression settings. You can cook at 8 psig or 15 psig. 15 psig is the normal setting used for most pressure cooking. For delicate foods, like fish, or if you are in no particular rush the 8 psig setting will come in handy.

Bottom line is I like the Fagor the best of the three pressure cookers I discussed, next I like the Presto. The Kuhn Rikon is built like a tank and it is an interesting design. I just don't like it as well as the Fagor's and I am a both a mechanical engineer and I cook for a hobby. I'd like to think my opinion is an informed one.

Love it!5
Bought this pressure cooker as a replacement for a defunct electric model(Salton-QVC). The electric was great for learning about pressure cooking, but the electronics simply gave out after a year of use. Decided to go with a stove top model, and chose the Fagor. What a great pressure cooker! It is simple to use, elegant compared to the cumbersome electric model and cooks like a dream. It's very easy and quick to get this pot up to pressure and keep it there. I've done a ham in it, potatoes, corn on the cob, chicken broth, beef stroganoff, plus a few other things. Cooked them all to perfection! You'll never have to use nasty canned chicken broth again if you buy this pot, reason enough to get one. I used three pounds of necks and backs, got 15 cups of rich, golden broth in 20 minutes. Go ahead and give pressure cooking a try. You'll be hooked with this pot! It's safe, easy, quick and good. I also like the fact that I can use with this cooker(unlike the electric...gotta have an outlet!) on a variety of cooking surfaces: stove-top, grill burner, woodstove(should the power go out in the winter!).

not big enough for corn on the cob4
The pressure works great in getting up to pressure quickly and love the safety features built in, but the overall diameter is not big enough for cooking corn on the cob.

Presto 05100 Microwave Bacon Cooker

Product Description

Cooks lighter, leaner and healthier than pan fired - cooking racks allow fat to drip into exclusive deep base. Big capacity. Easy to load - just drape slices over removable rack and place in base. Wrap around handle makes base easy to grasp, even on a turntable. Slotted top allows cooked bacon to be lifted away with a knife. Dishwasher safe. No tiny grooves to clean. Remove cooking racks and stack in base for compact storage.

Product Details

* Amazon Sales Rank: #1000 in Kitchen & Housewares
* Brand: Presto
* Model: 5100
* Released on: 2007-05-14
* Dimensions: 2.40" h x 10.00" w x 10.50" l, 1.50 pounds

Features

* Microwave bacon cooker cooks up to 10 strips of bacon at a time
* Load by draping strips of bacon over tent-shaped plastic racks
* Choose between crisp or soft consistency; tray collects fat drippings
* Cool-touch wrap-around handle; dishwasher-safe parts
* Measures 10-1/2 by 10 by 2-2/5 inches; 2-year limited warranty

Amazon.com Review
Bacon is excellent with Sunday brunch fixings or on a turkey club sandwich, but many don’t cook it often at home because of the high fat content and the mess. The PowerCrisp just may change all that by providing a leaner and cleaner way to make bacon. This microwave bacon cooker cooks bacon either to a crisp or a soft consistency, depending on how much cooking time it’s given it in the microwave. It has a pair of tent-shaped plastic racks that are easy to load by simply draping strips of bacon over them. The racks rest within a 2-inch-deep tray, which collects all the fat drippings as bacon cooks so the meat is not sitting in its own grease as with stovetop frying. And, as opposed to pan-frying, there is no splatter involved when cooking bacon in the microwave. Simply place a paper towel over the racks and it captures any grease and keeps microwave walls clean. The wraparound handle makes it easy to remove the PowerCrisp from a microwave turntable and dispose of hot drippings without burning hands. Slotted tops on the two plastic racks allow you to slide a knife through the racks to remove cooked bacon. The PowerCrisp cooks up to 10 strips of bacon at a time and both racks and the bottom tray are completely dishwasher safe for easy cleaning. Presto covers this microwave bacon cooker under a two-year limited warranty. --Cristina Vaamonde

Customer Reviews

One of the best gifts I ever received5
As I rapidly roar toward middle-age, I have not been paying as much attention to my diet as I should. Then on my forty-something birthday, my friend gave me this Presto 05100 PowerCrisp Microwave Bacon Cooker. It was one of the best gifts I've ever received. Besides removing unhealthy grease and fat from my bacon, it actually is neater and more convenient than using a frying pan. But health, convenience and neatness be darned! The bacon tastes great! This is a great product.

terrific product5
I've used the Presto Microwave Bacon Cooker for several years and I never make bacon any other way anymore. It is very fast and very easy to clean up. After long-time use, and we use it several times each week, the plastic racks for the bacon tend to curve a bit from the heat and the weight of the bacon so they need to be replaced because the bacon is now longer that the plastic rack and it is harder to keep it out of the grease dripping off. But the bacon cooker is so inexpensive that we just buy a new replacement unit.

A must have for bacon lovers5
This Presto bacon cooker is GREAT! I have tried several in the past and was never happy with any of them. I love this one. Cooks the bacon well and clean up is wonderful. This is what I'll be giving as Christmas and wedding gifts this year.

