Cast iron cookware has been used for years and for good reason. It is durable, versatile, and provides excellent heat distribution.
And while cast iron is traditionally known for its use in cooking pots and pans, it can also be used in rice cookers.
Cast iron rice cookers have been around but are less well-known than other rice cookers. However, Cast iron rice cookers offer several advantages worth considering.
One of the main advantages of a cast iron rice cooker is its durability. Cast iron is a solid and resilient material that can last for geneCast Iron Rice Cooker.
Unlike other types of rice cookers that may need to be replaced sometime every few years, a cast iron rice cooker can last a lifetime with proper care.
Cast iron can also be passed down from generation to generation. A rice cooker can become a family heirloom. Can you imagine?
This article will review some of the best Cast iron rice cookers that give the best consistency.
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Contents
Top Recommended Cast Iron Rice Cooker
Here are our top picks for some of the best Cast iron cookers to add to your kitchen:
1. Iwachu Japanese Cast Iron Gohan Nabe Rice Cooker
The Iwachu Japanese Cast Iron Gohan Nabe Rice Cooker is a high-quality cooking pot that easily prepares delicious, fluffy rice.
This cast iron pot is designed to retain heat, ensuring your rice is always perfectly cooked. With a capacity of 2go or approximately 1-1/2 cups of uncooked rice, this pot is perfect for small families or couples.
One of the great things about this rice cooker is its versatility. You can use it to make different rice dishes, including takikomi Gohan, a Japanese dish made with a light dashi broth and a combination of vegetables and meat ingredients.
The pot lid is heavy, which ensures a tight seal, while the raised bumps on the underside help to distribute condensation evenly back onto the rice during cooking. The pot's rim also has a built-in channel to catch any spills in case of boil-over.
Handcrafted by skilled artisans in Japan, this rice cooker is a testament to Iwachu's commitment to quality and tradition.
The company has been producing ironware for over 100 years. Its products are known for superior quality, beauty, and lasting durability.
This Cast Iron is an excellent investment for anyone who loves to cook rice. Its high-quality construction and versatile design will help you create delicious and fluffy rice dishes for years to come.
Key Features
- Capacity of 2go, or approximately 1-1/2 cups of uncooked rice
- Designed for heat retention
- Handcrafted by skilled artisans in Japan
- Built-in channel on the rim to catch any spills in case of boil-over
Pros
- Retains heat well for even cooking
- Versatile design allows for making different rice dishes.
- Durable and long-lasting
- Built-in channel on the rim prevents messes
Cons
- It may require special care and maintenance compared to other rice cookers.
2. Staub La Cocotte de Gohan, 2 Cups, Cast Enameled Pot
The Staub La Cocotte de Gohan is an induction-compatible cast enamel pot with a finish type of enamel.
It weighs 5.1 lbs (2.35 kg) and has a height of 6.1 inches (155 mm), including the lid. It is made in France with cast iron (enamel processed) for the body and steel (nickel plated) for the knob.
The cocotte has a rounded form that considers the convection when cooking rice, ensuring that the rice is cooked evenly.
The back of the lid is incorporated into the chistera, allowing you to rotate the entire heat without disturbing it and cook rice at once.
The cocotte can cook exquisite rice with a soft and glossy finish and is also helpful for cooking other dishes.
The product comes with an instruction manual with recipes and a serial number for registration.
The Staub La Cocotte de Gohan is a high-quality rice cooker with excellent heat retention and can produce delicious, fluffy, glossy rice.
The cocotte is also versatile and can be used to prepare various dishes. Its size and weight make it easy to use and store, and its compatibility with different heat sources, including induction, gas, and Oven, makes it a versatile kitchen tool.
Key Features
- Cast iron pot with enameled finish
- Chistera design on the lid
- Compatible with induction, gas, and oven heat sources
- It comes with an instruction manual and recipes
Pros
- High-quality cast iron construction ensures durability and even cooking
- The Chistera design on the lid helps to distribute heat evenly.
- It can be used with almost all heat sources, including induction, gas, and ovens.
Cons
- Higher price point compared to some other rice cookers
3. Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Rice Pot with Lid
The Le Creuset enameled cast iron rice pot with lid and stoneware insert is a versatile kitchen tool for preparing perfect batches of rice and grains every time.
It is made of high-quality cast iron, which provides superior heat distribution and retention.
The enameled finish makes it easy to use and clean, and the ergonomic handles are designed for easy lifting.
The rice pot's tall curved sides and precision lid promote convection and moisture circulation, resulting in evenly cooked grains.
The stoneware inner lid has steam vents to prevent boil-over and enhance cooking performance.
The black satin interior enamel develops a patina over time, enhancing cooking performance.
Le Creuset enameled cast iron is a trusted favorite among master chefs and home cooks alike, thanks to its exceptional heat retention and unparalleled vibrancy.
It is designed for everyday durability and is oven-safe up to 500°F (black phenolic Signature knobs up to 480°F and Classic knobs up to 390°F). It is also safe for dishwasher use.
The Le Creuset rice pot holds four cups of cooked rice, making it an excellent tool for cooking large or small batches.
Its compatibility with all cooktops makes it a versatile addition to any kitchen. The product requires no seasoning and is resistant to dulling, staining, chipping, and cracking.
One demerit of this product is that it may be heavier than similar products.
Features
- It comes with a stoneware insert that has steam vents to prevent a boil-over
- It has tall curved sides and a precision lid that promotes convection and moisture circulation for evenly cooked grains.
- Compatible with all cooktops and oven-safe up to 500°F
- Safe for dishwasher use
- Holds up to 2.25 quarts (or four cups) of cooked rice
Pros
- Exceptional heat retention qualities allow for precise temperature control
- The handles are Ergonomic, which makes them easily transported.
