Welcome to the ultimate guide for transforming your Cuisinart Rice Cooker into a versatile kitchen powerhouse! If you think rice cookers are only for making rice, think again.
With a Cuisinart Rice Cooker, you can prepare a wide array of delicious dishes that go beyond the basics.
From fragrant pilafs and savory side dishes to hearty stews and even desserts, this article will explore 25+ innovative recipes that showcase the full potential of your Cuisinart Rice Cooker.
Whether you’re a busy professional looking for quick and easy meals or a culinary enthusiast eager to experiment with new flavors, these recipes are designed to make your cooking experience both enjoyable and effortless.
25+ Delicious Cuisinart Rice Cooker Recipes for Every Occasion
The 25+ recipes included in this guide demonstrate just how versatile and indispensable this kitchen appliance can be.
From wholesome breakfasts and comforting dinners to delightful desserts, each recipe highlights the rice cooker’s ability to deliver perfectly cooked results with minimal effort.
So, the next time you find yourself wondering what to cook, remember that your Cuisinart Rice Cooker is capable of more than just rice—it’s your ticket to a world of delicious and diverse meals.
Cilantro Lime Rice
Cilantro Lime Rice is a vibrant and flavorful side dish that combines zesty lime and fresh cilantro with perfectly cooked rice. This recipe makes use of the Cuisinart Rice Cooker to achieve fluffy, well-seasoned rice every time. It’s a perfect accompaniment to Mexican dishes or as a refreshing base for various bowls.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions:
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain well.
- Add rice, water, olive oil, and salt to the Cuisinart Rice Cooker.
- Set the rice cooker to the Cook function and let it cook until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed.
- Once the rice cooker switches to the Warm setting, let the rice sit for an additional 10 minutes to finish steaming.
- Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in lime juice and chopped cilantro.
Cilantro Lime Rice is a simple yet flavorful side that pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. The Cuisinart Rice Cooker ensures the rice is cooked to perfection, with each grain separated and fluffy. The fresh cilantro and zesty lime add a burst of flavor, making this rice an excellent addition to any meal. It’s perfect for pairing with tacos, grilled chicken, or as a refreshing component in rice bowls.
Coconut Rice with Mango
Coconut Rice with Mango is a tropical-inspired dish that combines the creamy richness of coconut milk with sweet, ripe mango. Using the Cuisinart Rice Cooker simplifies the preparation, allowing the rice to absorb all the delicious flavors and achieve a perfectly creamy texture. This dish is ideal as a side or a light dessert.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 cup water
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 ripe mango, peeled and diced
Instructions:
- Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain well.
- Add rice, coconut milk, water, sugar, and salt to the Cuisinart Rice Cooker.
- Set the rice cooker to the Cook function and let it cook until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Once the rice cooker switches to the Warm setting, let the rice sit for 10 minutes to finish steaming.
- Fluff the rice with a fork and gently fold in the diced mango before serving.
Coconut Rice with Mango offers a delightful mix of creamy and sweet flavors, making it a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a side or a light dessert. The Cuisinart Rice Cooker ensures that the rice is perfectly cooked and infused with the rich taste of coconut milk. The addition of fresh mango provides a touch of sweetness and a tropical flair, making this dish a refreshing and satisfying option for any occasion.
Mushroom Risotto
Mushroom Risotto is a creamy and savory dish that combines tender Arborio rice with earthy mushrooms and rich Parmesan cheese. The Cuisinart Rice Cooker takes the hassle out of making risotto by allowing you to cook it evenly and stir-free, resulting in a luxurious and flavorful dish with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup Arborio rice
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Set the Cuisinart Rice Cooker to the Sauté function. Add a little oil and cook onions until translucent, about 3 minutes.
- Add garlic and mushrooms, and sauté until the mushrooms are tender, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes to lightly toast the rice.
- Add white wine, if using, and cook until mostly absorbed.
- Add vegetable broth and water, and stir well. Set the rice cooker to the Cook function.
- Once the rice cooker switches to the Warm setting, let the risotto sit for 5 minutes. Stir in Parmesan cheese and butter until melted and combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Mushroom Risotto made in the Cuisinart Rice Cooker offers a creamy and rich dish with the ease of hands-off cooking. The rice cooker ensures that the risotto is evenly cooked, with each grain perfectly creamy and infused with the flavors of mushrooms and Parmesan. This dish is perfect for a comforting meal or for entertaining guests, showcasing how simple it can be to prepare a gourmet meal with the help of your rice cooker.
Garlic Herb Rice
Garlic Herb Rice is a fragrant and flavorful dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. The Cuisinart Rice Cooker simplifies the process, allowing you to infuse the rice with garlic and herbs for a deliciously aromatic side dish. This recipe is perfect for adding a touch of gourmet to your everyday meals.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain well.
- Set the Cuisinart Rice Cooker to the Sauté function. Add olive oil and heat until shimmering.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add the rinsed rice to the cooker and stir to coat with the garlic oil.