WMF Perfect Plus 6-1/2-Quart Pressure Cooker

Product Description

Holding 6-1/2 quarts, this attractive pressure cooker handles most recipes and offers many conveniences to simplify both use and cleanup. Made of heavy-gauge, 18/10 stainless steel, the main chamber offers strength and durability while a polished exterior shine gives it an eye-catching appearance. A Trans Therm base evenly distributes heat and brings excellent high-temperature retention. The black phenolic handle is ergonomically designed for comfort and resists heating; additionally, it easily detaches to simplify cleanup. In the event that excessive pressure begins to build up, an integrated safety feature audibly indicates the need to reduce heat. Pressure cooking lessens cooking time and preserves vitamins and minerals for healthier meals. Includes a perforated insert and trivet, and an accompanying collection of recipes.

Product Details

* Amazon Sales Rank: #27594 in Kitchen & Housewares
* Brand: WMF
* Model: 07.9313.9300
* Dimensions: 10.20" h x 10.20" w x 16.60" l, 8.75 pounds

Features

* Advanced safety features prevent excessive pressure build-up
* Handle design improves comfort and safety and detaches for easy cleaning
* More healthy cooking as vitamins and minerals are preserved; included recipes by Lorna Sass
* Reduces cooking times by up 70-percent
* Constructed in Germany of heavy-gauge Cromargan 18/10 stainless steel

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com Product Description
Holding 6-1/2 quarts, this attractive pressure cooker from Perfect Plus ably handles most recipes and offers many conveniences to simplify both use and cleanup. Made of heavy-gauge, 18/10 stainless steel, the main chamber offers strength and durability while a polished exterior shine gives it an eye-catching appearance. A Trans Therm base evenly distributes heat and brings excellent high-temperature retention. The black Phenolic handle is ergonomically designed for comfort and resists heating; additionally, it easily detaches to simplify cleanup. In the event that excessive pressure begins to build up, an integrated safety feature audibly indicates the need to reduce heat. Pressure cooking lessens cooking time and preserves vitamins and minerals for healthier meals. Purchase includes a perforated insert and trivet; additionally, an accompanying collection of recipes from Lorna Sass helps get the home chef started.

Customer Reviews

A great first pressure cooker5
I received a Perfect-Plus pressure cooker as a Christmas gift. I have used it several times a week since then, because it is so fun to use & experiment with. I have been interested in cooking with a pressure cooker for a while - but was intimidated by them.

I was given a 4.5 quart cooker, which was too small for some of the recipes in the recipe book that comes with the cooker. I exchanged it for a 6.5 quart cooker, and that has been a useful size.

The Perfect Plus is incredibly easy to use. It has a very clear pressure gauge that makes it easy to adjust to medium & high pressure. It does not make any noise. It is very easy to release the pressure gently, without letting out a blast of steam.

I have let the cooker get too hot a few times. It makes a clearly audible "hooting" noise, and you just remove it from the heat.

It is heavy and seems very well made. The handle clicks on, making it very easy to take apart and clean. I have not used any other pressure cookers, but it is hard for me to imagine that they are any easier to use. The Perfect-Plus is a great pressure cooker, and very simple to use.

No one does it better than this5
For a long time, I had a traditional alluminum pressure cooker that was given by my mother. It has the weight thing on top and when the pressure builds up, that thing is just bouncing up and down making all kinds of noise every few seconds. And alluminum is not good for cooking anyway. I looked at several choices including Kuhn Rikon and others that have stainless steel models. Then I chose this one over the Kuhn Rikon (the other final candidate) for the look, quality and easy to clean. It's much cleaner looking than others. The control is concealed and the lid is smooth all around. I was still surprised at how well it is made when I received it. The mirror finish does make it standout in our kitchen in a good way. It's easy to clean especially with that quick release handle. The helper handle is definitely a plus for less strong arms. We have cooked many meals with it and absolutely love it. Also, its rubber seal ring is much heavy duty then some other ones I looked, one less thing to worry I guess. It will take your cooking experience to another easy and joyable level.

Durable, Silent, and Safer Pressure Cooker. 5
Having used rocker-top pressure cookers all my life, I bought the WMF Perfect Plus for durability and safety. It's heavy. The stainless steel pot with lid weighs 7.5 pounds (3.4 kilos) empty. I would be surprised if it could warp under any circumstances, as the TransTherm base is 3/8 inch (1 cm) thick. It can be used on gas, electric, induction and glass-ceramic stovetops. The pot is 7 3/8 (18 3/4 cm) inches tall and 8 3/4 inch (22 1/4 cm) in diameter, not including the rim. I preferred these dimensions to the skinnier Kuhn-Rikon, which I also considered. The cooker has a 6.5 quart capacity, even though the box says 6.5 liters. The handle and loop handle on the opposite side are both coated with plastic and don't get hot.

When you're ready to cook, seal the cooker by lining up the handle and pushing the regulator on the handle to "locked" position. As pressure builds up, the black rubber valve on top of the lid seals off, and the circular cooking indicator on the handle rises to reveal a yellow, then 2 orange, rings. Adjust heat until 1 orange ring, for low pressure cooking, or 2 orange rings, for regular pressure, are visible. There are suggestions in the instruction book as to which pressure level to use. Generally, they recommend level 1 for most fruits, vegetables, and fish and level 2 for everything else. If pressure rises too high, a little steam escapes through the end of the handle (not the end you're holding).

The valve takes longer to seal than my old rocker-tops did. But once it seals, the cooker is eerily quiet. Not being alerted to the pressure by a noisy rocker takes some getting used to. I have to watch this pot to know when the pressure has built up sufficiently or too much. But the handle will not allow me to open the cooker with full pressure inside. You can, however, manually release the pressure by slowly pushing the regulator to the "open" position. I don't know how long the sealing ring lasts, as I haven't had to replace it yet. It looks more durable than my old rubber rings. The cooker comes with a basket-style steamer insert. The handle can be removed easily for cleaning. I've been very pleased with the WMF cooker, though I still haven't gotten used to the silence.

