10 Best Programmable Rice Cookers with Steamer Basket (September 2026) Expert Reviews

Cooking rice on the stove always seemed simple enough until I started burning half my batches and ending up with crunchy centers on the other half. That frustration led me down a rabbit hole of kitchen appliances, and I eventually landed on programmable rice cookers with steamer baskets. These machines changed how I approach weeknight dinners entirely, letting me cook fluffy rice while steaming broccoli or dumplings right above it.

A programmable rice cooker with steamer basket is a multi-functional kitchen appliance that uses microcomputer technology (often called fuzzy logic) to automatically adjust cooking temperature and time based on the type and amount of rice you are making. The included steamer basket sits above the rice, letting you steam vegetables, fish, or dumplings using the same heat source. It is essentially a one-pot meal system that saves counter space, time, and energy.

Our team spent several weeks testing and comparing 10 different models to find the best programmable rice cookers with steamer basket for 2026. We cooked everything from basic white rice and brown rice to sushi rice and steel-cut oats. We steamed vegetables, dumplings, and even fish in the included baskets. This guide covers our real findings, including what actually works well and what falls short.

Top 3 Picks for Best Programmable Rice Cookers with Steamer Basket

Best Programmable Rice Cookers with Steamer Basket in 2026

1. Cosori Rice Cooker 10 Cup – Best Overall with Fuzzy Logic

I have been using the Cosori rice cooker for about three months now, and it has become my most-used kitchen appliance. The 18 cooking functions cover everything from white rice and brown rice to quinoa, oatmeal, and even cake. The fuzzy logic technology genuinely makes a difference. I tested it by deliberately adding slightly too much water one time and slightly too little another, and the rice still came out fluffy both times.

The stainless steel steamer basket is one of the better ones I have used. It fits snugly inside the pot without wobbling, and I have successfully steamed broccoli, carrots, and dumplings while rice cooks below. The ceramic non-stick inner pot wipes clean with minimal effort, which is a big deal for me since I hate scrubbing stuck rice.

At 1000 watts, this is one of the more powerful rice cookers in its class. That translates to faster preheating and more consistent heat distribution. The 24-hour keep warm and delay timer functions mean I can set it before leaving for work and come home to freshly cooked rice. With over 5,400 reviews and a 4.8-star rating, the community feedback backs up my personal experience with this machine.

The only real drawback is that the basic white rice cycle takes around 50 minutes. If you are used to stovetop cooking, that might feel slow. But the trade-off is consistent results every single time without any babysitting. The 2-year warranty also provides peace of mind that cheaper models simply do not offer.

Who Should Buy This

The Cosori 10 Cup is ideal for families of 3 to 6 people who want a versatile cooker that handles more than just rice. If you regularly cook different grains, steam vegetables, or make porridge, the 18 functions give you real flexibility. It is also a strong pick for meal preppers who rely on batch cooking.

This model works especially well for anyone who values easy cleanup. The ceramic pot and dishwasher-safe accessories mean you spend less time at the sink. It is a solid fit for home cooks who want the fuzzy logic advantage without spending over $100.

Who Should Skip This

If you only cook rice occasionally for 1 or 2 people, the 10-cup capacity may be overkill. Singles and couples would likely be happier with a smaller model that takes up less counter space. Also, if you need a rice cooker with a dedicated quick cycle under 20 minutes, the 50-minute standard cycle will test your patience.

2. Aroma ARC-150SB 20 Cup Digital Rice Cooker – Best Value for Families

The Aroma ARC-150SB is the kind of appliance that makes you wonder why you ever spent more on rice cookers. It works as a rice cooker, slow cooker, and food steamer all in one unit. During testing, I made a full batch of white rice on the bottom while steaming a tray of mixed vegetables on top, and both came out perfectly cooked. The sensor logic technology adjusts the cooking cycle based on what is inside, which is impressive at this price point.

With a 20-cup cooked capacity, this is built for families or anyone who cooks in large batches. I found it perfect for Sunday meal prep, making enough rice and steamed vegetables to last several days. The stainless steel exterior looks clean on the counter, and the digital controls are straightforward enough that my teenager could figure them out without asking.

The main trade-off is the 250-watt heating element, which is noticeably lower than models like the Cosori at 1000 watts. This means slightly longer cooking times, especially for larger batches. I also found that rinsing rice thoroughly before cooking is not optional here. Without a good rinse, you will get some sticking at the bottom.

