This article explores the capabilities of the Zojirushi NP-NWC10 pressure induction heating rice cooker through the lens of a Michelin-star chef's Donabe Gohan recipe. We delve into the cooker's features, highlighting its sleek design, advanced induction heating technology for even cooking, and versatile settings that extend beyond basic rice preparation. The review focuses not just on the cooker's performance but also on the meticulous process of creating a perfect Donabe Gohan dish, showcasing the synergy between high-quality equipment and expert culinary techniques.The chef's recipe, a testament to the rice cooker's potential, utilizes premium Satsuki rice and incorporates dashi, corn, and ginger for an umami-rich flavor profile. Paired with perfectly grilled Oreo King salmon, seasoned simply yet expertly, the dish is elevated by a carefully curated selection of garnishes, balancing textures and tastes. The article ultimately assesses whether the Zojirushi rice cooker justifies its price point, considering its performance, versatility, and ability to deliver exceptional results for serious home cooks.
Pros And Cons
- Pressure induction heating results in even cooking
- Many different settings (umami, quick mix, sushi rice, jasmine, porridge, brown rice, GABA brown rice, steel-cut oatmeal)
Read more: Top 6 Donabe Steamer Inserts: A Buyer's Guide
Unboxing the Zojirushi Rice Cooker
The Zojirushi NP-NWC10 is a 5.5-cup capacity pressure induction heating rice cooker and warmer. Its sleek design immediately caught my eye. The exterior is attractive and feels high-quality.
Unlike traditional rice cookers with a single heating element, this model boasts a complete induction plate for even cooking. This feature promises consistent results, a crucial aspect for perfectly cooked rice.
The control panel is intuitive with various settings beyond just cooking rice, including umami, quick mix, sushi rice, and porridge. This versatility makes it adaptable for diverse culinary needs.
Preparing the Donabe Gohan
Donabe Gohan holds sentimental value, evoking memories of family meals. The chef emphasizes the importance of high-quality rice, using Satsuki rice, a type of short-grain rice. Proper preparation is key to achieving perfect fluffy rice.
The rice is washed repeatedly until the water runs clear, then soaked for 20 minutes before cooking. This soaking process enhances fluffiness and even cooking. The rice is then drained completely before adding to the cooker.
Dashi, a seasoned broth, is added to the rice along with corn (in season) and julienned ginger. The dashi provides umami and enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.
Grilling the Salmon
Oreo King salmon, dry-aged for optimal flavor, is prepared for grilling. The skin is carefully removed to ensure even cooking and to preserve the belly portion for another dish. The chef uses three skewers to gently hold and grill the salmon.
The salmon is seasoned simply with kosher salt before grilling over binchotan charcoal at high heat (800-1000 degrees). A fan is used to control the flames and maintain even heat distribution. The chef uses a sake-based mixture to baste the salmon during grilling.
The salmon’s doneness is checked using a cake tester, ensuring it's cooked through but remains juicy and tender. The internal temperature should be around 108-110 degrees Fahrenheit.
Plating and Final Touches
The cooked rice is fluffy and flavorful thanks to the Zojirushi rice cooker and the careful preparation techniques. The chef garnishes the rice with grated ginger, enhancing the overall taste.
Additional toppings include pico de gallo, hichuki seaweed, pickled mustard greens, and rakkyo. These add various textures, acidity, and crunch, creating a complex yet balanced flavor profile.
The dish is finished with a generous garnish of asatsugi (thinly sliced Japanese scallions) for a touch of freshness and visual appeal.
Conclusion: Is the Zojirushi Rice Cooker Worth It?
The Zojirushi NP-NWC10 pressure induction heating rice cooker delivers on its promise of perfectly cooked rice. Its versatility and ease of use make it a valuable addition to any kitchen, especially for those who appreciate quality rice.
While the price point might be higher than some other rice cookers, the even cooking, numerous settings, and overall performance justify the investment for serious home cooks. The numerous settings allow for culinary experimentation and catering to different tastes.
The ability to cook diverse grains and the superior rice quality achievable make this rice cooker a worthwhile purchase for those seeking excellence in rice preparation. The chef’s Donabe Gohan recipe further showcases the cooker's potential.