Cooking a huge quantity of rice for commercial purposes is not a task you can afford to handle recklessly. Your only solution rests in the acquisition and subsequent use of the commercial rice cooker.
This is an appliance that is able to handle and facilitate the commercial preparation of rice. With many of these items in vogue at the moment, finding the right one is naturally bound to be an uphill task. It is against that backdrop that suitable guidance of this kind makes perfect sense.
List of The Best Commercial Rice Cookers:
9. Zojirushi THS-C40A-XA Commercial Electric Jar
The Zojirushi brand has been renowned for ages to produce rice cookers that are strong, reliable, and able to manage commercial applications. Why not pick this one and also enjoy these selfsame benefits? It is a flagship product of this company and has been vouched for success and exceptional performance.
Its dimensions are perhaps the most outstanding aspect of it. The sheer size and the weight of the cooker are both modest. Thus, it allows for consistent and unparalleled engagements at all times. You have it for the taking if you do change your base of engagement every now and then.
Key Features
- Brand: Zojirushi
- Item Weight: 600 grams
- Capacity: 0.36 liters (up to 4 liters)
- Voltage: 100 volts
- Wattage: 65 watts
- Material: Stainless steel
- Dimensions: 17.01 x 16.85 x 11.73 inches
- Model Number: THS-C40A-XA
- Item Weight: 1.32 pounds
- Warranty: Eligible for Return, Refund, or Replacement within 30 days of receipt
- Customer Reviews: 4.3 out of 5 stars from 69 ratings
Pros
- High-Quality Build: Made with durable stainless steel, ensuring long-lasting performance.
- Large Capacity: Can hold up to 4 liters, suitable for commercial use.
- Energy Efficient: Operates on 65 watts, making it energy-efficient for continuous use.
- User-Friendly: Easy to use with a straightforward design, suitable for restaurants and large families.
- Consistent Performance: Maintains the temperature of food, ensuring it stays warm and ready to serve.
- Compact Size: Despite its large capacity, the compact design allows it to fit easily in commercial kitchens.
Cons
- Weight: Weighing 1.32 pounds, it may be heavier than some other models, impacting portability.
- Voltage Requirement: Requires 100 volts, which may not be compatible with all regions without a converter.
- Maintenance: Stainless steel exterior may require regular cleaning to maintain its appearance.
8. SPT SC-1626 26-Cup (Uncooked) Rice Cooker, Black/Silver
Of all the appliances we have under our review, this is the one that serves many areas and locales of use. Some of these are resorts, hotels, and restaurants. It is manufactured to give off some maximum comfort while at the same time conferring added peace of mind.
Outside its core role of prepping the rice, this appliance also enjoys some great customer care backing and ease of washing. Moreover, it is also available at a fairly competitive price for you. In the course of its construction, the item goes through some rigorous testing to vouch for its overall quality.
Key Features
- Brand: SPT (Sunpentown)
- Capacity: 4 liters (26 cups uncooked)
- Color: Black/Silver
- Material: Stainless Steel
- Special Feature: Removable Bowl
- Wattage: 800 watts
- Voltage: 120 volts
- Dimensions: 17.75 x 17.75 x 14.5 inches
- Item Weight: 21 pounds
- Certification: ETL Sanitation certified
- Accessories Included: Measuring cup and rice scooper
- Warranty: 1 year on labor and parts
Pros
- Large Capacity: Can cook up to 26 cups of rice, ideal for restaurants or large gatherings.
- Durable Construction: Made with heavy-duty stainless steel for longevity and durability.
- Keeps Warm: Maintains the temperature of cooked rice for up to 12 hours.
- User-Friendly: Includes a removable bowl for easy cleaning and a measuring cup for accurate rice portions.
- Certified Safe: ETL Sanitation certification ensures it meets high safety and sanitation standards.
- Support for Small Business: This product comes from a small business brand.
Cons
- Heavy: Weighing 21 pounds, it is relatively heavy, which may impact portability and ease of storage.
- High Power Consumption: Uses 800 watts, which might be considered high for some users.
- No Advanced Features: Lacks additional modern features like digital controls or multiple cooking programs that are found in other rice cookers.
7. Aroma 48-Cup (Cooked) (24-Cup UNCOOKED) Commercial Rice Cooker (ARC-1024E)
Have the needs of so many people to care for? This could as well be the rice cooker you have been seeking. It has the ability to meet the needs of 48 people at a given time. That is besides being able also to make a wide variety of rice that meets different settings.
