Ever stared at a pile of rice, wondering if there’s a simpler way to cook it? You’re not alone! Many of us love fluffy, perfectly cooked rice, but getting it just right on the stovetop can sometimes feel like a culinary guessing game. That’s where the humble microwave rice steamer comes in, promising a quick and easy solution.
But with so many different types and brands out there, choosing the best one can feel overwhelming. Do you need a small one for yourself or a larger one for the family? What features actually make a difference? We understand the confusion, and that’s exactly why we’re diving deep into the world of microwave rice steamers today.
By the end of this post, you’ll have a clear understanding of what makes a great microwave rice steamer. We’ll break down the key features to look for, highlight some top picks, and help you find the perfect kitchen gadget to make your rice-cooking worries disappear. Get ready to say goodbye to mushy or crunchy rice forever!
Our Top 5 Microwave Rice Steamer Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Microwave Rice Steamer Detailed Reviews
1. Sistema Microwave Rice Cooker & Round Microwave Food Container Set
Rating: 8.9/10
Tired of messy stovetop rice cooking? This Sistema Microwave Rice Cooker & Round Microwave Food Container Set is your new kitchen hero! It’s not just for rice, either. You can cook couscous and polenta, or simply reheat leftovers. The set comes with a large 2.6L rice cooker and a handy 915ml round container, perfect for all your meal prep and storage needs.
What We Like:
- The 2.6L rice cooker makes cooking rice super easy and mess-free.
- It has a special plate that keeps your rice perfectly moist and fluffy.
- Just add rice and water, lock the clips, and let the microwave do the work.
- The round container has a steam release vent, so your food reheats without splattering.
- Both pieces are made from BPA-free and phthalate-free plastic, which is safe for your family.
- They are also dishwasher safe (on the top rack), microwave safe (with the vent open), and safe for the fridge and freezer.
- This set is designed and made in New Zealand, a country known for quality.
What Could Be Improved:
- The instructions for the rice cooker might seem a little tricky at first, but it gets easier with practice.
- While the set is great for cooking rice, it might not be ideal for very large batches of other grains.
This Sistema set simplifies meal prep and storage. It’s a practical and safe addition to any kitchen.
2. Joseph Joseph M-Cuisine Microwave Rice Cooker Steamer 2 Liter/8.5 Cup – Stone/Orange
Rating: 8.6/10
Making perfect rice in your microwave is now super easy with the Joseph Joseph M-Cuisine Microwave Rice Cooker Steamer. This handy gadget in a cool Stone/Orange color lets you do everything from measuring your rice to serving it, all in one container. It’s designed to make your cooking experience simpler and cleaner.
What We Like:
- It’s a 4-in-1 wonder: You can measure, wash, cook, and serve your rice or other grains in the same pot.
- Everything you need is included: The set comes with a 2-liter cooking pot, a colander for washing, a measuring cup, and a special rice paddle.
- Smart design for carrying: The rice paddle cleverly locks the pot lid and has two handles, making it easy to carry the pot from your microwave to your table.
- The paddle is multi-talented: It’s not just for locking the lid; you can also use it as a spoon to fluff and serve your fluffy rice.
- Cleaning up is a breeze: The whole set is safe to go in the dishwasher.
What Could Be Improved:
- Microwave power varies: Cooking times might need adjusting depending on your microwave’s strength.
- Grain variety: While great for rice, it might require some testing for other grains to get perfect results.
This Joseph Joseph rice cooker is a fantastic tool for anyone who wants fluffy, perfectly cooked rice without the fuss. It simplifies the cooking process and makes cleanup super easy, making it a great addition to any kitchen.
3. Microwave Rice Steamer Cooker BPA-Free – 2.6L (87.9oz) Red Rice Maker with Lid and Spoon – Dishwasher Safe Microwaveable Cooker for Basmati
Rating: 9.1/10
Tired of burnt rice or mushy pasta? This Microwave Rice Steamer Cooker is your new kitchen best friend! This bright red cooker is designed to make perfect rice, pasta, ramen, and even steam vegetables right in your microwave. It’s made with BPA-free plastic, so it’s safe for your family. The 2.6-liter size is great for families or for making extra to have leftovers. Plus, it comes with a lid and a handy spoon. Cleaning up is a breeze because it’s dishwasher safe.
What We Like:
- It cooks rice perfectly without any fuss.
- You can also cook pasta and ramen noodles easily.
- Steaming vegetables is quick and healthy.
- It’s made from safe, BPA-free plastic.
- The 2.6-liter capacity is good for most meals.
- It’s dishwasher safe, which saves you time.
- The included lid and spoon are very useful.
What Could Be Improved:
- The instructions could be a little clearer for first-time users.
- It would be nice if it came in more color options.
This rice cooker is a simple and effective way to prepare healthy meals. It makes cooking rice and other grains incredibly easy.
4. Professional Large Micro Cookware 3 Quart
Rating: 8.6/10
Tired of complicated cooking methods and messy kitchens? Meet the Professional Large Micro Cookware 3 Quart, your new best friend for quick, healthy meals right from your microwave. This versatile pot does it all – it steams veggies, cooks perfect rice, and even doubles as a mixing bowl and food storage container. Made from BPA-free, high-quality materials, it’s safe for your family and easy to clean in the dishwasher.
What We Like:
- Large 3-Quart Capacity: It’s big enough for family meals, holding up to 12 cups. You can easily measure ingredients thanks to the handy markings inside.
- Boil-over Protection: No more microwave messes! It has a special design that stops liquids from boiling over and keeps your microwave clean.
- Healthy Cooking: Steam your food with just a little water. This keeps more nutrients and flavor in your food. It’s a healthier way to cook, especially if you want to use less oil.
