Hamilton Beach 37536 Rice Cooker Reviews – A Comprehensive Evaluation of Performance and Features

Short Analyze

Here’s the comparison for the Hamilton Beach models you’re interested in:

Why Choose Hamilton Beach 37536 Rice Cooker?

Choosing the Hamilton Beach 37536 Rice Cooker can be a wise decision for several reasons, especially for those who value convenience, versatility, and efficiency in the kitchen. Here’s why it might be a good fit:

Convenience

• Ease of Use: The digital interface offers straightforward selections for cooking various types of rice and meals, making it accessible even to those who are not very tech-savvy or are new to cooking.
• Automatic Cooking Cycles: It automatically adjusts temperature and cooking times based on the selected function, allowing for a set-it-and-forget-it approach to cooking rice, grains, and more.
• Keep Warm Function: Automatically switches to a warm setting after cooking is complete, ensuring that your food remains at an ideal temperature until you’re ready to serve.

Versatility

• Multiple Cooking Options: Beyond rice, this cooker handles whole grains, steaming vegetables and seafood, and even making hot cereals, making it a multipurpose tool that can replace several appliances in your kitchen.
• Large Capacity: Suitable for both small and large families, as it can cook 10 cups of uncooked rice yielding 20 cups cooked. It’s also great for entertaining or meal prepping for the week.

Efficiency

• Saves Time: The delayed start feature allows you to plan meals in advance, contributing to better time management in the kitchen.
• One-Pot Cooking: You can cook your side dish while simultaneously steaming your main, reducing the number of pots and pans needed and therefore the amount of cleanup.

Quality and Reliability

• Consistent Results: Hamilton Beach appliances are known for their reliability and ability to produce consistent results, which means less guesswork and more perfectly cooked meals.
• Easy Cleanup: The non-stick pot and dishwasher-safe parts make cleanup a breeze, saving you time and effort after meals.

Cost-Effectiveness

• Affordable: Offers a great balance between price and features, providing good value for those who want the functionality of a more expensive rice cooker without the hefty price tag.

Space Saving

• Although it has a large capacity, its design is relatively compact for its functionality, helping to minimize the countertop space it occupies relative to its versatility.

When choosing a rice cooker, it’s important to consider your specific needs, preferences, and kitchen habits. The Hamilton Beach 37536 stands out for its blend of functionality, ease of use, and efficiency, making it a strong contender for those who cook rice regularly and appreciate the convenience of a multifunctional appliance.

Where to Buy the Hamilton Beach 37536 Rice Cooker

To purchase the Hamilton Beach 37536 Rice Cooker, you have several options available, ranging from online marketplaces to physical retail stores. Here’s where you can look:

Online Retailers

• Amazon: A vast selection with the potential for quick shipping, customer reviews, and often competitive pricing.
• Walmart: Offers both online purchasing options with home delivery or in-store pickup.
• Hamilton Beach’s Official Website: Buying directly from the manufacturer can ensure you get a genuine product and direct customer support.

Big Box Stores

• Best Buy: Known for electronics, they also carry a range of kitchen appliances, including rice cookers.
• Target: Offers a variety of kitchen appliances both in their physical stores and online.

Home Goods Stores

• Bed Bath & Beyond: Known for their extensive kitchenware section, available both in-store and online.
• Kohl’s: Carries a range of household appliances, including items from Hamilton Beach.
• Specialty Kitchen Stores
• Local or chain specialty stores that focus on kitchen gadgets and appliances might also carry the Hamilton Beach 37536 or be able to order it for you.

Tips for Purchasing

• Price Comparison: Before buying, compare prices across different platforms. Sometimes there are significant price differences or ongoing sales.
• Check Reviews: Especially when buying online, look at customer reviews on multiple platforms to gauge the reliability and performance of the rice cooker.
• Warranty and Return Policy: Verify the warranty period and return policy, especially when purchasing online, to ensure you’re covered in case the product doesn’t meet your expectations or has issues.
• Shipping Costs and Times: Consider shipping costs and delivery times, which can vary significantly between retailers.

Given the popularity of online shopping, checking availability and prices on major platforms like Amazon and Walmart can give you a good starting point, along with the convenience of comparing products and reading customer reviews.

