8-Cup Digital Rice
Cooker & Food Steamer
Instruction Manual
www.AromaCo.com
ARC-998
Congratulations on your purchase of the 8-Cup Digital Rice Cooker
and Food Steamer.
Aroma has simplified the art of cooking perfect, fluffy rice down to the push of a
button. Just add rice, water and turn it on. The machine will automatically
switch to warming mode when the rice is done. This versatile appliance even
simmers soups and stews.
The specialized brown rice function will make tough-to-cook brown rice to
perfection. Now you can enjoy the great taste and nutritional benefits of brown
rice, without the hassles of preparing it the traditional way.
This rice cooker also comes equipped with a steam tray. Ideal for preparing
nutritious, well-balanced meals, steaming locks in food’s natural flavor, moisture
and nutrients without the use of added oils or fats. Included in this instruction
manual is a handy steaming reference to guide you through the preparation of
nearly all your favorite vegetables and meats. Steam vegetables or meat while
simultaneously cooking rice to make a complete, healthy meal with ease in your
rice cooker!
This manual contains instructions for the use of your new rice cooker as well as
some additional information about rice. For recipe suggestions or more kitchen
solution ideas, please visit us online at www.AromaCo.com.
Please read all the instructions before first use.
Published By:
Aroma Housewares Co.
6469 Flanders Drive
San Diego, CA 92121
U.S.A.
1-800-276-6286
www.aromaco.com
© 2007 Aroma Housewares Company All rights reserved.
IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS
Basic safety precautions should always be followed when using electrical
appliances, including the following:
1. Important: Readall instructions
carefullybefore first use.
2. Do nottouchhot surfaces. Use
handles or knobs
3. Useonly on a level, dryand heatresistantsurface.
4. To protect againstelectrical shock,
do notimmerse cord, plug or the
applianceinwaterorany other
liquid.
5. Close supervision is necessarywhen
theappliance is usedbyornear
children.
6. Unplugfrom outletwhen notinuse
andbefore cleaning. Allow unit to
cool before putting on or taking off
parts,and before cleaning the
appliance.
7. Do notoperate anyappliance with
a damagedcord or plug or after
theappliance malfunctions or has
been damagedinany manner.
Returnthe appliance to thenearest
authorized servicefacilityfor
examination,repair or adjustment.
8. Theuse of accessory attachments
notrecommendedbythe
appliancemanufacturer may result
in fire, electric shock or injury.
9. Do notuse outdoors.
10. Do notlet cordtouchhot surfaces
or hang overthe edgeofa counter
or table.
11. Do notplaceonornear a hot
burnerorina heatedoven.
12. Do notuse thisappliance for other
than its intended use.
13. Extreme cautionmust be used when
movingthe appliance containing
hotoils or other liquids.
14. Do nottouch, cover or obstruct the
steam valve on thetop of the rice
cookerasitisextremely hot and
maycauseburns.
15. Useonly with a 120V AC power
outlet.
16. Alwaysunplug fromthe baseofthe
wall outlet. Never pullonthe cord.
17. Therice cookershould be operated
on a separate electricalcircuit from
other operatingappliances. If the
electric circuit is overloadedwith
other appliances, this appliance
maynot operateproperly.
18. Alwaysmake sure the outside of the
inner cooking pot is drypriortouse.
If cooking pot is returned to cooker
when wet,itmay damage or cause
theproduct to malfunction.
19. Useextreme caution whenopening
thelid during or after cooking. Hot
steam will escape andmay cause
burns.
20. Rice should notbeleft in therice
bowl withthe keepwarm function
on formore than 24 hours.
21. To prevent damage or deformation,
do notuse the inner potona
stovetop or burner.
22. To disconnect, turn any control to
"OFF",then removeplug from wall
outlet.
23. To reducethe riskofelectricshock,
cook onlyinthe provided
removablecontainer.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
1
SHORT CORD INSTRUCTIONS
1. A short power-supply cord is provided to reduce the risks resulting from
becoming entangled in or tripping over a longer cord.
2. Longer extension cords are available and may be used if care is exercised in
their use.