Zojirushi NS-WAC10 Micom Fuzzy-Logic 5-1/2-Cup Rice Cooker and Warmer

Product Description

Zojirushi's 5.5 Cup Micom Rice Cooker and Warmer has micro computerized Fuzzy Logic technology. Many features include easy-to-read LCD control panel with clock and timer. It has an interchangeable melody and beep signer and a delay timer with two settings. Automatic keep warm and extended keep warm settings, as well.

Product Details

* Amazon Sales Rank: #22328 in Kitchen & Housewares
* Size: 5.5-Cup
* Color: White
* Brand: Zojirushi
* Model: NS-WAC10
* Released on: 2008-03-28
* Dimensions: 8.50" h x 9.88" w x 13.19" l,

Features

* 5-1/2-cup rice cooker and warmer with Fuzzy Logic technology
* User-friendly LCD control panel; multi-menu cooking functions
* Automatic keep warm; clock and delay timer; dent-resistant plastic exterior
* Includes 2 measuring cups, a nonstick spatula, and a spatula holder
* Measures 13-3/16 by 9-7/8 by 8-1/2 inches


Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com Product Description
Equipped with micro-computerized Fuzzy Logic technology, this 5-1/2-cup rice cooker and warmer automatically makes fine adjustments to the temperature and heating time to ensure perfectly cooked rice every time. The unit comes with a black, thick, inner cooking pan that provides even heating, and its multi-menu cooking functions include white/mixed, sushi, porridge, sweet, brown, quick, and rinse-free. Once the rice has fully cooked, the appliance automatically switches to Keep Warm mode, which keeps the rice at the perfect serving temperature without overcooking. The unit also provides extended keep-warm settings, a user-friendly LCD control panel, a clock and delay timer, a detachable and washable inner lid, a dent-resistant plastic exterior, and a detachable power cord for easy storage. Accessories include a rice-measuring cup, a rinse-free rice-measuring cup, a nonstick spatula, and a spatula holder. Ideal for singles or smaller families, the 610-watt 5-1/2-cup rice cooker measures 13-3/16 by 9-7/8 by 8-1/2 inches.

Customer Reviews

Very Good Rice Cooker5
I bought this a couple months ago for use in my apartment and I'm very pleased with the purchase. It does a great job of cooking brown rice as well as white rice which is why I bought it. It keeps the rice warm for a very long time without drying it out too. The timer feature works great too, I just set it early in the day and my rice is always done at the exact minute I want.

I have absolutely no complaints with this purchase and would definitely buy it again if I had to.

Don't agonise-just buy it!5
When I'd mentioned I was 'thinking about' buying a rice cooker a friend recommended the Zojirushi cookers above others.

Yes, this rice cooker delivers on its claims. It's easy to use. I haven't tried too many fancy recipes and I seldom if ever use the timer functions. This handsome model is well-designed and a breeze to clean. The fuzzy logic settings for various rices and porridge make sure whichever type of rice (or oats) I put in the cooker come out perfectly cooked. The warming settings work perfectly.

Its capacity is right sized for a couple or a small family.

The Zoji makes me feel like I have a 'helper' in my kitchen.

Great Item For Auto Rice Maker5
This is the 2nd Zojirushi rice cooker I purchased...the electronics in the system is good (programmable operation time), the different features offered are awesome!...a must have if you are a person with limited time to cook...

Sanyo ECJ-N55W 5-1/2-Cup Electric Rice Cooker with Porridge/Soup Cooker and Steamer

Product Description

Enjoy a variety of healthy dishes with quick and easy preparation in this Sanyo multi-function appliance. The sealed jar style cooker holds in flavor and nutrients to make your meal as tasty as you expect. Prepare your favorite rice (up to 11 cups cooked rice), make soup or steam vegetables with one touch of the switch. The two menu switch controls the heating elements for cooking rice meals or making foods such as porridge, soup or risotto. A specially designed lid eliminates boiling over of porridge or soup. Steam your favorite veggies with the included steaming tray. Foods are prepared in the easy to clean non-stick inner pot. After initial cooking, the keep warm function automatically keeps your food warm and delicious for hours. The steam vent and dew collector are removable and easy to clean. Convenient carrying handle allows you to bring your food directly to the table to enjoy. Included in the carton are a measuring cup, spatula and multi-language instruction manual (English, Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese). White with metallic style wrap color.

Product Details

* Amazon Sales Rank: #1884 in Kitchen & Housewares
* Brand: Sanyo
* Model: ECJ-N55W
* Dimensions: 10.00" h x 9.00" w x 10.00" l, 6.50 pounds

Features

* 5-1/2-cup electric rice cooker with porridge/soup cooker and steamer
* Single-switch operation; nonstick inner pot; keep-warm function
* Specially designed lid prevents boiling over; steam vent and dew collector
* Measuring cup, spatula, spatula holder, and instructions included
* Measures 9-13/16 by 9-1/16 by 9-7/16 inches; 90-day parts-and-labor warranty


Customer Reviews

One-touch!5
We received this model as a gift from dear friends -- after having cooked rice for decades in a covered saucepan on the range. This is terrific! Just put in the rice, salt and water, press down on the start button, and wait for the cook light to go off. It takes about 20 minutes, just like on the range top, and produces perfect rice -- plus no more guessing, no more checking (and no more occasional overcooked rice as I must admit to when I used the old way in the past).