Features and Benefits

The Hamilton Beach Digital Simplicity Rice Cooker and Steamer, model 37536, is designed to bring convenience and versatility to the kitchen. Here are its key features and benefits, highlighting why it might be a valuable addition to your cooking appliances:

Features

• Capacity: Can cook 10 cups of uncooked rice, yielding up to 20 cups of cooked rice, making it ideal for both small and large meals.
• Digital Controls: Features an easy-to-use digital panel that allows you to select cooking functions for white rice, whole grains, and steaming, along with a delayed start and a keep-warm option.
• Versatility: Besides rice, it’s equipped to cook whole grains, steam vegetables and seafood, and prepare hot breakfast cereals, offering a range of meal options.
• Delayed Start Time: Allows you to plan meals in advance by setting the cooker to start cooking at a later time, ensuring meals are ready when needed.
• Automatic Keep Warm: Automatically shifts to keep warm mode after cooking is complete, keeping your food at the perfect temperature until you’re ready to eat.
• Steaming Tray Included: Comes with a steaming basket that fits on top of the rice, allowing you to steam foods while simultaneously cooking rice below, maximizing efficiency and preserving nutrients.
• Non-Stick Pot: The inner cooking pot is non-stick, making for easy food release and quick cleanup.
• Accessories: Includes a rice paddle and measuring cup, ensuring you have the necessary tools for perfect rice cooking.

Benefits

• Convenience: The digital simplicity and automated functions make cooking easier, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time with your family or guests.
• Healthy Cooking Options: The steaming capability enables you to prepare a variety of healthy meals, from steamed vegetables to fish, without the need for additional pots or pans.
• Meal Planning Made Easy: With the delay start feature, you can load the cooker in the morning and come home to a freshly prepared meal, perfect for busy lifestyles.
• Efficiency: Cooking and steaming simultaneously with one device not only saves time but also reduces the need for multiple pots and pans, making cleanup quicker.
• Versatile and Large Capacity: Whether you’re cooking for a couple or a large family, this cooker can handle meals of all sizes. Its ability to cook more than just rice means you can use it for a wide range of recipes, adding variety to your diet.
• Durability and Easy Maintenance: The quality construction of Hamilton Beach products ensures longevity, and the non-stick pot and dishwasher-safe parts make maintenance a breeze.

Overall, the Hamilton Beach Digital Simplicity 37536 Rice Cooker and Steamer offers a blend of functionality, ease of use, and efficient cooking, making it a valuable tool for anyone looking to enhance their meal preparation experience.

Parts and Accessories

The Hamilton Beach Digital Simplicity 10-Cups Uncooked resulting in 20-Cups (Cooked) Rice Cooker and Steamer, Silver (37536), comes equipped with several key parts and accessories that enhance its functionality and ease of use. Here’s a breakdown of the main components and accessories you would typically find with this model:

Main Parts

• Main Unit/Body: The exterior housing that contains the heating element, electronic controls, and display.
• Inner Cooking Pot: A removable, non-stick pot where the rice and water are placed for cooking. It’s designed to conduct heat efficiently and evenly.
• Lid: Depending on the model, the lid can be either hinged to the main body or completely removable. It’s designed to seal in steam and moisture during cooking and warming cycles.

Accessories

• Steaming Basket: A plastic or metal basket that allows you to steam vegetables, fish, and more above the rice. It sits inside the cooker, on top of the cooking pot.
• Rice Paddle: A plastic utensil used for stirring and serving rice. Its design helps to prevent damage to the non-stick surface of the cooking pot.
• Measuring Cup: This cup is specifically calibrated for measuring rice and water ratios. It may differ in size from standard U.S. measuring cups, emphasizing the importance of using it for precise measurements.
• Condensation Collector: Some models include a small container attached to the outer part of the rice cooker, designed to collect excess steam and water droplets that condense during the cooking process.
• Power Cord: Standard power cord for connecting the rice cooker to an electrical outlet. The length and type might vary depending on the model and region.

Optional Accessories (May vary by package or model)

• Recipe Booklet: Some packages may include a booklet with recipes and cooking tips specifically designed for use with the rice cooker.
• Cleaning Brush: A small brush for cleaning the nooks and crannies of the rice cooker, ensuring it remains in good condition.

Key Features

• Digital Controls: For selecting various cooking functions such as cooking rice, steaming, or preparing whole grains, and for setting the delay start and keep-warm functions.
• Delay Start Timer: Allows you to program the cooking process to start at a later time.
• Automatic Keep Warm: Automatically switches to a low heat setting after cooking is completed, keeping your food at an ideal temperature for serving.

The Hamilton Beach Digital Simplicity Rice Cooker and Steamer is designed for ease of use, versatility, and efficiency in the kitchen. Its parts and accessories play a crucial role in its functionality, enabling it to serve as more than just a rice cooker. Whether you’re cooking rice, steaming vegetables, or making a complete meal, this appliance has been designed to simplify your cooking process.