- Beautiful, durable enamel finish resists dulling, staining, chipping, and cracking.
- It comes with a lifetime warranty.
Cons
- Expensive compared to other rice cookers on the market.
- Stoneware inserts can be fragile and may need to be replaced over time.
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4. Lodge Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven, 6-Quart
The Lodge Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven is a kitchen staple that combines both style and function.
The Dutch Oven is made from cast iron, known for its durability and heat retention properties.
The enamel finish is a layer of glass bonded to the cast iron, making it heat-tolerant, non-reactive to ingredients, and impervious to water.
This 6-quart Dutch Oven is perfect for cooking and serving meals that leave a lasting impression.
It can be used for marinating, refrigerating, cooking, and serving and is ideal for various cooking techniques such as broiling, braising, baking, roasting, sautéing, simmering, and frying. It can be used in the Oven up to 500°F and on any stovetop.
To care for the Lodge Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven, it is recommended to hand wash it with warm soapy water and a nylon scrub brush to preserve the cookware's original appearance.
Key Features
- It is made of enameled cast iron with a glass surface that won't react to ingredients.
- It is Oven safe for up to 500°F and suitable for use on any stovetop.
Pros
- Enameled cast iron material ensures durability and long-lasting use.
- The glass surface is easy to clean and will not react with ingredients.
- It can be readily used on any stovetop, including induction.
- It is suitable for marinating, refrigerating, cooking, and serving.
Cons
- It is not dishwasher safe.
- It is very fragile and may chip or crack if mishandled.
5. Cast Iron Double Dutch Oven -2-in-1 Multi-Cooker: 5-Qt Deep Pot + 10" Skillet - Frying Pan Converts to Lid of Combo Dutch Oven
The Cast Iron Double Dutch Oven is a versatile cooking set that includes a 5-quart deep pot and a 10-inch skillet, which can also be used as a lid for the pot.
It is a 2-in-1 multi-cooker that can be used for grilling, stovetop cooking, barbecuing, and induction cooking.
Every part of this cooker is useful, from the lid, which converts to a 10 inches frying pan, to the pot perfect for baking.
One of its key features is that it comes pre-seasoned, allowing you to start cooking immediately without having to season the pans.
It is easy to clean and provides excellent results, such as perfect bread loaves, evenly distributed moisture, and delicious soups and roasts. The lid is heavy and does not slide off easily, making it a secure fit.
Key Features
- Pre-seasoned surface
- Multi-functional 2-in-1 design
- Durable cast iron construction
- 5-quart capacity
- Deep pot and 10" skillet
- The frying pan converts to the lid of a combo Dutch oven
- Compatible with grill, stove top, BBQ, and induction cooktops
Pros
- Pre-seasoned, ready-to-use surface saves time and effort.
- The multi-functional design offers versatility and convenience.
- Durable cast iron construction ensures even heat distribution and retention.
- Compatible with a variety of cooking surfaces, including induction cooktops.
- Cheap compared to other cast iron cookers.
Cons
- Requires special care and maintenance to prevent rust and maintain the seasoning.
The Advantages of Cast Iron Rice Cooker Over the Electric Rice Cooker
While electric rice cookers offer convenience and ease of use, cast iron cookers offer a range of benefits over electric rice cookers:
1. Durability
Cast iron rice cookers are incredibly durable and can last generations and be passed on if proper care is taken.
Unlike electric rice cookers, there are no electronic components to break down or malfunction.
2. Energy efficiency
Cast iron rice cookers use the heat retention properties of cast iron for cooking rice.
Once the rice is brought to a boil, the heat can be easily turned off, and the rice will continue cooking as it remains in cast iron without any additional energy input.
In contrast, electric rice cookers must be plugged in and use electricity to cook rice.
3. Versatility
Cast iron rice cookers can be used on various heat sources, including gas, electricity, and open fires.
This makes them a great option for outdoor cooking or in areas where electricity is unreliable.
4. Health benefits
Cooking rice in a cast iron pot can increase the iron content of the rice, which can benefit those who are iron deficient.
Additionally, cast iron is a natural and safe cooking surface, unlike non-stick coatings often found in electric rice cookers.
5. Flavor
Cast iron rice cookers can impart a unique flavor to the rice, especially if the pot has been well-seasoned over time.
This has been said to add depth and complexity to the taste of the rice that may be lacking in electric rice cookers.
Drawbacks of Cast Iron Rice Cookers Over Electric Rice Cookers
While cast iron rice cookers have many benefits, they also have a few drawbacks:
1. Longer Cooking Time
Cast iron rice cookers take longer to cook rice than electric rice cookers. This is because cast iron takes longer to heat up and cool down.
2. Heavy and Bulky
Cast iron rice cookers are heavier and bulkier than electric ones, making them more challenging to move around and store.
3. Higher Maintenance
Cast iron rice cookers require more maintenance than electric rice cookers. They must be seasoned appropriately to prevent rust and maintain their non-stick properties. They need to be cleaned and dried carefully to avoid rusting.
4. Limited Features
Cast iron rice cookers have fewer features than electric rice cookers. They typically have only one function.
5. Cost
Cast iron rice cookers are generally more expensive than electric rice cookers, which may not be affordable for some households.
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Wrapping Up
A cast iron rice cooker is an excellent choice for those who want to experience traditional rice cooking methods.
It offers many advantages over electric rice cookers, including the ability to distribute heat evenly, retain moisture, and add depth to the flavor of the rice.
However, it also has some drawbacks, such as the need for manual temperature regulation and occasional maintenance.
Despite these drawbacks, many prefer the authenticity and quality of rice cooked in a cast iron rice cooker.
So, if you are a rice enthusiast who values tradition and flavor over convenience, a cast iron rice cooker might be the perfect addition to your kitchen.
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