Oster 4722 5-Cup Rice Cooker with Steaming Tray, Red

Product Description

Oster's 4722 Rice Cooker and Steamer is the perfect way for couples or small families to make rice perfectly and easily. This rice cooker has a five-cup capacity that amounts to 10 cups of fully cooked rice. The 1-liter steaming tray cooks up healthy vegetables. The cooker can even be used to prepare soups and fondue. And don't worry about different household schedules: The glass lid and keep-warm functions ensure rice won't get cold. Nonstick pot and steaming tray are removable and dishwasher safe for easy cleaning. Includes Manufacturer's Warranty.

Product Details

* Amazon Sales Rank: #4948 in Kitchen & Housewares
* Size: 5-Cup
* Color: Red
* Brand: Oster
* Model: 004722-000-000
* Dimensions: 9.50" h x 10.25" w x 9.25" l, 4.00 pounds

Features

* Cooks a variety of food including rice, soup, fondou and more
* Prepares up to 10 cups of rice
* Includes 1-liter steaming tray
* Automatic keep warm feature
* Integrated one-touch operation

Customer Reviews

Good rice cooker - simple but a little fussy4
I've never owned a rice cooker before this, however, I have cooked lots of rice over the years. Its an inexpensive rice cooker and if you follow the directions, it'll do fine.

Since moving to the mountains of Colorado, its taken me years to adjust to the lowered the boiling point due to the higher elevation (8300')... it takes more time (add ~10-20min) and the dry climate means using more water (for a 1 cup of dry rice, takes ~2.5+ cups water rather than 2cups). Still, there have been many times when rice just didn't work out the way I wanted.

So I mentioned that it would be nice to have a rice cooker and let it deal with the cook time. Of course I had done some research, and when this came in the mail as a present, I was a little nervous since Oster's seem to get so-so reviews. Well, I cooked my typical basmati rice, a 1/2 cup dry and added my typical 1c water plus extra, put lid on, pressed the button and went to do something else.

A lot of reviewers mention how the rice on the bottom gets over-cooked, sometimes brown or burnt. Some reviewers like the crunchiness, some hate it. Well, the directions tell you to stir the rice - especially the bottom of the cooker after 15 minutes. Sure enough, the rice at the bottom was starting to stick. I scraped it all loose, added another 1/4 cup water, chopped it up a little, put the lid on, and let fate take its course. Would the rice by a burnt mess? 20 minutes later we had the best sticky rice we've ever had!

Plus it seemed to cook faster. And I really liked that it went to 'warm' mode automatically. One major drawback: It spewed hot sticky water up under the lid and through the vent all over the kitchen but once we wiped the lid off (without picking up the lid), it settled down. If you are a neat freak or want a set-and-forgot, this rice cooker is not for you. And for me, I'll come up with a little steam catcher helmet and deal with the mess. For the price, its a good buy. And, I love the red color too!

[found this cool tip from Spyce: To help keep the starch from bubbling up and spraying out of the vent hole, rinse the rice thoroughly and drain. Heat a small amount of olive oil in the rice bowl, once the oil is heated, carefully add the rice and saute it for 3 to 4 minutes. Add the water and continue cooking.] I'm going to try this tip next time!

BTW, this cooker seems like a knock-off of the similar Rival rice cooker (both owned by Jarden]

The perfect rice cooker for the non-attention-deficient5
Look, all rice cookers require a degree of set-it-and-forget-it-but-pay-attention. It's in the nature of the beast.

I put into the cooker a scoop (included measurer) of brown rice, 2.5 cups water, a veggie bouillon cube, and some olive oil; and in *ABOUT* an hour, sometimes less, sometimes more, check your local weather conditions, I have a VERY NICE bowl of WELL-COOKED rice. Okay, sometimes it needs to sit an extra hour, power off, to fluff properly. So COOK AHEAD OF TIME!

I can serve it directly or use it in a salmon skillet; different results require some attention to detail, but anyone who CANNOT use this device is an IDIOT.

In the two years I've owned this machine, I've cooked MINIMUM five hundred bowls of rice. It works.

I ADORE this machine.

Presto 02160 6-Quart Electric Stainless-Steel Pressure Cooker

Product Description

Presto 6-Quart Electric Pressure Cooker cooks 3 to 4 times faster than ordinary methods; fish, chicken, and vegetables cook to perfection in minutes. Control Master heat control automatically regulates the temperature to maintain the proper cooking pressure. Complete 64-page instructions/recipe book included which contains easy-to-follow instructions and flavorful recipes. Cover locking system prevents cooker from being opened until pressure is safely reduced. Completely immiscible and dishwasher safe with the heat control removed. Features stainless steel basket for steaming and cooking several foods at once with no intermingling of flavors.