Application

The Hamilton Beach Digital Simplicity 10-Cups Uncooked resulting in 20-Cups (Cooked) Rice Cooker and Steamer, model 37536, is a versatile kitchen appliance that extends beyond just cooking rice. Its range of features and accessories makes it suitable for a variety of culinary applications. Here’s how you can use it to enhance your cooking:

Cooking Different Types of Rice

• White Rice: Utilizes a standard cooking cycle for fluffy white rice.
• Brown Rice: Has a specific setting for brown rice that adjusts for its longer cooking time and requirement for more water, ensuring perfectly cooked grains.

Cooking Whole Grains

• The appliance isn’t limited to rice; it can also cook a variety of whole grains such as quinoa, barley, farro, and more. The cooking principles are similar, but water ratios and cooking times may vary.

Steaming Vegetables and Seafood

• Steaming Basket: Allows you to steam vegetables, fish, and shellfish while cooking rice or grains below, maximizing the appliance’s use and reducing cooking time and cleanup. This method retains the nutritional value and flavor of the steamed items.
• Healthy Meals: Steaming is a healthy cooking method that doesn’t require oil and maintains the integrity of ingredients.

Making Soups and Stews

• The rice cooker can be used to prepare broths, soups, and stews. The ‘keep warm’ function is particularly useful for keeping soups at the right serving temperature.

Preparing Breakfast Cereals

• Hot Cereals: You can make oatmeal or other hot breakfast cereals, taking advantage of the delay start timer to have breakfast ready when you wake up.

Delay Start Feature

• This feature is particularly useful for meal planning. You can set the rice cooker in the morning, and it will start cooking so that your meal is ready when you get home, perfect for busy lifestyles.

Keeping Food Warm

• After cooking, the appliance automatically switches to a ‘keep warm’ mode, which keeps the rice or meal at an optimal temperature for serving without overcooking it.

Simplified Cooking Process

• The digital controls and automatic settings reduce the need for constant supervision, making the cooking process easier and freeing up time to focus on other tasks.

The Hamilton Beach 37536 Rice Cooker and Steamer simplifies meal preparation, offering a convenient solution for cooking a wide range of dishes. Its multifunctional capabilities make it a valuable addition to any kitchen, especially for those who appreciate the convenience of preparing healthy meals with minimal effort.

Basic Operation

Operating the Hamilton Beach 37536 Rice Cooker is straightforward, making it easy for anyone to cook perfect rice and more. Here’s a basic guide to get you started:

Preparing to Cook

• Measure Rice and Water: Use the included measuring cup to measure the rice, then rinse it under cold water until the water runs clear. For water, follow the cooker’s guidelines or the rice packaging instructions for the correct amount. Different types of rice require different water ratios.
• Add Rice and Water to the Pot: Place the rinsed rice in the cooking pot, then add the corresponding amount of water. You can also add seasonings or oil/butter as desired.
• Place the Pot in the Cooker: Ensure the pot is properly seated inside the rice cooker.
• Select the Cooking Program: Use the digital controls to select the appropriate cooking setting based on the type of rice or dish you’re preparing. The rice cooker typically has settings for white rice, whole grains, and a steaming option.

Cooking

• Start the Cooking Process: Press the start button to begin cooking. The rice cooker will automatically adjust the cooking time and temperature based on the selected program.
• Steaming Food (Optional): If you want to steam vegetables or proteins at the same time, place them in the steaming basket provided with the rice cooker. Insert the basket over the rice, and select the appropriate cooking setting. The steam from the rice will cook the items in the basket.

After Cooking

• Automatic Keep Warm: Once the cooking cycle is complete, the rice cooker will automatically switch to a “keep warm” mode, keeping the rice at an ideal serving temperature without overcooking it.
• Serving: Use the provided rice paddle to fluff and serve the rice. This paddle is designed to prevent scratching the non-stick surface of the cooking pot.

Cleanup

• Cool Down: Allow the rice cooker and its components to cool down before cleaning.
• Clean the Pot and Accessories: The cooking pot and steaming basket are usually dishwasher safe, but check your model’s instructions to be sure. Otherwise, wash them with warm soapy water.
• Wipe Down the Rice Cooker: Use a damp cloth to clean the exterior and the control panel of the rice cooker.
• Dry and Store: Ensure all parts are dry before reassembling and storing the rice cooker.

Tips for Use

• For best results, follow the specific instructions provided in the user manual regarding water ratios and cooking times, as they can vary depending on the rice type.
• Experiment with the water ratios and cooking times to find the perfect consistency for your taste, especially if you venture beyond white rice.
• Use the delay start feature for added convenience, planning your meals to be ready exactly when you want them.

By following these basic operations and tips, you can enjoy perfectly cooked rice and a variety of other dishes with minimal effort.

