For a grain that is a staple in so many different cultures, rice is surprisingly difficult to cook. Most stove burners don’t have a setting that’s low enough to steam it properly without the pot boiling over, or scorching it. A perfectly-cooked pot of rice needs constant vigilance. That's why most people who cook rice with any regularity usually own a dedicated rice cooker. The Zojirushi NL-BAC05 is as perfect a type of this kitchen appliance as any I’ve ever used.

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