Product Details

* Amazon Sales Rank: #31104 in Kitchen & Housewares
* Size: 6-Quart
* Color: Stainless
* Brand: Presto
* Model: 02160
* Dimensions: 10.50" h x 15.50" w x 9.50" l, 9.00 pounds

Features

* 6-quart electric pressure cooker in durable stainless steel
* Aluminum-clad base; cooks up to 3 or 4 times faster than conventional methods
* Includes stainless-steel basket for steaming and cooking simultaneously
* Safety cover-locking system; dishwasher-safe parts; user manual with recipes
* Measures 15-1/2 by 9-1/2 by 10-1/2 inches; 1-year limited warranty

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com Product Description
Easily prepare a healthy dinner for the family, even after a long day at the office, with this 6-quart electric pressure cooker. By combining steam, heat, and pressure, the unit can cook up to three or four times faster than conventional cooking methods, which means serving up delicious home-cooked meals like tender pot roast, hearty chili, vegetable stew, and more in no time. The durable stainless-steel appliance features an aluminum-clad base for fast, even heating, while its Control Master heat control automatically regulates the temperature to maintain the proper cooking pressure. Furthermore, the included stainless-steel basket allows for steaming and cooking different foods simultaneously with no intermingling of flavors. For safety, the unit's side handles stay cool to the touch and its cover-locking system prevents the lid from being opened while under pressure. With the heat control and sealing ring removed, the pressure cooker cleans up easily by hand or in the dishwasher. A 64-page manual comes included with easy-to-follow instructions and a variety of flavorful recipes. The 1300-watt pressure cooker measures 15-1/2 by 9-1/2 by 10-1/2 inches and carries a one-year limited warranty.

Cuisinart PSC-400 4 Quart Programmable Slow Cooker, Brushed Stainless Steel

Product Description

Programmable technology makes homemade meals easier than ever! This Cuisinart Slower Cooker features 24 hour programmable countdown timer, three cooking modes- and it automatically shifts to Warm when it's done cooking! Whether preparing one-pot entrees, sides, or desserts, operation is easy. Meals can be served in the ceramic pot they're cooked in, and cleanup is dishwasher-quick. Designed for today's busy lifestyles, all the work is done ahead of time. Dinnertime is as relaxing for the cook as it is for the diners. Enjoy!

Product Details

* Amazon Sales Rank: #1845 in Kitchen & Housewares
* Size: 4 qt
* Color: Brushed stainless steel
* Brand: Cuisinart
* Model: PSC-400
* Released on: 2007-09-01
* Dimensions: 16.65 pounds

Features

* Touchpad control panel with LCD timer display and 24 hour timer. Off/On, Keep Warm, Simmer, Low and High settings.
* Removable 4 quart round ceramic cooking pot that automatically shifts to "Warm" when cook time ends.
* Brushed stainless steel housing with chrome-plates handles with glass lid with stainless steel rim and chrome-plated knob. Non-slip rubber feet.
* Dishwasher safe lid and ceramic pot.
* Includes cooking rack for use with ramekins or other bakeware and spiral bound recipe book with 70 basic to gourmet dishes and instruction book


Customer Reviews

Beautiful and works well5
This is a perfect slow cooker. Perfect size when following slow cooker recipes for "medium round." Very stylish...matches my Cuisinart rice cooker. I like the fact that I can set the timer for whatever time I want. When the time is up, the cooker sets to "keep" mode. Very easy to clean and takes up little space compared to my larger slow cooker. The lid fits perfectly with no escape of liquid.

The Little Crock Pot that Could4
Great little slow cooker/crockpot.

The unit cooks well and evenly.

The sleek design is suitable for a permanent home on the counter (unlike my older crockpot with it's 1970's floral print, which is best hidden in the cupboard). The retractable cord is an added bonus that makes it easy to keep on the counter or store neatly on a shelf.

The digital display is great - I love being able to set the time and walk away. But, calling this a programmable unit is a bit misleading - it's equipped with a digital timer, that's where the programming ends. The only thing that kept this review from being 5 stars is the lack of a "delayed start" option, which I thought would be included on a "programmable unit". However, to be fair, that short-coming, if you can call it that, is compensated for by the "warming feature" that keeps food warm after the cooking cycle.

The 4 quart is great for a small household. However, since you technically should only cook about 3 quarts in a 4 quart unit, if you have a household of 4 or more or love to eat "left overs", I suggest you consider bumping up to the 6 quart unit. Otherwise, you may find that your regular recipes don't quite fit into the pot.

All in all, well worth the investment.

Kuhn Rikon Duromatic Top Pressure Cooker, 5-Quart

Product Description

The Kuhn Rikon Duromatic Top 5-Quart Pressure Cooker features an automated lid-locking system and safety release back-up system to give you ultimate peace of mind. The spring-loaded pressure release valve is a large knob marked with easily visible red lines so cooks can see at a glance whether the correct pressure has been reached. When it's time to release pressure, just turn the knob to indicators for slow or quick release of steam. There is no need to hold down the release valve by hand. You see the exact pressure and know exactly when to start and stop cooking. So, there is no danger of overcooking and no noisy steam escapes. It's blissfully quiet. Cook healthy delicious meals in minutes, not hours. Easy to use with its interior fill lines, automatic locking system, and precision spring-loaded pressure release valve. A stainless steel steaming trivet is included. Cooking with a Duromatic Pressure Cooker not only saves an incredible amount of time, it produces exquisitely delicious food. Vitamins are sealed in, instead of boiled away, vegetables keep their bright colors and flavors are so intense less seasoning is needed. While you are saving time you are also saving money and natural resources. Using a Duromatic Pressure Cooker also conserves energy. The Kuhn Rikon Duromatic Top 5-quart is a great, all-around pressure cooker. Included is Quick Cuisine Cookbook, a $14.00 value - free.