3. If a longer extension cord is used:
a. The marked electrical rating of the extension cord should be at least as
great as the electrical rating of the appliance.
b. The longer cord should be arranged so that it will not drape over the
counter top or tabletop where it can be pulled by children or tripped
over unintentionally.
POLARIZED PLUG
This appliance has a polarized plug (one blade is wider than the other); follow
the instructions below:
To reduce the risk of electric shock, this plug is intended to fit into a polarized
outlet only one way. If the plug does not fit fully into the outlet, reverse the
plug. If it still does not fit, contact a qualified electrician. Do not attempt to
modify the plug in any way.
If the supply cord is damaged, it must be replaced by the manufacturer, its
service agent or a similarly qualified person in order to avoid a hazard.
This appliance is for household use only.
2
PARTS IDENTIFICATION
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1
3
9
10
2
4
5
6
8
7
11
13
1. Lid Release Button
2. Handle
3. Steam Vent
4. Lid
5. Condensation Collector
6. Digital Control Panel
7. Brown Rice Button
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8. White Rice Button
9. Steam Button
10. Warm/Off Button
11. Inner Pot
12. Steam Tray
13. Measuring Cup
14. Rice Paddle
3
USING YOUR RICE COOKER
Before First Use:
1. Read all instructions and important safeguards.
2. Remove all packaging materials and make sure items are received in good
condition.
3. Tear up all plastic bags as they can pose a risk to children.
4. Wash lid and accessories in warm, soapy water. Rinse and dry thoroughly.
5. Remove inner pot from rice cooker and clean with warm, soapy water. Rinse
and dry thoroughly before returning to cooker.
6. Wipe body clean with a damp cloth.
7. Wash steam vent. See page 7 for detailed instructions.
• Do not use abrasive cleaners or scouring pads.
• Do not immerse the rice cooker base, cord or plug in water at any time.
To Cook Rice:
1. Using the measuring cup provided, measure out the desired amount of rice.
One cup refers to one full, level cup.
industry standards (180mL) and is not equal to one U.S. cup.
2. Rinse rice in a mesh strainer or other separate container (do not rinse rice in the
inner pot) until the water becomes relatively clear. Drain; then place rinsed rice
into the inner pot.
3. Using the measuring cup provided or the measurement lines inside the inner
pot, add the appropriate amount of water to the inner pot. A helpful
rice/water measurement guide is included on page 8. Smooth over the top of
the rice with the rice paddle so that rice surface is level to ensure even
cooking.
TIP: For softer rice, allow the rice to soak for 10-20 minutes prior to beginning the
cooking cycle.
4. Place the inner pot in the rice cooker. Close the lid, making sure that it locks
into place, and plug power cord into a wall outlet. The “WARM/OFF” light will
flash.
5. To begin cooking, press the "WHITE RICE" or "BROWN RICE" button depending
on the type of rice to be cooked. The cooking mode indicator light will
illuminate. Once cooking is complete, the rice cooker will automatically switch
to “KEEP WARM” mode. (See Note About Brown Rice on Page 5.)
TIP: If you wish to cancel your selection at any time, press the “OFF” button and
reset by pressing the appropriate cooking button.
The measuring cup provided adheres to rice
* It is important that the outside surface of the inner pot is completely clean and dry
before it is placed into the rice cooker. Water, food or other substances on the pot
will come into contact with the heating element and may cause damage to the
product.
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USING YOUR RICE COOKER
6. After cooking, open the lid and use the rice paddle to stir the rice. This will release
excess moisture and give the rice a fluffier texture. Then, close the lid and allow
the unit to remain on warm mode for 5-10 minutes. This will ensure optimal rice
texture and moisture level.
7. Press the "OFF" button to turn off the rice cooker. If the “OFF” button is not
pressed, the rice cooker will remain in “KEEP WARM” mode. It is not
recommended to leave rice on “KEEP WARM” mode for more than 12 hours.
NOTE ABOUT BROWN RICE
Brown rice requires a much longer cooking cycle than other rice varieties
due to the extra bran layers on the grains. The Brown Rice function on
this rice cooker allows extra time and adjusted heat settings in order to
cook the rice properly.
