Member Reviews
If there is one thing that sits in my cupboard unused, it is my rice cooker. There are some fantastic ideas that can be used in a rice cooker or an instant pot. Personally, I will probably just choose to use my instant post because it is a lot faster and more convenient. However, for those that don't have an alternative, this is definitely an option to make some interesting meals.
The author has given ideas for recipes from hummus to lava cake. As far as the layout goes, it is organized by the type of meal and the recipes are easy to follow. There are also some useful tips and techniques that can be gained from this book, so it is definitely one to check out.
Rice Cooker Revival is a cookbook that can provide you with an alternate way of cooking meals. Some of these recipes can be created just as easily using a traditional stove/oven. However for those that may not have access to a full kitchen this book gives some healthy and interesting ideas.
This is very misleading as I was under the impression it was rice cooker recipes. Nearly every single one uses an instapot. That should be the main heading of the book.
I enjoy reading cookbooks. I have a lot of dietary restrictions, but I can still draw inspiration from the recipes I read, ways I could substitute ingredients, or use the spice combination on ingredients that are safer for me. I realize that a lot of cookbooks won't be perfect fits for me, and that's OK. I think anyone who has to restrict their diet can tell you that they're aware their versions probably don't taste as good as the original, but but they taste good, and some days that is enough.
That's why the section on page 11 (in the advanced digital copy) of It's That Simple/ The Rice Cooker Revival is so jarring. On one hand, I prefer cooks and authors being honest about cases where substitutions won't work. But in this case, the authors Roxanne Wyss and Kathy Moore specify that results will not match theirs if you do not follow their recipes exactly. As in, if you do not use the same size eggs as they do (size large only!), the same unsalted butter, the same whole (dairy) milk, or the same kosher salt for cooking and table salt for baking. They discourage non dairy or egg substitutions. Perhaps this demand for specificity has to do with the format of cooking (with a rice cooker) that this book features. I don't know. because I don't know much about using rice cookers, which is why I requested an advanced digital copy of this book, so I could find out more and see if one would work for me. But all I'm left with is a feeling that either the authors or the cooker are not open to substitutions, and it's probably just best for me to carry on cooking as I do, as someone who frequently has to make substitutions for dairy, eggs, meat, and gluten. The authors are very detail specific in their instructions on how to use the rice cooker in general, and call for a lot of extra accessories/ a fancy and complicated rice cooker. But this doesn't clarify the question of "is this their preference? Or a requirement for this cooker?"
Since the recipes are heavy in ingredients I can't eat, from the gluten in bread pudding and in salmon cakes to the eggs in a frittata or deviled eggs, to the dairy in Mexican style corn on the cob or in herbed parmesan rice, to the oodles of meat and seafood dishes, I don't feel particularly motivated to try to figure this puzzle out. So instead I'll move on to more flexible cookbooks for inspirations and/or recipes. Thanks anyway to #NetGalley and Tiller Press for sharing a free digital #advancedcopy of #RiceCookerRevival with me in exchange for an honest review.
Nice rice recipes for rice cooker. One thing I would want to stress out is when I read the title I assumed the cookbook covered rice maker recipes only, but in fact it covers more kitchen appliances too.
I tried couple recipes from the book and yes, they were tasty and easy to prepare.
I liked the book arrangement too.
Recommended.
An interesting cookbook!
Rice Cooker Revival is full of recipes and guidance about how to get more out of your rice cooker. There are even variations for using a multicooker, such as an InstantPot. The recipes are varied and cross a selection of different dish types, from meat and seafood to sides to dessert.
I will definitely be trying out some of the recipes since they seem really easy to follow! Maybe some poached pears? :)
Rice Cooker Revival is a tutorial guide and recipe collection to getting the most out of a rice cooker (or Instant Pot/multi cooker) with recipes developed by Roxanne Wyss and Kathy Moore. Due out 17th Nov 2020 from Simon & Schuster on their Tiller Press imprint, it's 176 pages and will be available in paperback and ebook formats.
The authors have decades of experience cooking and writing about cooking and it shows. This is a very well organized book with a good introduction of the various machines as well as a thorough treatment of different rices, methods of soaking and cooking, rinsing or not rinsing and other background info. It should be noted that most of the recipes developed for and included in this book are really mostly suited to a multi-function rice cooker (or instant pot or similar cooker) and not for the basic "one button" basic rice cooker.