In a nutshell, the appliance is simple and comparatively easier to operationalize. It is hence great and relevant for those who have never attempted to use these items before. An automatic keep-warm feature exists to maintain the warmth of the rice for some time after concluding preparing it.
Key Features
- Brand: Aroma Housewares
- Capacity: 30 cups uncooked (60 cups cooked) for ARC-1033E and 20 cups cooked for ARC-360-NGP
- Color: White
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Material: Stainless Steel
- Special Features: Nonstick inner pots, automatic keep-warm function, one-touch operation
- Wattage: 1650 watts for ARC-1033E
- Included Components: Rice measuring cup, serving spatula, steam tray
- Product Dimensions: 17.7 x 17.7 x 14.5 inches
- Weight: 21 pounds
Pros
- Large Capacity: The ARC-1033E can prepare up to 60 cups of cooked rice, making it ideal for commercial use or large gatherings.
- One-Touch Operation: Simple and user-friendly operation with automatic keep-warm function ensures rice is always ready to serve.
- Nonstick Inner Pots: Both cookers feature nonstick inner pots, making them easy to clean.
- Durable Design: Heavy-duty stainless steel lid and construction ensure longevity and reliability, especially in a commercial setting.
- Versatile Cooking: The ARC-360-NGP includes a steam tray, allowing for simultaneous steaming of meats and vegetables while cooking rice.
Cons
- Weight: At 21 pounds, the rice cooker bundle is relatively heavy, which may impact portability and ease of storage.
- High Power Consumption: With 1650 watts for the ARC-1033E, it might be considered high for some users, leading to higher energy usage.
- Limited Advanced Features: Lacks modern features such as digital controls or multiple cooking programs that are found in other rice cookers.
6. Pantin 110 Cup Cooked (55 Cup Raw) Electric Rice Cooker for Commercial Restaurant
Have other vital tasks to carry out at the same time as the preparation of rice? If you have, we invite your attention to this specific cooker. It makes do with automatic parts and components. These tackle the task of preparing the rice in a manner that is devoid of too much attention from you.
Being large enough, the appliance is mainly suited for commercial settings and circumstances of use. Adding to its many superior advantages, this item meets the standards set forth by the Electronic Testing Laboratory. Its polished exterior serves to add some glamor to the interior décor of your home.
Key Features
- Brand: PANTIN
- Capacity: 21 liters (110 cups cooked, 55 cups raw)
- Dimensions: 18.5″ D x 18.5″ W x 16″ H
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Color: Silver
- Material: Stainless Steel
- Special Features: Automatic cooking, automatic keep warm, control panel, insulated, non-stick, one-touch operation, portable, removable bowl, ready indicator light, safety lock, steam vent, timer
- Wattage: 2850 watts
- Voltage: 220 volts
- Item Weight: 30 pounds
- Included Components: Power cord, spatula, instruction manual
- Certification: ETL Listed
Pros
- Large Capacity: Can cook up to 110 cups of rice, making it ideal for large gatherings or commercial use.
- Durable Construction: Made with an all-polished stainless steel exterior for longevity and easy cleaning.
- Automatic Functions: Features automatic cooking and keep-warm functions, ensuring rice is always ready to serve without overcooking.
- Non-Stick Pan: Comes with a heavy-duty non-stick coated pan, which is easy to clean and includes handles for easy lifting.
- ETL Listed: Certified for safety and quality, meeting industry standards.
- Versatile Use: Can also be used to make grits, oatmeal, or macaroni and cheese, offering more versatility in a commercial kitchen.
Cons
- High Power Requirement: Requires 2850 watts and 220 volts, which may not be compatible with standard household outlets without an adapter.
- Heavy: Weighs 30 pounds, which can make it less portable and more challenging to move around.
5. Rinnai Rice Cooker 55 Cups NSF Commercial GAS RER55ASL (Propane Gas)
To churn out a consistent streak of rice output, you need an appliance that is able to accept prompts and commands, store the same, and retrieve them later for the sake of preparing your rice. This is the one we would ask you to look up to. It is packed with loads of controls.
Among these are the automated keep warm feature, the automatic two-stage burner, and the accurate and truly dependable thermostat. They work hand in hand to manage your proper use and the associated outcomes. In total, it makes a whopping 55 cups of rice at one go!