Practical Cleaning Advice

Cleaning the Hamilton Beach 37536 Rice Cooker properly after each use will not only ensure its longevity but also maintain its performance. Here are some practical tips for cleaning this appliance:

Before Cleaning

• Cool Down: Always allow the rice cooker to cool completely before cleaning. Attempting to clean it while it’s still hot can cause injury or damage to the appliance.

Cleaning the Removable Parts

• Inner Cooking Pot: Remove the pot from the rice cooker. If rice is stuck to the bottom, soak it in warm, soapy water for a few minutes to loosen it. Use a soft sponge or cloth to clean the pot to avoid scratching the non-stick surface. Most inner pots are dishwasher safe, but check the manual to be sure.
• Steaming Basket: If you’ve used the steaming basket, empty any remaining water and food particles. Like the cooking pot, it can be soaked in soapy water and gently scrubbed with a sponge. It’s typically dishwasher safe as well.
• Rice Paddle and Measuring Cup: Wash these accessories in warm, soapy water or place them in the dishwasher if they are dishwasher safe.

Cleaning the Rice Cooker Body and Lid

• Exterior: Wipe the exterior of the rice cooker with a damp cloth. If there are spots or stains, you can use a mild detergent. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or pads that could scratch the surface.
• Lid: If the lid is detachable, remove it and wash it separately with warm, soapy water. If it’s not detachable, wipe it clean with a damp cloth. Be careful around any electrical components or the heating element.
• Condensation Collector: Some models have a removable condensation collector at the back or side. Empty it and wash it with soapy water, then dry before reattaching.

Cleaning the Interior

• Heating Plate: The heating plate where the cooking pot sits should be checked for any spilled grains of rice or residue. Use a damp cloth to clean it gently. Ensure it’s dry before using the rice cooker again.
• Interior Casing: Wipe the inside casing with a slightly damp cloth to remove any residue or steam condensation. Be cautious not to let water drip into the cooker’s electrical components.

After Cleaning

• Air Dry: Allow all parts to air dry completely before reassembling. This prevents mold or mildew growth and avoids any electrical issues.
• Reassemble: Once all parts are dry, reassemble the rice cooker for storage. This keeps dust out and ensures it’s ready for the next use.

Tips for Maintenance

• Regular Cleaning: Clean your rice cooker after every use to prevent buildup and ensure it remains sanitary for cooking.
• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Do not use harsh or abrasive cleaners on any part of the rice cooker, as these can damage the non-stick surfaces and the exterior finish.
• Check for Wear: Regularly inspect the cord, plug, and non-stick surfaces for wear or damage. If any part is damaged, consult the manufacturer for replacement parts or advice.

By following these practical cleaning and maintenance tips, your Hamilton Beach 37536 Rice Cooker can continue to provide excellent service for many meals to come.

Troubleshooting with Common Problem and Solution

Here’s a troubleshooting guide for common problems encountered with the Hamilton Beach 37536 Rice Cooker:

Problem: Rice is undercooked or overcooked.

Solution:

• Ensure that you are using the correct ratio of rice to water. Refer to the user manual for recommended ratios.
• Make sure the rice cooker is properly plugged in and turned on.
• Check if the cooking pot is properly placed and the lid is securely closed during cooking.
• If rice is consistently undercooked, try adding a bit more water and adjusting the cooking time.
• If rice is consistently overcooked, try using less water and adjusting the cooking time accordingly.

Problem: Rice cooker is not turning on.

Solution:

• Check if the rice cooker is properly plugged into a functioning power outlet.
• Make sure the power cord is not damaged or frayed.
• Ensure that the cooking pot is properly inserted into the rice cooker and the lid is securely closed.
• Try pressing the power button again to ensure it is engaged properly.

Problem: Rice cooker is emitting a burning smell during cooking.

Solution:

• Turn off the rice cooker immediately and unplug it from the power source.
• Allow the rice cooker to cool down completely before inspecting it.
• Check for any signs of burnt food stuck to the heating plate or inside the cooker. Clean it thoroughly if necessary.
• Ensure that the cooking pot is not damaged or burnt. Replace it if needed.
• If the burning smell persists, contact Hamilton Beach customer support for further assistance.

Problem: Rice cooker is leaking water during cooking.

Solution:

• Check if the cooking pot is properly inserted into the rice cooker and the lid is securely closed.
• Inspect the rubber gasket or sealing ring around the lid for any damage or misalignment. Replace it if necessary.
• Ensure that the steam vent is not blocked by food particles or debris. Clean it thoroughly if needed.
• If the leakage persists, contact Hamilton Beach customer support for further assistance.