The layout is accessible and progresses logically from the introduction. The recipes are grouped roughly thematically: Breakfast & Brunch, Appetizers Snacks & Bites, Vegetarian Dishes & Grains, Fish & Seafood, Meats & Main Dishes, Steaming, Soups & Stews, Rice & Risotto, Side Dishes, and Desserts. The recipe ingredients are listed in a sidebar. Measurements are given in American standard only (with a conversion table in the back of the book for metric). The recipes don't include nutritional information or serving size/yields. Extra tips and variations are provided in a sidebar. The recipe ingredients themselves are (mostly) easily sourced and will be available at well stocked grocery stores. There are a very few ingredients which might be a little more difficult to source, but definitely nothing that is 'way out there'.
The photography is well done but roughly half of the recipes are not illustrated. The photographs which are included are clear and attractive. I wish there had been more photographs and serving suggestions, but I do understand that extra photography increases the price of book projects very quickly and the lack is not crippling because most of these recipes are fairly simple. My other quibble with the book is that although there are a wide variety of world cuisines represented and they're well written and tasty, a majority of them could be -much- more easily prepared on the stovetop or in the oven, skipping the necessity of a multifunction rice cooker or instant pot altogether.
Three stars. The recipes themselves are tasty and well written.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
As requested, review published to goodreads. It is scheduled to be published to other outlets on publication day.
This book has directions for a rice cooker and directions for a multipurpose cooker (like an instant pot, which is what I have)
Hummus and white bean dips look absolutely amazing and a great way to make a frugal recipe that uses pantry ingredients.
I love that there is a vegetarian chapter. Couscous chopped salad is one of my favorite things and I'm so happy to see pearled couscous featured! I plan on sharing the middle eastern rice with my kids, it seems like a nice way to introduce new flavors for us. I also want to try the lemon risotto since my daughter loves all things citrus.
Overall a very nice compilation of recipes with a variety of flavors. I think there's something for everyone in this cookbook. I wish I had something like this 12 years ago when I got a rice cooker for my wedding and never used it because I didn't need to make 'rice', haha.
While there's over 40 pictures, it left something to be desired for me. I love pictures in a cookbook and these were just okay. There were a number of pictures that were of a single ingredient in a recipe instead of the recipe itself. I don't mind this necessarily but when you only get pictures for less than half the recipes, it just made me sad.
I really enjoyed this cookbook as it was showing me how to use a device multiple ways, which as many know is the ultimate. I never thought about using the rice cooker in the many ways suggested. I now want to have one in my home just to try them all out. The color photos are plenty which is another must have in a cookbook. There is a great introduction to using the rice cooker and the parts you might have included. Then we have a break out into each type of meal from breakfast to dessert. If you are using a pressure cooker you're in luck as there are variation instructions. All corners of the world's recipes are included from grits to curry to fish and ribs. You'd be hard pressed to not find something inside that you'd want to give a go. I know what I'll be asking for this holiday season - a new rice cooker and this cookbook!
If you happen to own a modern multifunction rice cooker, or a multi-cooker or Instant Pot®, you should know that Roxanne Wyss and Kathy Moore have teamed up to write Rice Cooker Revival: Surprising Recipes to Make in Your Rice Cooker (and Multicooker or Instant Pot®); it’s a “must have” addition to any good cookbook collection, and it has dozens of tips, techniques, and recipes that will help you happily utilize your amazing appliance.
One of the best things about this cookbook is that there are alternate instructions for using a multi-cooker or Instant Pot for those who don’t own one of the new rice cookers. I have both and the recipes work beautifully in both types of appliances. And many of the recipes are unique and innovative – they aren’t your grandma’s church or community recipes that have made the rounds for years. There are salads made from grains like couscous, quinoa, and rice (Mediterranean Shrimp and Rice Salad is yummy), as well as several vegetables and vegetarian options. The book includes soups, salads, appetizers, and plenty of great seafood, poultry, and meat main dishes. The desserts presented are also delectable.
This book has recipes that regular people will actually want to make. Most are quick and easy, and the instructions are clear and easy-to-follow. This is one book that is suitable for all cooks, from beginners to experienced, and the mouthwatering recipes will appeal to almost everyone. Many of the recipes are photographed, which is helpful. Although it would have been better if all were pictured, this cookbook has so many great recipes that it is definitely still worth owning.
Highly recommended for anyone who owns a modern rice cooker, multi-cooker, or Instant Pot.
Special thanks to NetGalley for supplying a review copy of this book.