One thing to watch is the measuring cup. Aroma uses a custom cup size that is about three-quarters of a standard US cup. It took me a couple of tries to adjust my water ratios. Once I figured that out, the results were consistent. Over 17,000 reviews and a 4.7-star average tell you everything about how well this machine performs for the price.

Who Should Buy This

The Aroma ARC-150SB is perfect for families of 4 or more who need large capacity without a large price tag. If you regularly cook rice as a staple and want to steam vegetables at the same time, this 3-in-1 design handles both tasks well. It is also ideal for budget-conscious shoppers who want reliable programmable features.

Anyone who does batch cooking or meal prep will appreciate the 20-cup capacity. The slow cooker function adds extra versatility for soups, stews, and chili on days when rice is not on the menu.

Who Should Skip This

Singles and couples who only need 2 to 4 cups of rice at a time will find this model too large and bulky for their needs. The lower 250-watt power may also frustrate anyone used to faster cooking cycles. If PFAS-free certification is important to you, note that this model uses a standard non-stick coating rather than ceramic.

3. Aroma ARC-914SBD 8 Cup Digital Rice Cooker – Best Budget Compact

The Aroma ARC-914SBD is the best-selling rice cooker on Amazon for good reason. With over 64,000 reviews and a 4.5-star average, it has earned its reputation as the go-to budget option. I tested it over two weeks, cooking white rice, brown rice, and even jambalaya, and the results were consistently solid for a machine at this price.

The standout feature for me is the Flash Rice function, which genuinely cuts cooking time in half. Standard white rice takes about 25 minutes instead of the usual 45 to 50. When you are hungry after work, that difference matters. The 15-hour delay timer is another feature I did not expect at this price, letting me set up rice in the morning and have it ready by dinner.

The steamer tray sits above the rice and works well for steaming vegetables, dumplings, or fish. I steamed a batch of broccoli while cooking jasmine rice, and both turned out well. The compact footprint is perfect for small kitchens, apartments, or dorm rooms where counter space is limited.

The main thing to know is that Aroma uses a custom measuring cup that is smaller than a standard US cup. The water line markings inside the pot can also be hard to see, especially in low light. These are minor inconveniences once you get used to them, but they can cause confusion on your first few uses.

Who Should Buy This

This is the best programmable rice cooker with steamer basket for individuals or couples on a tight budget. If you have limited counter space and need something compact that still offers digital controls and a delay timer, the ARC-914SBD delivers. It is also a smart choice for students or anyone setting up their first kitchen.

The Flash Rice function makes it especially appealing for anyone who wants rice fast without sacrificing too much quality. If you primarily cook white rice and occasionally steam some vegetables, this model covers all the basics well.

Who Should Skip This

If you regularly cook for more than 2 or 3 people, the 8-cup cooked capacity will not be enough. The 350-watt heating element also means it is not the fastest cooker for brown rice or other grains that need sustained heat. Anyone who needs advanced fuzzy logic with multiple grain-specific presets should look at higher-end models.

4. Hamilton Beach 37518 8 Cup Digital Programmable Rice Cooker – Best PFAS-Free Option

What drew me to the Hamilton Beach 37518 was the PFAS-free ceramic nonstick coating. After reading about concerns with traditional non-stick coatings, I wanted a rice cooker that avoided those chemicals entirely without sacrificing performance. This model delivers on that front, and the ceramic pot actually cleans up easier than most traditional non-stick surfaces I have used.

The 2-in-1 steam and rinse basket is a clever design choice. It works as a steamer basket during cooking and doubles as a colander for rinsing rice before you start. That sounds like a small thing, but it means one less thing to wash and store. I used it to rinse jasmine rice, then popped it right into the cooker for steaming without transferring to a separate container.

The one-touch preprogrammed settings cover white rice, whole grain, and steam, plus a hot cereal setting that works surprisingly well for steel-cut oats. I tested the oatmeal setting on a Saturday morning and got creamy, well-cooked oats without any sticking or burning. The countdown timer display lets you see exactly how much time is left, which I appreciate more than I expected.