Product Details

* Amazon Sales Rank: #5887 in Kitchen & Housewares
* Color: Stainless
* Brand: Kuhn Rikon
* Model: 3916
* Released on: 2006-10-14
* Dimensions: 6.00" h x 9.00" w x 14.00" l, 9.05 pounds

Features

* Pressure cooker saves time, money, and 70 % of conventional cooking energy
* 18/10 stainless steel with solid aluminum core in base heats quickly
* New generation system is quiet and safe; cooks in 1/3 the time of conventional methods
* Spring-loaded precision valve; integrated lid locking; 5 safety releases
* Made in Switzerland; dishwasher-safe; 10-year warranty

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com Review
If cooking with a pressure cooker sounds old-fashioned, think again. Great strides have enhanced the Duromatic since its inception in 1949. Swiss company Kuhn Rikon has made the pressure cooker quieter, safer, and a smart option in today's world, given how quickly it cooks and how much energy it saves. Pressure cookers are rapidly gaining in popularity, and this one is an exceptional model crafted in Switzerland. You'll find such foods as rice, grains, stews, poultry, and vegetables cook in just one-third the time of conventional methods, and retain vital nutrients. Choose from a variety of sizes to meet any household's needs. By saving 70 percent of the gas or electricity normally used in conventional cooking, the pressure cooker can pay for itself in just months.

The Duromatic is constructed of 18/10 stainless steel that encapsulates a solid aluminum core in the base for quick, even heating. Put in your ingredients (recipes are included), and the integrated lid automatically locks and won't open under pressure. A new generation spring-loaded valve uses red lines to show you at a glance whether the right pressure has been reached, and when cooking is done, you simply turn the knob for quick or slow release. Unlike old models, the Duromatic cooks quietly, without hissing, and five safety releases let you rest assured the pressure won't get too great. Kuhn Rikon covers the dishwasher-safe Duromatic with a 10-year warranty on materials and workmanship, and guarantees parts will be available for 15 years. --Ann Bieri

Customer Reviews

Mercedes of Pressure Cookers5
There's a good reason why the New York times reviewed this product and tagged it "The Mercedes of Pressure Cookers". This efficient piece of cookware is precision engineered and made in a modern Swiss factory where the best cookers have been made since the safe Durotherm was first developed here. On a visit to the factory we saw a clean, efficient facility which employs re-settled Tibetan refugees and uses robotics to shape these precision pots. The Duromatic factory adheres to high standards of European green manufacturing methods while producing a product as precision made as a Swiss watch.
The proof is in the cooking. We love our Duromatics, and have several in our home. For one thing it is quiet compared to older versions of pressure cookers, and safer due to several safety-release valves. When we cook things like split pea soup and roasted chicken we get perfect results with much less energy, heat, and cooking time than any other method of cookery. Once you cook artichokes this way you will never go back to your old method.
This particular size is ideal for most households and produces a family size meal in minutes. At the end it is all dishwasher safe.

Our Favorite Cookware5
We have three Kuhn Rikon pressure cookers that we use almost every time we cook - this is the main cookware we use. It's fast, easy, and it save energy because it takes less time to cook. And the food's great - I like eating at home better than any restaurant.

Changed our culinary life!!5
WOW! have been using our Kuhn Rikon for about 5 years & can't imagine life without being able to make bean dishes anytime I want after work. Goodbye soaking, goodbye planning ahead. Hello spontaneous & speedy black-eyed peas, split pea soup & hummous from scratch.

Had been scared of pressure cookers. Lived in France in high school & remember ours exploding every couple of months - spewing soup everywhere. Heard they'd "modernized" the cookers & then researched the heck out of all the ones on the market. Took the leap w/ this one because of the redundant safety features. Was terrified to try it the first time, but have never ever ever had it explode - even when I've forgotten to turn it down after it got up to pressure (thanks to the automatic safety pressure-release).

And when you first taste how deeply spices penetrate curry dishes, soups and beans -- you'll be hooked. Not one ounce of regret for spending the extra $$ for this ultra-safe "BMW-quality" cooker.

All-American 30-Quart Pressure Cooker/Canner

Product Description

Heavy Cast Aluminum Pressure Cooker/Canner

Product Details

* Amazon Sales Rank: #3307 in Kitchen & Housewares
* Brand: All American
* Model: 930
* Released on: 2008-05-22
* Number of items: 1
* Dimensions: 20.00" h x 17.00" w x 17.00" l,

Features

* 30-quart pressure cooker/canner holds 19 pint jars or 14 quart jars
* Made of durable, hand-cast aluminum with attractive satin finish
* Exclusive "metal-to-metal" sealing system for a steam-tight seal; no gaskets
* Geared steam gauge, automatic overpressure release; settings of 5 psi, 10 psi, and 15 psi
* 19 inches high with 12-1/4-inch inside diameter; made in USA

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com Product Description
The high heat generated by a pressure cooker can kill more bacteria than a regular hot water bath, making this pressure cooker the ideal tool for canning vegetables and non-acid fruit. All-American's 30-quart pressure cooker/canner holds up to 19 pint jars or 14 quart jars. Only All-American pressure cookers/canners feature an exclusive, precision-machined "metal-to-metal" sealing system. Clamping locks align the cover to the base, forming a steam-tight seal. This means no gaskets to crack, burn, replace, and clean. At the same time, the metal-to-metal seal permits venting under unusual pressure conditions, making the seal safer than conventional rubber or composition gasket cookers.