Key Features
- Brand: Rinnai
- Capacity: 55 cups uncooked (110 cups cooked)
- Dimensions: 24″ D x 24″ W x 18″ H
- Power Source: Gas powered (propane)
- Gas Input: 9600 BTU
- Electrical Requirement: 120 V.AC / 60Hz; 23 Watts, 120V / 3A Fuse
- Certifications: CSA and NSF certified
- Item Weight: 42 pounds
- Material: Enamel outer casing with aluminum cook pot
- Special Features: Automatic two-stage burner, automatic simmer, accurate and dependable thermostat, durable handles, easy to clean
Pros
- Large Capacity: Can cook up to 110 cups of rice, making it suitable for commercial use or large gatherings.
- Certified Quality: Both CSA and NSF certifications ensure high standards of safety and performance.
- Gas Powered: Utilizes propane gas, which can be more efficient and cost-effective for high-volume cooking.
- Automatic Features: Includes an automatic two-stage burner and simmer function, ensuring consistent cooking results.
- Durable Construction: Enamel outer casing and aluminum cook pot provide durability and easy maintenance.
- Accurate Thermostat: Provides reliable temperature control for perfect rice every time.
Cons
- Heavy: Weighs 42 pounds, making it less portable and more challenging to move around.
- Non-Returnable: Due to Hazmat safety reasons, the product is non-returnable.
- Gas Requirement: Requires a propane gas source, which may not be convenient for all users.
4. Value Series RC-S300 Rice Cooker – 60 Cup, Stainless Steel
Want to accrue consistent and accurate cooking results every now and then? We have this cooker for your consideration and subsequent engagement. It is programmed and designed in such a manner as to manage the attainment of this end. That is mainly due to its possession of the memory function.
Aside from its reliability insofar as the production of rice is concerned, the appliance also does great wonders in adding to the beauty of your interior décor. A shiny stainless steel material adorns its exterior to let it sparkle when beheld with the natural eyes. Lastly, it has a matching lid for maximum enjoyment of cooking.
Key Features
- Brand: Value Series
- Capacity: 60 cups
- Color: Stainless Steel
- Material: Stainless Steel
- Lid Material: Stainless Steel
- Included Components: Instruction Manual
- Dimensions: 19 x 19 x 16 inches
- Item Weight: 24.9 pounds
Pros
- Large Capacity: Can cook up to 60 cups of rice, making it ideal for large gatherings or commercial use.
- Durable Construction: Made from stainless steel, ensuring longevity and resistance to wear and tear.
- Simplicity: Comes with a straightforward design and an easy-to-follow instruction manual, making it user-friendly.
- Positive Reviews: Several users have reported satisfaction with the product’s performance, particularly in restaurant settings.
Cons
- Mixed Reviews: While some users praise the product, others have reported significant issues such as unreliability and improper cooking.
- Heavy: Weighs 24.9 pounds, making it less portable and more challenging to move around.
3. Zojirushi NYC-36 20-Cup (Uncooked) Commercial Rice Cooker and Warmer, Stainless Steel
On the whole, this appliance is meant and intended for those who engage in commercial or outside catering services. That is given the extra-large stature that sees it accommodate a huge quantity of food and also expedites the task of transporting the gears from one area to another one.
A stainless steel exterior also exists to adorn the beauty and the elegant looks of the rooms wherein you choose to use the same. At its core is a motor that generates a whopping 1,300 watts of torque output. With it, you may comfortably serve 40 dishes of rice.
Key Features
- Brand: Zojirushi
- Capacity: 20 cups uncooked (40 servings cooked)
- Color: Stainless Steel
- Material: Stainless Steel
- Lid Material: Stainless Steel
- Dimensions: 17.25″ D x 17.25″ W x 13.5″ H
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Power Consumption: 1300 watts
- Product Care Instructions: Hand wash
- Certifications: cETLus listed and NSF certified
- Special Features: Automatic “Keep Warm” function, nonstick inner pan, detachable lid, single switch operation
Pros
- Large Capacity: Can cook up to 20 cups of uncooked rice, making it suitable for large gatherings or commercial use.
- Quick Cooking: Rice is ready in approximately 45 minutes.
- Automatic Keep Warm: Maintains rice at the perfect serving temperature without overcooking.
- Durable Construction: Stainless steel exterior ensures longevity and is easy to clean.
- User-Friendly: Simple single switch operation with convenient features like a nonstick pan and detachable lid for easy cleaning.
- Certified for Safety: cETLus listed and NSF certified, meeting high safety and sanitation standards.
Cons
- Heavy: Weighs 24.9 pounds, which may make it less portable.
- Large Size: The dimensions require ample counter space, which may not be suitable for smaller kitchens.
- Manual Cleaning: Requires hand washing, which might be less convenient than dishwasher-safe options.