To Steam Food:
1. Add the desired amount of water to the inner pot. A convenient steaming
guide has been included on page 10 for vegetables and page 11 for meat.
2. Place steam tray inside rice cooker.
3. Place food on steam tray and close the lid.
4. Press the “STEAM” button.
5. When steaming is complete, the rice cooker will automatically switch to “OFF”.
6. Remove food immediately after cooking process has completed. Leaving it in
the rice cooker may cause food to over cook.
SEE PAGE 6 FOR INSTRUCTIONS ON COOKING RICE
AND STEAMING SIMULTANEOUSLY.
CAUTION:
• Only open lid when necessary. When opening lid during operation, use
caution as steam escaping will be extremely hot.
• If cooking pot is returned to cooker when wet it will damage this
product, causing it to malfunction.
5
USING YOUR RICE COOKER
To Steam Food And Cook Rice Simultaneously:
One of the most convenient features of this rice cooker is the ability to both cook
rice and steam food simultaneously, ideal for creating delicious all-in-one meals.
1. Place the desired amount of rice and appropriate amount of water into the
inner pot. See “To Cook Rice” on page 4 for details. Do not attempt to cook
more than 6 cups (uncooked) of rice if trying to use the steam tray
simultaneously, or the steam tray will not fit.
2. Place the inner pot into the unit and begin to cook the rice.
3. Refer to the steaming guides for vegetables (page 10) or meat (page 11) for
hints and approximate steaming times. It is best to insert the food to be
steamed toward the end of the rice cooking cycle so that your meal is fresh
and warm all at once.
4. Place your choice of vegetables or meat into the steam tray. Open the lid,
using caution as steam escaping will be extremely hot, place steam tray into
the rice cooker.
5. Close the lid and allow the cooker to resume cooking.
6. Once food has been steamed for the appropriate time open the lid. Use
caution when opening lid as steam escaping will be extremely hot. Remove
the steam tray and check food to be sure it has been thoroughly cooked.
Exercise caution when removing the steam tray as well; it will be hot.
7. Close the lid of the rice cooker and allow rice to continue to cook until
finished. The unit will chime when rice is ready and switch to keep
warm mode.
NOTE
It is possible to steam at any point during the rice cooking cycle.
However, it is recommended that you steam during the end of the
cycle so that steamed food does not grow cold or become soggy
before the rice is ready.
6
HOW TO CLEAN
Always unplug unit and allow to it cool completely
before cleaning.
To Clean Inner Pot and Accessories
1. Remove the inner cooking pot. Wash it in warm, soapy water using a nylon
sponge or dishcloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or scouring pads, as they
may damage the finish or create a risk of electric shock.
2. If rice is stuck to the bottom of the inner pot; soak in warm, soapy water
before scrubbing to avoid damage to the non-stick coating.
3. Rinse and dry thoroughly.
4. Repeat process with steam tray and other provided accessories.
5. Empty out condensation collector into sink after each use. Remove by
pressing on the arrow marked “PUSH”. Attach before next use.
To Clean Rice Cooker Exterior
1. Wipe the body of the rice cooker clean with a damp cloth.
2. Dry with a soft cloth.
To Clean the Underside of the Lid
The underside of the lid should be cleaned after every use.
1. Wipe the underside of the lid with a warm, damp cloth.
2. Dry with a soft cloth.
To Clean Steam Vent
Steam Valve should be cleaned after every use.
1. Pull out the steam vent as shown
in Diagram 1.
2. Empty and wash the steam vent
in warm, soapy water. Rinse
thoroughly.
3. Dry the steam vent with a soft
cloth.
4. Reinsert the steam vent for next use.
IMPORTANT
• Do not use harsh or abrasive cleaners.
• This appliance and the inner pot are NOT dishwasher safe.