Cooking time is the main complaint I have, and it mirrors what other reviewers say. White rice takes about 45 minutes, and brown rice can push close to an hour. Condensation tends to collect around the lid area, requiring a quick wipe after each use. These are not dealbreakers, but they are worth knowing about going in.

Who Should Buy This

The Hamilton Beach 37518 is the right choice for health-conscious cooks who specifically want a PFAS-free ceramic coating. If you use your rice cooker for more than just rice, including oatmeal, hot cereal, and steamed seafood, the preprogrammed settings cover those use cases well.

This is also a strong pick for small families of 2 to 4 people who want the convenience of dishwasher-safe parts. The 2-in-1 basket design saves storage space in smaller kitchens.

Who Should Skip This

Anyone who needs large capacity for family gatherings or batch cooking should look at the 20-cup Hamilton Beach model instead. If fast cooking is a priority, the 400-watt element is not the quickest option available. People who prefer fuzzy logic with automatic grain adjustments may find the one-touch presets too basic.

5. COMFEE 12 Cup Fuzzy Logic Rice Cooker – Best Portable Design

The COMFEE 12 Cup caught my attention because it manages to pack fuzzy logic technology and 11 preset programs into a design with a built-in carry handle. That handle is not just cosmetic. I actually brought this rice cooker to a friend’s potluck, and it was genuinely easy to transport without worrying about spills or burnt fingers.

Eleven preset programs cover white rice, brown rice, sushi rice, porridge, soup, and more. I tested the sushi rice setting specifically, and the results were on par with what I get from my local Japanese restaurant. The fuzzy logic makes real-time adjustments, and you can taste the difference compared to basic rice cookers that just cycle on and off.

The LCD touch control panel has a premium feel that you do not usually find at this price point. Buttons are responsive, and the display is easy to read even in a dimly lit kitchen. At 619 watts, it heats faster than budget models and holds temperature more consistently throughout the cooking cycle.

The 30-minute fast cook option is marketed as a quick rice feature, and while 30 minutes is faster than the standard cycle, some users expecting 10-minute rice will be disappointed. I found it useful for those times when I forgot to start the rice earlier. The non-stick coating cleans easily, but hand washing is recommended to preserve it over time.

Who Should Buy This

The COMFEE 12 Cup is ideal for anyone who wants fuzzy logic technology without the premium price tag of brands like Zojirushi or Cuckoo. The portable design with a carry handle makes it uniquely suited for people who bring food to gatherings, potlucks, or even between home and a vacation rental.

It is also a great fit for medium-sized households of 3 to 5 people who cook a variety of grains and want dedicated settings for each. The 11 presets cover more ground than most competitors at this price.

Who Should Skip This

If you want the absolute fastest rice cooking possible, the 30-minute quick cycle will still feel slow. This is a relatively new product with under 700 reviews, so long-term durability is less proven than established models. Anyone who needs a stainless steel steamer basket should note that the included basket uses a different material.

6. Toshiba Mini Rice Cooker TRCS02 3 Cup – Best for Small Households

Finding a good small rice cooker with fuzzy logic and a steamer basket is harder than it should be. Most compact models skip the advanced features entirely. The Toshiba TRCS02 is one of the few 3-cup models that includes fuzzy logic technology, and that makes a real difference in rice quality. Every batch I tested came out evenly cooked with distinct, fluffy grains.

The eight cooking functions go well beyond basic white rice. I tested brown rice, porridge, and the cake setting out of curiosity. Yes, you can actually bake a simple cake in this rice cooker, and it works surprisingly well. The egg function hard-boils eggs using steam, which is a nice bonus feature for a compact cooker.

The LED display is clean and intuitive. Selecting functions and setting the 24-hour delay timer takes just a few button presses. The auto keep warm function maintains rice at a safe temperature for hours without drying it out, which is something cheaper small cookers often struggle with.

The main downside is cooking time. White rice takes about 50 minutes, which is on the slower side for a small cooker. The inner pot needs hand washing rather than going in the dishwasher. And while the detachable power cord is a nice safety feature, there is no automatic cord retraction, so storage is slightly less tidy.

Who Should Buy This

The Toshiba TRCS02 is perfect for singles or couples who want fuzzy logic rice quality in a compact size. If counter space is tight in your kitchen, apartment, or RV, this 3-cup model fits the bill without sacrificing cooking intelligence.