- Pour in the broth, add dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
- Set the rice cooker to the Cook function and let it cook until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Once the rice cooker switches to the Warm setting, let the rice sit for 10 minutes. Fluff with a fork and stir in fresh parsley.
Garlic Herb Rice is a simple yet sophisticated side dish that enhances any meal with its aromatic flavors. Using the Cuisinart Rice Cooker ensures that the rice is cooked evenly and absorbs the savory garlic and herb seasonings perfectly. This dish is ideal for accompanying everything from grilled meats to roasted vegetables, adding a burst of flavor with minimal effort.
Spicy Jollof Rice
Spicy Jollof Rice is a vibrant West African dish that combines rice with a rich tomato and pepper sauce, spiced with traditional seasonings. The Cuisinart Rice Cooker makes it easy to prepare this flavorful dish, ensuring the rice is cooked to perfection and infused with a depth of spicy, tangy flavors.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup long-grain parboiled rice
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, chopped
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp curry powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain well.
- Set the Cuisinart Rice Cooker to the Sauté function. Add a little oil and sauté onions, bell peppers, and garlic until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, broth, paprika, cayenne pepper, thyme, curry powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add the rinsed rice and stir to combine with the sauce.
- Set the rice cooker to the Cook function and let it cook until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Once the rice cooker switches to the Warm setting, let the rice sit for 10 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
Spicy Jollof Rice offers a burst of West African flavors with its rich tomato base and aromatic spices. The Cuisinart Rice Cooker ensures that the rice is evenly cooked and thoroughly infused with the spicy, tangy sauce. This dish is a great way to introduce new flavors into your cooking repertoire, perfect for serving with grilled meats or as a standalone vegetarian option.
Lemon Parmesan Rice
Lemon Parmesan Rice is a light and zesty side dish that combines the tang of lemon with the richness of Parmesan cheese. The Cuisinart Rice Cooker simplifies the preparation, allowing the rice to absorb the bright, savory flavors for a delightful accompaniment to any meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp butter
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh chives, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain well.
- Add the rice, broth, and butter to the Cuisinart Rice Cooker.
- Set the rice cooker to the Cook function and let it cook until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Once the rice cooker switches to the Warm setting, let the rice sit for 10 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
- Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped chives. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Lemon Parmesan Rice is a refreshing and flavorful side dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses. The Cuisinart Rice Cooker ensures that the rice is perfectly cooked and infused with the zesty lemon and creamy Parmesan. This dish is a great way to elevate your meals with minimal effort, making it a perfect addition to both everyday dinners and special occasions.
Mediterranean Rice
Mediterranean Rice is a vibrant and healthy dish that combines the flavors of the Mediterranean with fluffy rice. The Cuisinart Rice Cooker streamlines the cooking process, ensuring the rice is perfectly cooked and infused with a mixture of herbs, olives, and tomatoes. This recipe is ideal as a side dish or a light main course.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 1/2 cups vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain well.
- Set the Cuisinart Rice Cooker to the Sauté function. Add olive oil and heat until shimmering.
- Sauté garlic and red onion until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Add the cherry tomatoes and olives, and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Stir in the rice, vegetable broth, oregano, and basil. Season with salt and pepper.
- Set the rice cooker to the Cook function and let it cook until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Once the rice cooker switches to the Warm setting, let it sit for 10 minutes. Fluff with a fork and stir in crumbled feta cheese.
Mediterranean Rice brings a burst of fresh flavors and textures to your meal, thanks to the combination of juicy cherry tomatoes, tangy olives, and creamy feta cheese. The Cuisinart Rice Cooker makes it easy to achieve perfectly cooked rice infused with Mediterranean goodness. This dish is versatile enough to serve as a side or a main course, adding a touch of healthy and vibrant flavor to any dining experience.
Tomato Basil Rice
Tomato Basil Rice is a savory, herb-infused side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. Utilizing the Cuisinart Rice Cooker, this recipe ensures that the rice is cooked to fluffy perfection while absorbing the rich flavors of tomatoes and fresh basil. It’s an easy way to elevate your meal with a touch of Italian flair.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 1/2 cups tomato sauce
- 1 cup water
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain well.
- Set the Cuisinart Rice Cooker to the Sauté function. Add olive oil and heat until shimmering.
- Sauté onions and garlic until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, water, and dried Italian seasoning. Bring to a simmer.
- Add the rice, season with salt and pepper, and stir well.
- Set the rice cooker to the Cook function and let it cook until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Once the rice cooker switches to the Warm setting, let it sit for 10 minutes. Fluff with a fork and stir in chopped fresh basil.
Tomato Basil Rice is a classic, flavorful side dish that complements a wide range of entrees. The Cuisinart Rice Cooker ensures that the rice cooks evenly, absorbing the rich tomato sauce and aromatic basil. This dish is a great way to add a bit of Italian-inspired comfort to your meals with minimal effort, making it a staple for easy weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Curry Rice
Curry Rice is a comforting dish that blends fragrant spices with tender rice, creating a deliciously savory side. The Cuisinart Rice Cooker takes the guesswork out of cooking curry rice, allowing you to achieve a perfectly spiced and fluffy result every time. This recipe is a fantastic accompaniment to a variety of dishes or can be enjoyed on its own.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 1/2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1/2 cup diced carrots
- 1/2 cup peas
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp curry powder
- 1/2 tsp turmeric
- 1/4 tsp ground cumin
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain well.