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Diagram 1
COOKING GUIDE
White Rice/Water Measurement Chart:
UNCOOKED
RICE
2 Cups 2-1/2 Cups Line 2 4 Cups
3 Cups 3-1/2 Cups Line 3 6 Cups
4 Cups 4-1/2 Cups Line 4 8 Cups
5 Cups 5-1/2 Cups Line 5 10 Cups
6 Cups 6-1/2 Cups Line 6 12 Cups
7 Cups 7-1/2 Cups Line 7 14 Cups
8 Cups 8-1/2 Cups Line 8 16 Cups
WHITE RICE
WATER WITH
MEASURING CUP
WATERLINE
INSIDE POT
Brown Rice/Water Measurement Chart:
UNCOOKED
RICE
2 Cups 3 Cups 4 Cups
3 Cups 4-1/4 Cups 6 Cups
4 Cups 5-1/2 Cups 8 Cups
5 Cups 6-3/4 Cups 10 Cups
6 Cups 8 Cups 12 Cups
BROWN RICE
WATER WITH MEASURING
CUP
APPROX COOKED RICE
APPROX COOKED
RICE YIELD
YIELD
NOTE
• Due to the extra water needed to cook brown rice, the maximum
amount of brown rice that may be cooked at one time is 6 cups.
• Wild rice and rice medleys vary in their contents. Some rice mixes
will require longer cooking times and/or additional water. Refer to
the package instructions for cooking suggestions.
• The measuring cup included adheres to rice industry standards and is
not equal to one U.S. cup. The chart above refers to cups of
rice/water according to the measuring cup provided.
• Do not place more than 8 cups of uncooked rice into this appliance at
one time. The maximum capacity of this unit is 8 cups of uncooked rice
(6 if using brown rice) which yields 16 cups of cooked rice (12 if brown
rice).
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COOKING TIME GUIDE
HELPFUL HINTS
1. Rinse rice before placing into the inner pot to remove excess bran and
starch. This will help reduce browning and sticking to the bottom of the
pot.
2. If you have experienced any sticking with the type of rice you are using,
try adding a light coating of vegetable oil or non-stick spray to the bottom
of the inner pot before adding rice.
3. The chart on page 8 is only a general measuring guide. As there are
many different kinds of rice available (see About Rice on page 12),
rice/water measurements may vary slightly.
WHITE RICE
UNCOOKED CUPS
2 Cups 30-35 Min 2 Cups 1:40-45 Min
3 Cups 32-37 Min 3 Cups 1:42-47 Min
4 Cups 34-39 Min 4 Cups 1:50-55 Min
5 Cups 38-43 Min 5 Cups 1:54-59 Min
6 Cups 40-45 Min 6 Cups 1:56-2:01Min
7 Cups 41-46 Min 7 Cups N/A
8 Cups 43-48 Min 8 Cups N/A
Cooking times are approximate. This table is for reference only. Possible
variations in cooking times may be caused by one or more of the following
factors:
• Variations in the type of rice being cooked
• Variations in the amount of rice and/or water in the inner pot
• If you are making a second batch of rice shortly after the first batch,
cooking times may be reduced because the heating element will
already be warm.
• Opening the lid during the cycle causes a loss of heat and steam.
Cooking time may be prolonged if the lid is opened before the rice is
finished.
COOKING TIME
BROWN RICE
UNCOOKED CUPS
COOKING TIME
9
STEAMING GUIDE
Vegetable Steaming Chart:
VEGETABLE AMOUNT OF WATER STEAMING TIME
Asparagus 1/2 Cup 10 Minutes
Broccoli 1/4 Cup 5 Minutes
Cabbage 1 Cup 15 Minutes
Carrots 1 Cup 15 Minutes
Cauliflower 1 Cup 15 Minutes
Corn 1 Cup 15 Minutes
Eggplant 1-1/4 Cup 20 Minutes
Green Beans 1 Cup 15 Minutes
Peas 1/2 Cup 10 Minutes
Spinach 1/2 Cup 10 Minutes
Squash 1/2 Cup 10 Minutes
Zucchini 1/2 Cup 10 Minutes
HELPFUL HINTS
1. Since most vegetables only absorb a small amount of water, there is no
need to increase the amount of water with a larger serving of
vegetables.
2. Unless necessary to check on food, keep the lid closed during the entire
steaming process. Opening the lid causes a loss of heat and steam,
resulting in a slower cooking time. If you find it necessary to open the lid,
you may want to add a small amount of water to help restore the
cooking time.