2. Aroma Housewares 60-Cup (Cooked) (30-Cup UNCOOKED) Commercial Rice Cooker
Intending mainly to accrue and leverage the fluffy rice? None other than this rice cooker may come to your rescue. It is specially designed and structured to provide this very end for you. At the same time, it also provides the restaurants the leeway to generate higher quality rice.
Its capacity is large enough to handle a huge quantity of rice for you. This comes to about 60 cups of rice at any given time. Making it to stand apart from the others is the fact that it accepts and attaches to many accessories. All these ultimately extend its functionality.
Key Features
- Brand: Aroma Housewares
- Capacity: 30 cups uncooked (60 cups cooked)
- Color: Silver
- Material: Stainless Steel
- Lid Material: Stainless Steel
- Dimensions: 15.75″ D x 19″ W x 13.75″ H
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Power Consumption: 120V 60Hz 1550W
- Special Features: Automatic Keep Warm, removable nonstick inner pot, one-touch operation
- Included Components: Two rice measuring cups, stainless steel lid, nonstick inner pot, plastic rice spatula
- Product Care Instructions: Hand Wash
- Weight: 22.4 pounds
Pros
- Large Capacity: Can cook up to 60 cups of rice, making it ideal for large gatherings or commercial use.
- Automatic Keep Warm: Maintains rice at the perfect serving temperature without overcooking.
- Durable Construction: Features a heavy-duty stainless steel lid and a durable body designed for continuous use.
- Easy to Use: Simple one-touch operation allows for quick and hassle-free cooking.
- Versatile: Can cook various types of rice, including white rice, brown rice, jasmine rice, and sticky rice.
- Commercial Standards: Part of the commercial rice cooker line, allowing for restaurant-quality rice preparation.
Cons
- Large Size: The dimensions require ample counter space, which may not be suitable for smaller kitchens.
- Hand Wash Only: Requires manual cleaning, which might be less convenient than dishwasher-safe options.
1. Cuckoo CR-3032 30 Cup Electric Commercial Rice Cooker & Warmer
Standing tall among the many rice cookers we have around is this Cuckoo CR-3032. Its capacity stands at an impressive 30 cups and is hence great for moderate usage and food preparation. To generate the rice outputs, the appliance makes do with the steam cooking functionality.
This one manages to give off warmer, softer, and more delicious rice at a much larger capacity. Also existing as critical parts and aspects of this cooker are the stainless top cover, the thermal fuse, the dew dish, the detachable cover, and the pre-coated rice pot. They jointly combine to make your task pleasant and rewarding.
Key Features
- Brand: CUCKOO
- Capacity: 30 cups uncooked (60 cups cooked)
- Color: Silver/Black
- Material: Stainless Steel
- Lid Material: Plastic
- Dimensions: 18″ D x 10″ W x 24″ H
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Power Consumption: 890 watts
- Special Features: Non-stick inner pot, user-friendly digital touch controls, automatic keep warm mode
- Included Components: Rice spatula, rice measuring cup, cooking silicone pad, instruction manual
- Product Care Instructions: Hand Wash
- Weight: 22 pounds
- Certifications: cETL and NSF certified
Pros
- Large Capacity: Suitable for large gatherings or restaurants, able to cook up to 60 cups of rice.
- Durable Construction: High-quality stainless steel and non-stick inner pot ensure longevity and easy cleaning.
- User-Friendly: Simple switch press for cooking and automatic transition to keep warm mode.
- Certified Quality: cETL and NSF certifications ensure the highest safety and quality standards.
- Versatile Cooking: Can be used to prepare a variety of dishes including soups, stews, and chili.
- Easy to Clean: Removable cooking silicone pad and inner pot make for hassle-free cleaning.
Cons
- Plastic Lid: The plastic lid might not be as durable as stainless steel options.
- Weight: Weighs 22 pounds, which may affect portability.
- Temperature Issues: A few users mentioned that the temperature can be too hot when cooking smaller amounts of rice.
Things to Consider When Buying a Commercial Rice Cooker
When selecting a commercial rice cooker, it’s important to evaluate your specific needs and the features that will best serve your kitchen operations. Here are key factors to consider:
1. Capacity
- Volume of Rice: Assess the amount of rice your operation typically prepares in one batch. Commercial rice cookers vary in capacity, with some models cooking up to 60 cups of rice. Ensure the model you choose can handle your maximum requirements without the need for multiple batches.
- Flexibility: If your needs fluctuate, consider a rice cooker that performs well with both small and large quantities. Some cookers may not cook smaller amounts of rice as effectively, so check for flexibility in cooking capacity.