Crafted of the finest hand-cast aluminum, this durable cooker/canner features a stay-cool Bakelite top handle, geared steam gauge, automatic overpressure release, and pressure regulator weight with settings of 5 psi, 10 psi, and 15 psi. The attractive satin finish is smooth and easy to clean. Double thick edges provide added protection on points of heaviest wear. The total measurements are 19 inches high with a 12-1/4-inch inside diameter. All-American pressure cookers are made in the USA. This cooker/canner is not suitable for glass or flat top ranges.

Customer Reviews

Awsome equipment that no canner should be without!5
The quality of these All American canners are absolutely top of the line and easy to work with. Once purchased, you have a canner for life. No gasket seals to be replacing. Wonderful. I have one already and am getting a second so I can tag team between the two when canning this summer. You can't beat this piece of kitchen equipment. This is the top of the line for canners.

Pricey and Worth It5
I have used this canner quite a bit with absolutely excellent results. I'm already saving up for the 40 qt. model. I simply can't praise this canner enough. It's rare to see this kind of quality of design and manufacturing.

Once you own your jars, home canned in cheaper and definitely of better quality than store bought. This canner is the best investment a cook can make.

DURABLE LONG TERM PURCHASE5
This canner is awesome. It will last my family for generations. If you want something that will can large amounts of food for a long time this is it. It is rather large and very heavy but that is what I wanted. If you want something smaller be prepared to be able to do less at one time. It just barely fits between the oven and the microwave so I went out into the garage and used the turkey fryer to can. All of the heat stays outside. I called customer service afer I chipped the handle and they took care of it by sending a new one out. They also answered a long list of questions that I had about canning without showing any impatience. I am very happy with it. Thanks

Crockpot 3735-WN 3-1/2-Quart Slow Cooker

Product Description

3.5 QT, White Slow Cooker. Auto Protect Safety System, Removable Stoneware, Rinse Clean, 2 Heat Settings, Glass Lid.

Product Details

* Amazon Sales Rank: #1699 in Kitchen & Housewares
* Brand: Rival
* Model: 3735-WN
* Dimensions: 9.10" h x 11.50" w x 14.70" l, 9.20 pounds

Features

* 3-1/2-quart oval-shaped slow cooker from the original Crock Pot makers
* Removable stoneware crock features rinse-clean lifetime stick resistant coating
* 3 knob settings: off, low, and high
* Wraparound heat cooks evenly; no stirring or supervision needed
* 1-year warranty

Amazon.com Review
When set on low for all-day simmering, this cooker from the makers of the original Crock Pot slowly tenderizes meat, turning even budget cuts into juicy meals. A modest 3-1/2-quart size, the oval-shaped crock holds enough chicken, beef, stew or soup for two to three people. The temperature knob has three settings: off, low, and high. The crock, which lifts from the base for cleaning, features a rinse-clean, lifetime stick-resistant coating. As long as extreme changes in temperature are avoided, such as placing in cold water when hot, the crock should give years of service. Both the crock and lid are dishwasher-safe. A one-year warranty covers this slow cooker from defects. --Ann Bieri


Customer Reviews

Great for singles, too!5
I'm single and live by myself, and I have found that this Crock Pot is an excellent way to have a really nice meal waiting for me when I get home from work. I can make enough to last a few meals, but the Crock Pot works great even with a smaller amount of food -- you just want to make sure you've got plenty of liquid in there. I use my Crock Pot all the time, and it has worked perfectly from the moment I took it out of the box. It is also quite easy to clean; even if you forget to clean it right away, a bit of a soak with hot soapy water does the trick.

Buy only Rival!5
I have an older version of thed 3.5 quart crock pot, with nonremovable stoneware and no cool touch. It's great! Removable crockery is good for easier cleanup, though. I have tried other brands, but only Rival Crock-Pots work just right. After all, they are the original! This size is great for one- or two-person households, or for desserts and side dishes for larger households. Accessories are available: meat rack, small bake pan, dust cover, insulated carrying tote. I love coming home to a cooked meal at the end of the day, when I'm too tired to cook. It's great for making cooked fruit jams, fruit desserts, bread pudding, rice pudding. Of course, beans, soups, and stews are also excellent. Meats are better browned or seared before putting in the crockpot, to avoid that hospital food texture. The recipes are also much better than the 70's onion soup/liquid smoke/canned condensed soup variety. Let this "little old lady" cook for you all day!

Great Crockpot for small family or single5
This is an excellent product. Crockpot is small enough for 1 but big enough to cook for a group. The outside of the crockpot stays cool to the touch while it makes your dinner.

Everyone should have one of these!

Kuhn Rikon Duromatic Top Pressure Cooker 7.4-Quart

Product Description

The Kuhn Rikon Duromatic Top 7.4-Quart Pressure Cooker features an automated lid-locking system and safety release back-up system to give you ultimate peace of mind. The spring-loaded pressure release valve is a large knob marked with easily visible red lines so cooks can see at a glance whether the correct pressure has been reached. When it's time to release pressure, just turn the knob to indicators for slow or quick release of steam. There is no need to hold down the release valve by hand. You see the exact pressure and know exactly when to start and stop cooking. So, there is no danger of overcooking and no noisy steam escapes. It's blissfully quiet. Cook healthy delicious meals in minutes, not hours. Easy to use with its interior fill lines, automatic locking system, and precision spring-loaded pressure release valve. A stainless steel steaming trivet is included. Cooking with a Duromatic Pressure Cooker not only saves an incredible amount of time, it produces exquisitely delicious food. Vitamins are sealed in, instead of boiled away, vegetables keep their bright colors and flavors are so intense less seasoning is needed. While you are saving time you are also saving money and natural resources. Using a Duromatic Pressure Cooker also conserves energy. The Kuhn Rikon Duromatic Top 7.4 quart is Kuhn Rikon's most popular and versatile size. Included is Quick Cuisine Cookbook, a $14.00 value - free.