3. Altitude, humidity and outside temperature will affect cooking times.
4. The steaming chart is for reference only. Actual cooking time may vary.
10
STEAMING GUIDE
Meat Steaming Chart:
Meat Amount of Water Steaming Time
Fish 2 Cups 15 Min. 140º
Chicken 2-1/2 Cups 20 Min. 165º
Medium = 15 Min.
Beef 2-1/2 Cups
Pork 2-1/2 Cups 20 Min. 160º
1. Steaming times may vary depending on the cut of meat being used.
2. To ensure meat tastes its best, and to prevent possible illness, check that
meat is completley cooked prior to serving. Use a meat thermometer to
determine if meat has reached its safely cooked temperature. If it has
not, simply place more water in the inner pot and repeat the cooking
process until the adequate temperature has been reached.
Med.-Well = 20Min.
Well = 23 Min.
NOTE
Safely Cooked
Temperature
160º
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ABOUT RICE
Rice is a valuable source of low fat, complex carbohydrates and is
abundant in thiamin, niacin and iron. It is an essential ingredient for a
healthy diet.
There are many different varieties of rice available in the market. Your
Aroma Rice Cooker can cook any type perfectly every time. Following
are the commonly available varieties of rice and their characteristics:
Long Grain Rice
Typically this rice is not starchy and
has loose, individual grains after
cooking. "Carolina" is firm, and
"Jasmine" is the firmest of the long
grain variety and is flavorful and
aromatic.
Short Grain Rice
Short grain is characteristically
soft, sticky and chewy. This is the
rice used to make sushi.
"California Rice" is soft; "Sweet
Rice", often called "pearl" rice for
its round shape, is extra sticky and
is excellent for making rice
pudding.
Brown Rice
Brown rice is often considered the
most healthy variety. It has bran
layers on the rice grains and
contains more B-complex
vitamins, iron, calcium, and fiber
than polished (white) rice. The
most popular brown rice is long
grain and has a chewy texture.
Wild Rice
Wild Rice comes in many delicious
varieties and mixes. Often it is
mixed with long grain rice for its
firmer texture and rich brown to
black color. Wild rice makes
wonderful stuffing for poultry when
cooked with broth and mixed with
your favorite dried fruits.
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TROUBLESHOOTING
Because rice varieties may vary in their make-up, results may
differ. Below are some troubleshooting tips to help you achieve the
desired consistency.
PROBLEM SOLUTION
Rice is too dry/hard
after cooking.
Rice is too moist/soggy
after cooking.
If your rice is dry or hard/chewy when the rice
cooker switches to WARM mode, additional
water and cooking time will soften the rice.
Depending on how dry your rice is, add ½ to
1 cup of water and stir through. Close the lid
and press the “COOK” button. When rice
cooker switches to warm mode, open the lid
and stir the rice to check the consistency.
Repeat as necessary until rice is soft and
moist.
If your rice is still too wet or soggy when the
rice cooker switches to warm mode, use the
rice paddle to stir the rice. This will redistribute
the bottom (moistest) part of the rice as well
as release excess moisture. Close the lid and
allow to remain on warm mode for 10-30
minutes as needed, opening the lid and
stirring periodically to release excess moisture.
13
LIMITED WARRANTY
Aroma Housewares Company warrants this product free from defects in
material and workmanship for one year from provable date of purchase
in the continental United States.
Within this warranty period, Aroma Housewares Company will repair or
replace, at its option, defective parts at no charge, provided the
product is returned, freight prepaid with proof of purchase and U.S.
$13.00 for shipping and handling charges payable to Aroma Housewares
Company. Before returning an item, please call the toll free number
below for a return authorization number. Allow 2-4 weeks for return
shipping.
This warranty does not cover improper installation, misuse, abuse or
neglect on the part of the owner. Warranty is also invalid in any case
that the product is taken apart or serviced by an unauthorized service
station.
This warranty gives you specific legal rights and which may vary from
state to state and does not cover areas outside the United States.
AROMA HOUSEWARES COMPANY
6469 Flanders Drive
San Diego, California 92121
1-800-276-6286
M-F, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM, Pacific Time
Website: www.aromaco.com
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