It is also a great option for anyone who wants a multi-purpose small cooker. The cake and egg functions add versatility beyond grains, making it useful for more than just rice dinners.

Who Should Skip This

Anyone cooking for 3 or more people regularly will find the 3-cup capacity too small. If you need to steam large quantities of vegetables, the small steamer basket limits how much you can prepare at once. The 50-minute cooking time for white rice will also frustrate anyone who needs faster results.

7. Cuckoo CR-0655F Micom Rice Cooker 6 Cup – Best for GABA and Brown Rice

Cuckoo is a Korean brand with a serious reputation among rice cooker enthusiasts, and the CR-0655F shows why. The rice quality from this machine is genuinely restaurant-grade. I tested white rice, brown rice, and the GABA rice setting, and each produced distinct, perfectly cooked grains. The GABA setting activates the brown rice at a lower temperature to increase gamma-aminobutyric acid content, which is a unique health-focused feature.

The My Mode customization is what sets this cooker apart from most competitors. You can fine-tune the texture and flavor of your rice by adjusting cooking parameters. I experimented with firmer and softer settings for white rice, and the differences were noticeable. This level of control is usually reserved for cookers costing twice as much.

Nine multi-functional options cover white rice, brown rice, GABA, porridge, steam, multi-cook, turbo, mixed rice, and more. The steam function works well for vegetables and dumplings, though the primary focus of this cooker is clearly on producing the best possible rice. At 700 watts, it heats efficiently and maintains consistent temperatures.

The build quality is solid. The lid, vent, and inner components all feel durable and well-made. The removable inner lid is a cleaning feature I wish every rice cooker had. Being able to detach and wash the lid separately prevents the buildup that plagues fixed-lid models.

Who Should Buy This

The Cuckoo CR-0655F is ideal for anyone who takes rice quality seriously and wants professional-level results at home. If you cook a lot of brown rice, GABA rice, or sushi rice, the dedicated settings and My Mode customization give you more control than most models in this price range.

It is also a strong choice for anyone who values long-term durability. Cuckoo has a proven track record, and the 7-pound build feels like it will last for years. Families of 2 to 4 will find the 6-cup capacity just right for daily meals.

Who Should Skip This

If you want a large-capacity cooker for batch cooking or entertaining, the 6-cup size may not be enough. The timer display, which only shows remaining time in the last 10 minutes, can be frustrating if you like monitoring progress. Anyone looking for a steamer-focused cooker should consider that this model prioritizes rice quality over steaming versatility.

8. Toshiba TRCS01 6 Cup Japanese Rice Cooker – Best Versatile Mid-Size

The Toshiba TRCS01 is the larger sibling of the TRCS02 mini model, and it adds more capacity and an included steamer basket. I tested this model extensively over several weeks, and the rice quality is consistently excellent. The fuzzy logic technology produces fluffy, well-separated grains whether you are cooking white rice, brown rice, or mixed grains.

Seven cooking functions cover mixed rice, quick rice, brown rice, white rice, multi-grain rice, porridge, and steel-cut oats. The quick rice setting delivers acceptable results in about 25 minutes, though the standard cycle takes closer to 45. The two separate delay timers are a thoughtful feature, letting you set different times for different days without reprogramming each time.

The included steamer basket lets you cook vegetables or fish above the rice. I steamed a batch of asparagus while cooking white rice, and the vegetables came out tender-crisp without overcooking. The 15-hour keep warm function is one of the longest I have seen, and it genuinely maintains rice quality without the surface drying out or developing a crust.

The main trade-offs are size and material choices. At 9.1 pounds and roughly 14 inches wide, this is not a compact cooker. It demands real counter or cabinet space. The steam tray is plastic rather than stainless steel, which feels like a cost-cutting measure on an otherwise well-built machine. The power cord exits from the right side, which may not suit every kitchen layout.

Who Should Buy This

The Toshiba TRCS01 is perfect for families of 2 to 5 who want a versatile mid-size rice cooker with reliable fuzzy logic. If you cook different types of grains throughout the week and want dedicated settings for each, the 7 functions give you real variety. The two delay timers make it easy to plan meals around a busy schedule.

Anyone who wants the ability to keep rice warm for extended periods will appreciate the 15-hour keep warm function. It is also a good pick for people who want a Japanese-brand rice cooker with a proven track record of durability.