- Versatile Use: Cook rice, grains, corn, potatoes, carrots, and green beans in minutes. It’s also great for mixing and serving your creations, and even storing leftovers.
- Safe and Easy to Clean: It’s made from BPA-free materials, so it’s safe for food. Plus, it’s dishwasher safe, making cleanup a breeze.
What Could Be Improved:
- The inner wall marking goes up to 10 cups (2.5 L), which might be slightly confusing if you need to measure the full 12 cups (3 L) capacity.
This microwave cookware simplifies meal prep and promotes healthier eating. It’s a practical addition to any kitchen, making delicious and nutritious meals easier than ever.
5. Prep Solutions by Progressive Microwaveable Rice and Pasta Cooker-17 Piece Set Includes Measuring Spoons and Cups
Rating: 9.4/10
Tired of messy stovetop cooking? The Prep Solutions by Progressive Microwaveable Rice and Pasta Cooker is here to simplify your kitchen routine. This 17-piece set makes cooking rice and pasta a breeze, right in your microwave! It’s a game-changer for anyone who loves quick, easy meals.
What We Like:
- It cooks all types of rice perfectly and mess-free.
- The locking lid keeps spills away, making cleanup super easy.
- It’s versatile! You can steam veggies and measure ingredients with the included accessories.
- The 12-cup capacity is great for families, making up to 8 cups of cooked rice.
- It’s BPA-free and dishwasher safe, which makes life even easier.
- Prep Solutions makes practical kitchen tools that are built to last.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s great for rice and pasta, some users might want a larger capacity for bigger batches.
- The 17-piece set includes many helpful items, but keeping track of all the small parts could be a minor hassle for some.
This rice and pasta cooker is a smart addition to any kitchen, offering convenience and versatility. It’s a fantastic tool for making delicious meals without the usual fuss.
Your Guide to a Perfect Microwave Rice Steamer
Rice is a staple food for many people. It’s delicious and filling. Cooking rice on the stovetop can sometimes be tricky. You might burn it or make it sticky. A microwave rice steamer can make cooking rice super easy and fast. This guide will help you find the best one for your kitchen.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for a microwave rice steamer, keep these important features in mind.
- Capacity: How much rice do you want to cook at once? Steamers come in different sizes. Some are small for one or two people. Others are big enough for a family. Think about how many people you usually cook for.
- Vents: Look for a steamer with good vents. Vents let steam escape. This stops pressure from building up inside. It also helps cook the rice evenly.
- Lid Seal: A tight-fitting lid keeps the steam inside. This is important for cooking rice properly. It also helps prevent spills in your microwave.
- Handles: Safe handles are a must. They should be easy to grab. They should also stay cool when the steamer is hot.
- Measuring Lines: Some steamers have lines inside. These lines show you how much water and rice to add. This makes cooking even simpler.
- Dishwasher Safe: Cleaning up is easier if your steamer is dishwasher safe. Check the product details to see if it is.
Important Materials
The material of your rice steamer matters. It affects how well it works and how long it lasts.
- BPA-Free Plastic: Most microwave rice steamers are made of plastic. Look for plastic that is labeled “BPA-free.” BPA is a chemical that some people worry about. BPA-free plastic is considered safer for food.
- Silicone: Some steamers use silicone. Silicone is flexible and can handle high heat. It’s also usually dishwasher safe.
- Glass: While less common, some steamers might have glass components. Glass is good because it doesn’t react with food. However, glass can be heavy and breakable.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Certain things make a rice steamer better or worse.
- Thick Walls: A thicker plastic or silicone steamer will usually last longer. It will also hold heat better. This can lead to more evenly cooked rice.
- Poor Vent Design: If the vents are too small or not placed well, steam can build up. This can make the rice mushy or unevenly cooked.
- Cheap Plastic: Very thin or cheap plastic might warp or melt over time. This can affect its performance and safety.
- Easy to Clean: A steamer that is hard to clean can be annoying. Look for designs with fewer nooks and crannies where food can get stuck.
User Experience and Use Cases
Using a microwave rice steamer is usually very straightforward.
You typically add rice and water to the steamer. Then, you put it in the microwave. The cooking time will depend on your microwave and how much rice you are cooking. It’s much faster than cooking rice on the stove. You can use it for white rice, brown rice, and even some grains like quinoa. It’s perfect for quick meals when you’re in a hurry. Busy students, working professionals, or anyone who wants a simple way to cook rice will find these very useful.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How much rice can a typical microwave rice steamer hold?
A: Most steamers can cook about 1 to 2 cups of uncooked rice. This makes about 3 to 6 cups of cooked rice.
Q: Do I need to add oil to the rice?
A: No, you usually don’t need to add oil. The steaming process helps prevent the rice from sticking.
Q: Can I cook brown rice in a microwave rice steamer?
A: Yes, you can. Brown rice often needs a little more water and a longer cooking time than white rice.
Q: How do I know when the rice is done?
A: The rice should be tender and fluffy. If it’s still hard, you can microwave it for another minute or two.
Q: Is it safe to take a hot steamer out of the microwave?
A: Be careful! The steamer will be hot. Always use oven mitts or pot holders to remove it.
Q: Can I put the steamer in the dishwasher?
A: Many are dishwasher safe, but always check the product instructions first.
Q: Will the rice taste the same as stovetop rice?
A: The taste will be very similar. Some people find steamed rice to be extra fluffy.
Q: Can I use this to reheat rice?
A: Yes, you can use it to reheat leftover rice. Add a tablespoon of water to help it steam.
Q: What if my microwave doesn’t have a turntable?
A: If your microwave doesn’t spin, you might need to rotate the steamer halfway through cooking to ensure even heating.
Q: How long do microwave rice steamers usually last?
A: With good care, a quality BPA-free plastic steamer can last for several years.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.