Frequently Asked Questions

This is a question a couple of people asked.  As you can see from the product description and instruction manual the 2 machines are basically the same, the cooking capacity and functions mean both will cook great rice and other dishes. The only functional difference is that the CJL-MPRC333 model has the option to switch the rice cooker directly to "keep warm".

The biggest difference is the style - the sizes are very similar, so perhaps the way to answer this question is to consider which style/shape you prefer and which will look the most breathtaking in your kitchen.

Thats ok, we won't hold this against you.  We have sourced these rice cookers from a specialist micro-computer rice cooker manufacturer and have had them branded as "Cook Japan".  Our factory also makes rice cookers for several leading household brands, so our machines are the same the only difference is the brand that is applied to the finished product.  This is called "OEM" (original equipment manufacturer) whereby company X makes a products, which is then sold to companies Y and Z who use their own branding.  For more information, please follow this link to learn more about Cook Japan rice cookers.

Most of the Japanese brands do not make rice cookers for the EU market due to regulations concerning requirment on manufacturing processes and materials used compared to Asia and North America.  This is why it is difficult to find rice cookers in UK and elsewhere in Europe and so we have sourced these appliances from a manufacturer whose machines meet these regulations, for more information follow the link to Cook Japan rice cookers.

The 8-cup rice cookers will cook between 2-cups and 8-cups of rice, so will make perfect rice for 2-8 people (depending on individual appetites).  If you like brown rice you will need to use a far higher ratio of rice to water, so a larger machine like the 8-cup will give you more scope to cook a sufficient amount of rice. 

The Cook Japan rice cookers also have other excellent cooking functionality, although you may be unsure about an 8-cup machine this additional size means its great for cooking soup, porridge and using as a slow cooker to make dishes like chilli-con-carne or a stew where again you need a larger capacity cooking bowl.  The additional size therefore gives you much more flexibility in what you cook. We have a 5-cup and an 8-cup in our kitchen - we find the 5-cup is too small if you want to make other dishes and use the full range of functionality from your rice cooker.

Don't be afraid to experiment a little, "perfect rice" can be quite a subjective view...however we hope this link will help you find the best way to use your rice cooker to make perfect rice everytime: How to Cook Rice

In Japan fuzzy logic rice cookers with a broad cooking functionality are a typical site in any kitchen, but it can be very hard to find a fuzzy logic rice cooker in the UK.  These machines act as a pressure cooking which helps make the rice softer and so easier to digest. By using computer controlled technology, commonly referred to as micom fuzzy logic, the rice cooker is able to make adjustments to both temperature and cooking time to cook perfect rice.

In essence, fuzzy logic programs machines to think in a more "human way" taking a more practical approach and using ambient factors to alter and adapt the cooking process, for example if the rice is too hot and heating too quickly the the heating element will be turned down slightly to balance this. With fuzzy logic the cooking process is improved in 3 key ways:

1. The temperature sensor control is more accurate and can therefore allow for fine adjustments to the cooking temperature

2. The heat distribution and condcution around the entire bowl produces more evenly cooked food

3. The computer can instantly strenghten or weaken the heat ensuring a controlled cooking process

The pattern means that food is less likely to stick than it would with a convential smooth-based pan.  It also makes the bowl easier to clean.  Likewise, the dimpled effect on the spatula that comes with the rice cooker means sticky rice does not stick when you serve.

Don't worry, your rice cooker is really easy to clean and look after.

Don't immerse it in water or place it under a tap; the outer body of the rice cooker can be easily cleaned with a damp cloth that will easily remove any food residue.  To protect the non-stick coating of the cooking bowl do not use abrasive cleaning agents, scourers, metal utensils or use it as a bowl to clean other items.  A soft cloth and hot soapy water are sufficient to clean the cooking bowl, if needed leave the bowl to soak in hot soapy water for a few minutes before cleaning.

For more information on cleaning and guidance on how to use the rice cooker, please see the instruction manual.

Rice cookers are very versatile appliances, your Cook Japan rice cooker has a range of functions that allow it to be used as a slow cooker, to make porridge, soup and congee, and even to braise food - oh, and it also comes with a steamer attachment as well. This range of cooking options, plus the 24-hour timer means you can cook a vast range of dishes perfect for breakfast, lunch or dinner.

We have our own recipe section that will hopefully give you some ideas, but don't take our word for it...instead, get hold of a copy of the Rice Cooker bible: The Ultimate Rice Cooker Cookbook that has 250 fabulous recipes.  You can buy this from the Cook Japan Bookshop along with a whole range of other excellent cookbooks.