Tiller Press and NetGalley provided me with an electronic copy of Rice Cooker Revival: Surprising Recipes to Make in Your Rice Cooker. I voluntarily chose to review this cookbook and my opinion is freely given.
The beginning of this cookbook is what you might expect, namely explanations of the reasons to use a rice cooker, different types, step-by-step instructions, and tips from the professionals. This cookbook is mainly for the multifunctional rice cookers, not the traditional ones. I wish the title had reflected that distinction, as I do not have an advanced rice cooker myself. Overall, there are a lot of inspiring recipes, especially those which have accompanying photographs. There are good tips and hints scattered throughout, allowing readers to look at their rice cookers in a different light. I would recommend Rice Cooker Revival to those who have a multicooker. Listed below are the different sections with some of the standout recipes.
Breakfast & Brunch: Breakfast Oatmeal; Italian Frittata
Appetizers, Snacks, & Bites: Hummus; Deviled Eggs; Glazed Dim Sum Meatballs; Cilantro Lime Shrimp Lettuce Wraps
Vegetarian Dishes & Grains: Couscous Chopped Salad; Israeli Couscous with Roasted Vegetables; Peruvian Brown Rice
Fish & Seafood: Mediterranean Shrimp and Rice Salad; Poached Lemon Tuna on Fresh Greens
Meats & Main Dishes: Red Beans and Rice; Chimichurri Pork Chops with Black Beans and Rice
Steaming: Steamed Asian Chicken Dumplings; Salmon with Herb Vinaigrette; Carrots and Broccoli with Ginger
Soups & Stews: Turkey Chili; Asian Pork and Noodle Soup; Kimchi Beef Stew
Rice & Risotto: Herbed Parmesan Rice; Fiesta Rice; Lemon Risotto
Side Dishes: Mashed Potatoes; Broccoli with Tahini Sauce; Quinoa Broccoli Salad
Desserts: No-Worries Flan; Warm Chocolate Lava Cake; Classic Tapioca Pudding
**I received and voluntarily read an e-ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**
If it weren't for the variety of recipes, this book would barely qualify for one star. I chose to read this book because of the title "Rice Cooker Revival: Surprise Recipes to Make in Your Rice Cooker (and Multicooker or Instant Pot)". It wasn't until I received a copy of the book for review that I learned that my rice cooker (and probably the rice cookers of countless others) wouldn't work for most of the recipes in the book.
My rice cooker is from 2001. There is no multi-function. It's a literally an off/on button I press down to cook that pops back up when the rice is done. I don't have a multicooker or an instant pot, so making most of these recipes according to this book would be impossible.
The recipes look nice, but a lot of them seem messy and like they would need extra clean up if you made them in a cooker.
Overall, 2/5, rounded up from 1, due to the variety of recipes.
I found the recipes in this book to be a fantastic way to utilize your rice cooker for more than just basic rice. Plus the recipes are fantastic! This is a great way to toss your ingredients into your rice cooker and let it do it's magic! The layout is nicely done and the recipes are easy to follow. I highly recommend this cookbook.
I received this book from NetGalley for an honest review.
I never realized how versatile a rice cooker would be. This cookbook really expands the uses of rice cooker from just making rice to making meals.
Perfect hard boiled eggs in a rice cooker?
Yup.
No more standing at the stove to make tapioca pudding?
Yup.
This brought many more uses to my poor underused rice cooker who has sadly only making rice and corn on the cob for years.
Don't worry my little rice cooker, you will be fully abused going forward ;)
Favourite recipe I tried: Steamed Asian chicken dumplings
Thanks to NetGalley and Tiller Press for my DRC.
Thank you NetGalley and Tiller Press for an ARC of this book by Roxanne Wyss and Kathy Moore. I always try to say something nice about a book, even if I don’t enjoy it, so my initial review was simply –
The photos were nice.
But then I would have had to qualify and add – most of them.
Being a little more thorough means, in this case, that I have to get my hands dirty, which I hate.
The word “surprising” in the title is a paradox (or maybe oxymoron?). I was surprised that anyone would make more than half of the recipes proposed in a Rice Cooker. Rice, porridge, tapioca, etc. – I guess it makes sense, although I use my microwave for rice (not the instant kind) and pasta, for the easy clean ups (you can cook and serve in the same pyrex, flavoring before or after). Soups are nice in the Instant Pot and I suppose they might work in the Rice Cooker but I doubt the latter would surpass the former for richness in flavor. Also, I prefer the microwave for custards which I suppose the authors might also have considered appropriate for the Rice Cooker. Maybe the Chocolate Lava Cake works, but the Rice Cooker would be my last choice (well maybe the Instant Pot would be my last choice for CLC).
