Aroma Housewares 20-Cup Digital Multicooker Review: Kitchen Game Changer?
I’ve gone through my fair share of rice cookers over the years, and honestly, most have been disappointing one-trick ponies. So when I decided to try the Aroma Housewares 20-Cup Digital Multicooker, I was a bit skeptical. Could this moderately priced appliance really handle everything from perfect rice to slow-cooked stews? After several weeks of putting it through its paces in my kitchen, I think I’ve found my answer – and it might surprise you too.
Sleek Kitchen Companion
The first thing that struck me about this multicooker was its surprisingly compact design given its 20-cup capacity. It has this clean, somewhat minimalist stainless steel exterior that blends well with practically any kitchen aesthetic. The control panel is straightforward yet modern with a digital display that’s easy to read – something I truly appreciate when I’m rushing around trying to get dinner ready. The cooker feels sturdy too, not like some flimsy appliances that make you question if they’ll survive past the warranty period. There’s something reassuring about how solid the lid closes and how responsive the buttons are – little details that perhaps matter more than we realize in daily use.
- 15 MODES: This digital rice cooker is pre-programmed for white rice, brown rice, multi-grains, and so much more. Sauté-Then-Simmer, steam, reheat, and slow cook with a touch.
- SMART DIGITAL: Select a cooking mode on the streamlined, easy-to-read display or set a delay timer. The countdown predicts when dinner is done, then it switches to ‘warm.’
- BONUS STEAMER: Stack the BPA-free basket inside the lid to steam meat, veggies, or a side dish while rice cooks below. These smart steam settings are fast and efficient.
- EASY TO CLEAN: The non-stick rice cooker pot is bonded for everyday durability and quick cleanup. Even silky risotto, creamy oatmeal, and steamed cake won’t stick!
- FAMILY SIZE: Pour up to 10 cups of rice inside and serve 20 cups when it’s done. The large rice cooker also doubles as a 5-quart slow cooker, egg steamer, and soup warmer.
Performance That Impresses
I’ve been genuinely surprised by how versatile this multicooker is. The 20-cup capacity is perfect for my family gatherings – I recently made Spanish rice for eight people and still had leftovers. What impressed me most was how it handled different types of rice. Jasmine, basmati, brown rice – all came out with that perfect texture that’s so hard to achieve on a stovetop.
The slow cooker function might actually be my favorite feature though. I tossed in ingredients for a chicken curry one morning, set it, and came home to a perfectly cooked meal. No stirring, no monitoring, no worries about burning. The steam tray is another win – being able to steam vegetables while simultaneously cooking rice below is such a time-saver.
There’s also a delay timer that I was initially skeptical about but now use constantly. Setting everything up before leaving for work and coming home to freshly cooked rice? Game changer, seriously. The keep-warm function works well too, maintaining temperature without drying things out the way my old cooker did.
What’s Under The Hood
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 20-Cup (Cooked) / 10-Cup (Uncooked) |
| Functions | Rice Cooking, Slow Cooking, Steaming, Keep Warm |
| Programs | White Rice, Brown Rice, Quick Rice, Steam, Slow Cook |
| Material | Stainless Steel Exterior, Non-stick Inner Pot |
| Power | 120V/60Hz 500W |
| Timer | 15-hour Delay Timer |
| Dimensions | Approximately 13.9 x 10.8 x 11.2 inches |
| Accessories | Steam Tray, Rice Measuring Cup, Serving Spatula |
| Warranty | Limited Warranty |
The Good and The Not-So-Good
Pros:
- Exceptional cooking results for multiple rice varieties
- Generous 20-cup capacity perfect for families or meal prep
- Versatile functions beyond just rice cooking
- Delay timer works reliably for planning ahead
- Surprisingly easy to clean for a kitchen appliance
- Compact footprint considering its capacity
- Solid build quality suggests good durability
Cons:
- The beep when cooking completes is quite loud and can’t be adjusted
- Steam valve sometimes releases more condensation than expected
- Control panel buttons occasionally need a firm press to register
- Inner pot markings could be more visible for quick measuring
- User manual lacks detailed recipes or cooking time guidelines
What Others Are Saying
After browsing through the Amazon reviews, I found most users share my positive experience. The multicooker currently maintains a solid rating, with most customers praising its versatility and cooking performance.
One reviewer noted: “This has been a lifesaver for our busy family. Makes perfect rice every time and the slow cooker function is great for those days when I don’t have time to cook. Best kitchen purchase I’ve made this year!”
Another customer mentioned: “I was hesitant about the size but it’s perfect for meal prepping. I make a big batch of rice or quinoa on Sunday and portion it out for the week. The non-stick inner pot makes cleanup incredibly easy too.”
Some critical reviews mentioned issues with longevity, with a few users reporting that their units stopped working after about a year of use. Others noted that the cooking times for brown rice were longer than expected. These seem to be minority experiences, however, as most long-term users report reliable performance.
Who Should Buy This Multicooker?
For beginners: This multicooker is exceptionally beginner-friendly. The clearly labeled buttons and straightforward functions make it nearly foolproof. If you’re just starting to explore home cooking or have been intimidated by rice preparation in the past, this appliance removes most of the guesswork.
For intermediate users: You’ll appreciate the versatility here. The multiple functions let you experiment with different recipes and techniques without investing in several separate appliances. The capacity also makes it suitable for meal prep or family cooking.
For advanced users: While you might want more precise temperature controls or specialized functions for certain cuisines, this multicooker still offers solid performance as a workhorse appliance. The convenience factor remains high even for experienced cooks, though you might occasionally bump against its limitations if you’re used to more specialized equipment.
You Might Also Like
If you’re still exploring options in the multicooker category, these highly-rated alternatives might interest you as well.
Ready to Simplify Your Cooking?
Sometimes the best kitchen investments aren’t the fanciest gadgets, but the reliable workhorses that make everyday cooking easier. I think the Aroma Housewares 20-Cup Digital Multicooker falls firmly into that category – it’s versatile enough to earn its counter space while delivering consistently good results. If you’re looking to streamline meal preparation without sacrificing quality, this might be exactly what your kitchen needs.
- 15 MODES: This digital rice cooker is pre-programmed for white rice, brown rice, multi-grains, and so much more. Sauté-Then-Simmer, steam, reheat, and slow cook with a touch.
- SMART DIGITAL: Select a cooking mode on the streamlined, easy-to-read display or set a delay timer. The countdown predicts when dinner is done, then it switches to ‘warm.’
- BONUS STEAMER: Stack the BPA-free basket inside the lid to steam meat, veggies, or a side dish while rice cooks below. These smart steam settings are fast and efficient.
- EASY TO CLEAN: The non-stick rice cooker pot is bonded for everyday durability and quick cleanup. Even silky risotto, creamy oatmeal, and steamed cake won’t stick!
- FAMILY SIZE: Pour up to 10 cups of rice inside and serve 20 cups when it’s done. The large rice cooker also doubles as a 5-quart slow cooker, egg steamer, and soup warmer.
Last update on 2025-06-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