2. Build Quality and Materials
- Stainless Steel: Look for rice cookers with stainless steel exteriors and lids for durability and ease of cleaning. Stainless steel is resistant to rust and corrosion, making it ideal for heavy-duty use.
- Nonstick Inner Pots: A nonstick inner pot is essential for easy cleaning and preventing rice from sticking. Ensure the nonstick coating is of high quality to withstand frequent use.
3. Ease of Use
- Controls: Choose a rice cooker with intuitive controls, whether digital touchpads or simple switch operations. The easier it is to use, the more efficient your kitchen will be, especially during busy times.
- Keep-Warm Function: An automatic keep-warm feature is crucial for maintaining rice at the ideal serving temperature without overcooking. This feature allows you to prepare rice ahead of time and keep it ready for service.
4. Cleaning and Maintenance
- Removable Parts: Rice cookers with removable lids, inner pots, and condensation collectors are easier to clean and maintain. Check if these parts are dishwasher-safe for added convenience.
- Ease of Cleaning: Consider how easy it is to clean the cooker after each use. A nonstick inner pot and simple design with minimal crevices will reduce the time and effort required for cleaning.
5. Energy Efficiency
- Power Consumption: Commercial rice cookers can consume a significant amount of electricity. Check the wattage of the cooker and consider models that balance power consumption with efficiency, especially if you’ll be using the cooker frequently.
6. Certifications
- Safety and Quality: Look for cookers that are cETL or NSF certified, which ensures they meet safety and quality standards. These certifications are particularly important in commercial kitchens where food safety is a top priority.
7. Durability and Reliability
- Brand Reputation: Consider the reputation of the brand and the durability of the cooker. Brands like Zojirushi, Aroma Housewares, and CUCKOO are known for their quality and reliability in commercial settings.
- Customer Reviews: Read customer reviews to gauge the longevity and performance of the rice cooker. Look for patterns in feedback, especially regarding durability and any issues with the cooker breaking down after limited use.
8. Portability and Storage
- Size and Weight: Evaluate the size and weight of the rice cooker, especially if you have limited counter space or need to move the cooker between locations. Larger, heavier models may be more challenging to store and transport.
- Compact Design: If space is at a premium, consider models with a more compact design that still offers the capacity you need.
9. Price and Value
- Budget: Commercial rice cookers can range significantly in price. While higher-end models may offer more features and durability, there are budget-friendly options that still provide good value for their performance.
- Cost vs. Features: Consider the features that are most important to your operation and whether the additional cost of certain features (like digital controls or advanced keep-warm settings) is justified.
10. Warranty and Support
- Warranty: Check the warranty offered by the manufacturer. A longer warranty period can provide peace of mind, especially for more expensive models.
- Customer Support: Consider the availability and quality of customer support, should you need assistance with the product or repairs. Responsive customer service can be invaluable if issues arise.
Frequently Asked Questions
A commercial rice cooker is a high-capacity appliance designed for cooking large quantities of rice, typically used in restaurants, catering businesses, and other food service operations. These cookers are built to handle frequent and heavy use.
Capacity: Choose a cooker that matches your serving needs. Commercial models typically range from 20 to 60 cups.
Material: Stainless steel is preferred for its durability and ease of cleaning.
Features: Look for features like automatic keep warm, nonstick inner pots, and user-friendly controls.
Certifications: Ensure the cooker meets safety and quality standards such as cETL and NSF certifications.
Reviews: Check user reviews for insights on reliability and performance.
Most commercial rice cookers have removable nonstick inner pots and lids that can be hand washed with warm soapy water. Some parts may be dishwasher safe. Always refer to the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions.
Yes, many commercial rice cookers can be used to cook a variety of grains, soups, stews, and even chili. Check the user manual for specific instructions and recipes.
Cooking times can vary depending on the model and capacity. On average, it takes about 45 minutes to cook a full batch of rice in a commercial rice cooker.
The automatic keep-warm function maintains the rice at an optimal serving temperature after cooking, ensuring it stays fresh and ready to serve without drying out or overcooking.
CONCLUSION
We can never reiterate the need for you to exercise great care when seeking a rice cooker for yourself. These items are ordinarily expensive. Moreover, they are also highly specialized and unlikely to perform any rice cooking end at random. You really must be certain of the choice you make.
Perhaps as a way forward, we urge you to skim the list above and see to it that the items we have described fall within your range of preferences. Lastly, you should also factor in your own expertise as well as the quantities you are aiming at making. Best of luck with your subsequent choice!