Product Details

* Amazon Sales Rank: #9764 in Kitchen & Housewares
* Color: Stainless
* Brand: Kuhn Rikon
* Model: 3918
* Released on: 2006-10-14
* Dimensions: 8.00" h x 9.00" w x 14.00" l,

Features

* Pressure cooker saves time, money, and 70 % of conventional cooking energy
* 18/10 stainless steel with solid aluminum core in base heats quickly
* New generation system is quiet and safe; cooks in 1/3 the time of conventional methods
* Spring-loaded precision valve; integrated lid locking; 5 safety releases
* Made in Switzerland; dishwasher-safe; 10-year warranty

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com Review
If cooking with a pressure cooker sounds old-fashioned, think again. Great strides have enhanced the Duromatic since its inception in 1949. Swiss company Kuhn Rikon has made the pressure cooker quieter, safer, and a smart option in today's world, given how quickly it cooks and how much energy it saves. Pressure cookers are rapidly gaining in popularity, and this one is an exceptional model crafted in Switzerland. You'll find such foods as rice, grains, stews, poultry, and vegetables cook in just one-third the time of conventional methods, and retain vital nutrients. Choose from a variety of sizes to meet any household's needs. By saving 70 percent of the gas or electricity normally used in conventional cooking, the pressure cooker can pay for itself in just months.

The Duromatic is constructed of 18/10 stainless steel that encapsulates a solid aluminum core in the base for quick, even heating. Put in your ingredients (recipes are included), and the integrated lid automatically locks and won't open under pressure. A new generation spring-loaded valve uses red lines to show you at a glance whether the right pressure has been reached, and when cooking is done, you simply turn the knob for quick or slow release. Unlike old models, the Duromatic cooks quietly, without hissing, and five safety releases let you rest assured the pressure won't get too great. Kuhn Rikon covers the dishwasher-safe Duromatic with a 10-year warranty on materials and workmanship, and guarantees parts will be available for 15 years. --Ann Bieri

Customer Reviews

My favorite kitchen appliance5
I grew up watching my mother use a pressure cooker with a balancing weight on the lid - and constantly terrified that it was going to explode.

It has taken me 20 years to get over that fear - and after doing a lot of research, I finally bought a Kuhn Rikon Duromatic Pressure Cooker. As a working mother with two young children, I have NO IDEA how anyone survives without a pressure cooker. I use mine almost every day. Unlike a slow cooker, I'm not worried about whether my house is burning down because I left the slow cooker .... cooking.

I started with spareribs, which after 15 minutes tasted like they had been braised for 3 hours. Then I moved on to risotto, which after 6 minutes is delicious, creamy, and tastes like I slaved over the stove stirring it constantly for an hour. I have also made soups, which are quick and easy.

The pot is easy to use, easy to clean, and safe. Rather than wasting gas/electricity simmering a dish for hours, it's finished in literally a fraction of the time. And it doesn't sound like an airplane's landing in your kitchen.

This is by far the wisest kitchen appliance purchase I have ever made.

More than a timesaver -- a great cooking tool5
I use this pot at least once a week, particularly for risottos (try a butternut squash version!) and tougher cuts of meat, which cook to fork-tenderness in a trice. It's also fantastic for cooking dry beans (try the heirloom beans from Rancho Gordo) -- no need to soak overnight.

You have to keep an eye on the pressure indicator, but over time you learn how to adjust the burner to maintain high (but not too high) pressure for the recipe time. You can't really walk away from the kitchen, but then the cooking times are pretty brief.

Lorna Sass' cookbooks -- Cooking under Pressure and Pressure Perfect: Two Hour Taste in Twenty Minutes Using Your Pressure Cooker -- are invaluable. I haven't had a bum recipe yet.

I also have a smaller Fagor model, but I prefer the larger size as well as the simpler Kuhn-Rikon controls. For lots of dishes, you're not supposed to fill the cooker more than halfway, so anything smaller than four quarts is often too small, and the bigger size can handle everything.

Do RESEARCH-Be AWARE5
This pressure cooker is probably the best on the market and a perfect size for a family. But, watch what you are purchasing, there are 2 separate types of lids on the Duromatic pressure cooker. This is the superior lid as it is easier to see the pressure, and turn it down to appropriate settings-fast release, slow release, with minimal effort. The other Kuhn Rikon's are awesome too. As far as I can tell, they are the same, with the exception of the lid/release. If you have the extra money, this is worth it--especially if you are a beginner. I regret that I bought the duromatic set without realizing the difference in the lids. I guess on the bright side, it means that I have pressure cookers in different sizes now.

If you are nervous about pressure cooking, there are awesome books out there to help lead the way-including pressuring cooking for dummies. My favorite is Miss Vickies Book of Pressure Cooker recipes, also found on amazon. She also has a website that offers a lot of free information as well as free recipes (although some have a small charge).

So, cook your food faster, save energy, retain more nutrients, and serve delicious homemade meals that seem like you have spent all day in the kitchen.