- Set the Cuisinart Rice Cooker to the Sauté function. Add olive oil and heat until shimmering.
- Sauté onions and garlic until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Stir in curry powder, turmeric, and cumin, and cook for another minute.
- Add the diced carrots, peas, and rice, and stir to coat with the spices.
- Pour in the broth and season with salt and pepper. Stir well.
- Set the rice cooker to the Cook function and let it cook until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Once the rice cooker switches to the Warm setting, let it sit for 10 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
Curry Rice offers a warm and satisfying blend of spices and vegetables that pairs wonderfully with a variety of main dishes. The Cuisinart Rice Cooker ensures the rice is cooked to perfection, with each grain infused with the aromatic flavors of curry and turmeric. This dish is ideal for adding a bit of exotic flair to your meals, whether you’re serving it alongside grilled meats or enjoying it as a flavorful vegetarian option.
Herb and Garlic Rice Pilaf
Herb and Garlic Rice Pilaf is a flavorful and aromatic side dish that combines the earthy taste of herbs with the rich aroma of garlic. The Cuisinart Rice Cooker makes preparing this delicious pilaf easy, ensuring perfectly cooked rice infused with a blend of herbs and garlic. This recipe is perfect for enhancing any meal with a touch of gourmet flair.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 1/2 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1/2 tsp dried sage
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain well.
- Set the Cuisinart Rice Cooker to the Sauté function. Add olive oil and heat until shimmering.
- Sauté onions and garlic until softened and fragrant, about 3 minutes.
- Stir in the dried thyme, rosemary, and sage, and cook for another minute.
- Add the rinsed rice and stir to coat with the herb mixture.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and season with salt and pepper.
- Set the rice cooker to the Cook function and let it cook until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Once the rice cooker switches to the Warm setting, let it sit for 10 minutes before fluffing with a fork. Stir in chopped parsley before serving.
Herb and Garlic Rice Pilaf is a savory and aromatic side dish that adds a burst of flavor to any meal. The Cuisinart Rice Cooker simplifies the process, ensuring the rice is perfectly cooked and infused with the rich flavors of garlic and herbs. This dish is versatile and pairs beautifully with a wide range of main courses, from roasted meats to vegetarian dishes, making it a perfect addition to your culinary repertoire.
Sweet and Spicy Rice
Sweet and Spicy Rice is a unique and flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of honey with the heat of chili flakes. The Cuisinart Rice Cooker makes it easy to achieve a perfectly balanced dish where the rice is evenly coated with the sweet and spicy sauce. This recipe is ideal as a side dish or a unique base for a variety of proteins.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 1 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1/2 tsp chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
- Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain well.
- Set the Cuisinart Rice Cooker to the Sauté function. Add olive oil and heat until shimmering.
- Add the honey, soy sauce, and chili flakes to the oil and stir to combine.
- Add the rinsed rice and stir to coat with the honey mixture.
- Pour in the broth and season with a little salt.
- Set the rice cooker to the Cook function and let it cook until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Once the rice cooker switches to the Warm setting, let it sit for 10 minutes before fluffing with a fork. Stir in chopped green onions before serving.
Sweet and Spicy Rice is a delightful dish that balances sweet honey with a kick of chili heat, creating a unique flavor profile that pairs well with a variety of proteins. The Cuisinart Rice Cooker ensures the rice is cooked perfectly and evenly coated with the flavorful sauce. This dish is an excellent choice for adding a touch of excitement to your meals and can be a great accompaniment to both savory and sweet entrees.
Cilantro Lime Quinoa
Cilantro Lime Quinoa is a refreshing and zesty side dish that combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the bright tastes of lime and cilantro. The Cuisinart Rice Cooker makes preparing this dish effortless, delivering a perfectly cooked quinoa that’s light, fluffy, and infused with fresh flavors. It’s an excellent alternative to traditional rice sides and complements a wide range of meals.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup quinoa
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Juice and zest of 1 lime
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup red bell pepper, diced (optional)
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Rinse the quinoa under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain well.
- Add quinoa and water to the Cuisinart Rice Cooker.
- Set the rice cooker to the Cook function and let it cook until the quinoa is tender and the water is absorbed.
- Once the rice cooker switches to the Warm setting, let the quinoa sit for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
- Stir in olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, fresh cilantro, and optional red bell pepper and green onions. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cilantro Lime Quinoa offers a light and refreshing twist on traditional side dishes, combining the nutty flavor of quinoa with the bright and zesty notes of lime and cilantro. The Cuisinart Rice Cooker simplifies the preparation, ensuring the quinoa is perfectly cooked and infused with fresh flavors. This dish is a versatile addition to any meal, ideal for pairing with grilled meats, salads, or as a base for a nutritious bowl.