Review of VitaClay Rice Cookers
Even the most technologically advanced rice cookers
tend to use very similar systems for cooking rice. While the degree of
control can change, as well as the programming, heating options, and
intelligence of the machine, nearly all rice cookers have the same basic
setup, and the differences between them often revolve around options,
cooking systems, and advanced settings.
One of the few appliances that differs from this
type of system is VitaClay. VitaClay is designed to bring out a different,
more “enhanced” flavor in your rice by using a natural clay pot without
chemicals, lead, or unnatural non-stick coatings. The manufacturer claims
that this new cooking method helps the rice keep many of its healthy
nutrients, while reducing many of the harmful agents that may occur inside
of a standard rice cooker.
About the VitaClay Pot
The VitaClay pot is made of “Zisha Clay” (also
known as Yixing Clay). This type of clay is believed to soak in the flavor
of the liquid/food inside of it which helps create a more advanced and
complex flavor. In addition, VitaClay uses a cupped heating system, allowing
the rice to cook more uniformly by heating it on all sides.
The device itself is made with a special lid to
speed up cooking time and reduce the necessary energy. VitaClay also has its
own dual rice cooker/slow cooker product that is essentially two products in
one.
Popular Products
Some of the most well known VitaClay models are:
·
VitaClay Chef Gourmet Rice N Slow
Cooker Pro
·
VitaClay 2-in-1 Rice ‘N Slow-Cooker
·
VitaClay Smart Multicooker
Average Prices
VitaClay’s products are a little more expensive
than most electric rice cookers. The average VitaClay rice cooker of varying
sizes is going to be somewhere between $60 -$120, with most nearing the $100
mark.
Pros of VitaClay Rice Cookers
·
Most models come with a combination
slow cooker, giving the appliance a much better value.
·
VitaClay machines are easy to use.
·
Naturally non-stick without coatings.
·
The cupped heating method helps improve
uniform heating.
·
Comes with transport handles that make
carrying the appliances easier.
·
Contains no chemicals or irritants for
more natural cooking.
·
Useful for both white and brown rice.
Cons of VitaClay Rice Cookers
·
Clay parts are more breakable than
their metal counterparts.
·
If rice does burn or stick to the pots,
cleanup becomes more difficult.
·
Its “keep warm” feature could stand to
be improved.
·
Programming options could stand to be
improved.
Overall Impressions of VitaClay Products
The VitaClay brand of rice cookers are solid
products. They do not use the same chemicals and coatings as most other
mainstream rice cooker brands, and the heating system that surrounds the
rice (rather than sits beneath it) is good for creating more uniformly soft
and tasty rice. The fragility of the pots can be a problem, as well as
cleaning rice that has stuck to its generally non-stick pot, but for those
that are looking to go a more natural route for their appliances, the
VitaClay products hold their own against the competition.
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