If these troubleshooting steps do not resolve the issue, it’s recommended to contact Hamilton Beach customer support for further assistance or to inquire about warranty coverage

How the Hamilton Beach 37536 Rice Cooker Is Different

The Hamilton Beach 37536 Rice Cooker stands out for several reasons, distinguishing itself from other rice cookers in the market. Here are some key aspects where it differs or excels:

Versatility

• Multi-Functional Cooking: Beyond just cooking rice, this model is designed for versatility, including options for steaming vegetables and protein, cooking whole grains, and even making breakfast cereals. This multi-functionality makes it a more comprehensive kitchen tool compared to standard rice cookers that only cook rice.

Capacity

• Large Cooking Capacity: It can cook 10 cups of uncooked rice, yielding 20 cups of cooked rice, which is ideal for families, parties, or meal prep for the week. Its capacity is on the higher end for home rice cookers, making it suitable for larger households or gatherings.

Convenience Features

• Digital Simplicity: The digital controls and settings, including a delay start timer and an automatic keep-warm feature, provide convenience and ease of use. These features allow for more precise control over cooking times and temperatures, catering to busy lifestyles by allowing meals to be planned and prepared ahead of time.
• Ease of Cleaning: The non-stick cooking pot and the inclusion of dishwasher-safe parts like the steaming basket, rice paddle, and measuring cup make cleanup easier and more convenient after cooking.

Design and Construction

• Compact Design: Despite its large capacity, the design is relatively compact, allowing for easier storage in kitchens with limited space. Its sleek, silver exterior also makes it an attractive appliance to leave out on the counter.
• Build Quality: Hamilton Beach is known for its durable and reliable appliances. The construction of the 37536 model, with attention to both functionality and aesthetics, highlights this commitment to quality.

Unique Cooking Features

• Adjustable Cooking Options: It offers tailored settings for different types of rice and grains, ensuring optimal cooking conditions for a variety of dishes, which not all rice cookers provide. This specificity in cooking settings can lead to better-tasting and more consistently cooked meals.
• Simultaneous Steaming: The ability to steam food while rice cooks below is a notable feature that adds to the cooker’s efficiency, allowing for the preparation of a complete meal using one appliance. This simultaneous cooking feature is particularly beneficial for healthy cooking and saving time.

User-Friendly Interface

• Digital Display and Controls: The intuitive digital interface makes selecting cooking modes and adjusting settings simple, appealing to both tech-savvy users and those who prefer straightforward appliances.

When comparing the Hamilton Beach 37536 Rice Cooker to others on the market, these features highlight its advantages in terms of capacity, functionality, convenience, and design. It’s well-suited for those who need a versatile, efficient, and easy-to-use appliance for cooking a wide range of dishes beyond just rice.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)

Let’s delve into some expertise-level questions and answers regarding the Hamilton Beach 37536 Rice Cooker to help you understand its capabilities, maintenance, and unique features further.

By understanding these nuanced aspects of the Hamilton Beach 37536 Rice Cooker, you can fully leverage its capabilities to enhance your cooking repertoire, maintain the appliance effectively, and troubleshoot common issues.

Conclusion

After thoroughly reviewing the Hamilton Beach 37536 Rice Cooker, it’s clear this appliance is more than just a rice cooker. It distinguishes itself with its versatility, large capacity, and user-friendly features, making it a standout choice for both experienced cooks and those new to the kitchen. The ability to cook up to 20 cups of cooked rice, along with the option to steam vegetables and proteins simultaneously, addresses the needs of large families and meal preppers alike. Furthermore, the digital simplicity of its operation, including settings for various types of rice and grains, a delay start timer, and an automatic keep-warm function, ensures that your cooking process is as streamlined as possible.

The inclusion of a steaming basket, a non-stick cooking pot, and dishwasher-safe accessories further emphasizes the convenience and ease of maintenance that Hamilton Beach has integrated into this model. Reviews consistently highlight its reliability, the quality of the food it produces, and the convenience it brings to daily meal preparation.

Given its competitive pricing, considering the range of features and the brand’s reputation for durability, the Hamilton Beach 37536 Rice Cooker presents exceptional value. It’s a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to simplify their cooking routine without sacrificing quality and versatility.

In conclusion, whether you’re looking to upgrade your current rice cooker or integrate a multifunctional cooker into your kitchen arsenal, the Hamilton Beach 37536 comes highly recommended. Its blend of functionality, ease of use, and efficient design makes it an indispensable tool for anyone who enjoys home-cooked meals but is pressed for time. This rice cooker not only meets the expectations set by its specifications but, in many cases, exceeds them, providing a seamless and enjoyable cooking experience.