Steaming sounded like a nightmare, especially making aluminum foil slings to extract your bowls from the Rice Maker. Why not just use a steamer? If I need to sauté, why not just do the whole thing on a burner where I can keep an eye on what is going on and not be restricted by the smaller base of the rice cooker? I guess I missed the point.
There are a lot of really nice recipes in the book that can be made efficiently with or without an electric Rice Cooker, but these opinions are my own and I’m sure there are plenty of Rice Cooker aficionados who will come to their own conclusions.
This book was a bit of a disappointment for me. First of all, you need to have a fancy rice cooker to make the vast majority of the recipes. I don't have a saute, steam or porridge setting on my rice cooker, just a button to push down. Secondly, it often felt like one of those gadget cookbooks where it tells you a hundred dishes you can make with a gadget that would be more easily made with a different gadget or just in your oven or on your stove. One of the recipes doesn't even use a rice cooker. It tells you to saute the ingredients (beef) in a pan and then they're put on hummus. There's a hummus recipe following it that can use a rice cooker on the next page, but struck me as odd as it was the first recipe in that chapter and I read it three times trying to find where the rice cooker was supposed to be used.
Many of the recipes have alternate instructions to use your Instant Pot instead. Many others are basically crock pot recipes. Almost none of them actually seem well designed for a rice cooker, unless it's one of those $200 rice cookers that sings you a song when it finishes (my best friend has one so I've heard the song a lot). But if you have one of those, you probably also have an Instant Pot and you're better off using that instead. Many of the recipes tell you use one or another setting for 2 hours or it says at the bottom you can just do it in the instant pot in 15 minutes.
Lastly, just because you can make a frittata or a cake in a rice cooker doesn't mean it is the best way to do so. How hard would it be to get a frittata out of the bottom of a rice cooker? If you live in a dorm and your rice cooker is your only appliance then this could be a good option, I suppose, but you'd better have an expensive one or you're still out of luck.
No nutritional information is provided for the recipes.
Bottom line -- if you have a fancy rice cooker and don't have an Instant Pot, this might be a fun resource to make the most of it. If you have a regular rice cooker then it won't be much use other than the recipes that include Instant Pot directions, and if you have an IP then you might as well just get an IP cookbook.
Two stars for me, for "it was okay."
I read a temporary ARC of this book for review.
Revival... I think not because I never saw fit to own an appliance that made one thing. However I do have an instapot and they’re pretty interchangeable apparently. The recipes themselves were unique, and seemingly complicated by such detailed notes.
What did I like? The versatility.... I know the instapot makes rice along with a ton of other recipes but it’s not a bad thing to have more instapot recipe books. You can tell the author has given you a assortment of recipes with a macabre of details to help you make a successful dish.
Would I recommend or buy? I’m a fan of instapot but generally rarely eat rice. If rice is your go to staple, then this book is more geared to people who like a grain dish. Couscous, quinoa, rice etc. Its still a wide variety of recipes but my skills are more simplistic in nature. Lack of pictures really saddens me also, what pictures they did have however looked delicious.
Thoughts for the author? Kudos to a lovely cookbook, really wanted more pictures. Thanks so much to the publisher for an reader copy to look at and offer an opinion.
Apparently I have a piece of kitchen equipment in my pantry that can be used to make approximately 1000 times more dishes than I have been using it to make.
Who would've guessed that my rice cooker could be used to make Bacon and Gruyére Bread Pudding, Deviled Eggs, Jambalaya, Chinese Pepper Steak Stir-Fry, Chimichurri Pork Chops, Steak Tacos with Pineapple Salsa, Corn on the Cob, Tomato Soup (one of my fave foods), all kinds of grains, and even dessert. Warm Chocolate Lave Cake anyone?
Loaded with photos, tips, easy step-by-step recipes and approachable grocery lists this is sure to become one of my most frequented cookbooks.
Thank you to Roxanne Wyss, Kathy Moore, Tiller Press and NetGalley for giving me this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
There are so many recipes that you can make using your rice cooker! This book has so very good recipes and i'll be trying some soon. I used to use my rice cooker to cook rice only and sometimes I used to steam veggies there too. It's a nice book and most of the recipes are stuff you already know how to make but they're made in the rice cooker. I received a free digital copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review