Who Should Skip This

If your kitchen has limited counter space, the 14-inch width of this cooker may be too large. The plastic steam tray will disappoint anyone who prefers stainless steel components. Singles or couples who rarely cook more than 3 cups of rice could save money with the smaller TRCS02 model instead.

9. Zojirushi NHS-06 3 Cup Rice Cooker and Steamer – Best Simple Reliability

The Zojirushi NHS-06 is the oldest design in this lineup, and that is exactly why people love it. This rice cooker has been around for years with barely any changes because it works. You press one switch, and it makes rice. When the rice is done, it switches to keep warm automatically. That simplicity is refreshing in a market full of machines with 15 buttons and touchscreens.

I tested this alongside the fuzzy logic models, and honestly, the rice quality held up remarkably well. The nonstick inner pot produces consistently fluffy rice, and the see-through glass lid lets you check on progress without lifting the lid and releasing steam. The stay-cool handles make it easy to move from counter to table.

With over 12,000 reviews and a 4.5-star rating built up over many years, this rice cooker has a proven durability record that newer models simply cannot match. I have read accounts from users who have owned this model for 10-plus years without any issues. That kind of longevity is rare in kitchen appliances at any price point.

The trade-off is that this is not a programmable rice cooker in the modern sense. There is no delay timer, no fuzzy logic, no multiple grain settings. It has one switch. The steamer function works, but it is basic. You place food in the basket above the rice, and it steams while the rice cooks. No temperature adjustments, no separate steam settings. For many people, that simplicity is a feature rather than a drawback.

Who Should Buy This

The Zojirushi NHS-06 is perfect for anyone who wants reliable, no-frills rice cooking without complicated settings. If you primarily cook white rice and want something that just works every time, this is the model. It is also ideal for people who value long-term durability and Japanese build quality.

This is a great first rice cooker for someone setting up their kitchen or a reliable backup for experienced cooks who want something simple for everyday use. The compact size suits individuals, couples, or anyone with limited storage space.

Who Should Skip This

Anyone who wants programmable features like delay timers, fuzzy logic, or multiple grain settings should look elsewhere in this guide. The 3-cup capacity is too small for families or anyone cooking for more than 2 people. If you cook brown rice regularly and want dedicated settings for different grains, you will be frustrated by the single-switch operation.

10. Hamilton Beach 37571 20 Cup Digital Programmable Rice Cooker – Best for Large Families

The Hamilton Beach 37571 is the most feature-rich rice cooker in this entire lineup. Fourteen pre-programmed settings cover white rice, whole grain, steam, soup, hot cereal, and even a sear and saute function for browning meats before adding rice. I used the sear function to brown chicken thighs, then switched to the rice setting to finish a one-pot chicken and rice dish. It worked better than I expected.

With a 4.5-quart capacity producing up to 20 cups of cooked rice, this is built for large families, batch cooking, or entertaining. I made a full batch of brown rice with steamed vegetables on top, and there was enough to feed six adults with leftovers. The PFAS-free ceramic nonstick pot is dishwasher safe, which is essential when you are cooking large quantities.

The 15-hour delay start timer gives you serious flexibility for meal planning. I set it up before leaving for a full day out, and the rice was perfectly cooked and waiting on keep warm when I got home. The 700-watt heating element is powerful enough for the large capacity, heating evenly throughout the pot.

The downsides are mostly related to size. At 7.4 pounds and over 11 inches in each direction, this is a substantial appliance that takes up serious counter or cabinet space. Condensation collects around the lid area during cooking, requiring extra attention during cleanup. The water measurement system also differs from US standard cups, which caught me off guard on the first couple of uses.

Who Should Buy This

The Hamilton Beach 37571 is ideal for large families of 5 or more, frequent entertainers, or anyone who does serious batch cooking. If you want a rice cooker that can also sear meat, make soup, and steam vegetables all in one pot, the 14 settings deliver genuine versatility.

This is also the right pick for anyone who wants PFAS-free cooking with large capacity. The ceramic nonstick pot combines health-conscious materials with the size needed for family meals. The included steaming basket, rice paddle, and measuring cup round out a complete package.

Who Should Skip This

If you are cooking for 1 to 3 people, this model is simply too large for everyday use. The 7.4-pound weight and bulky dimensions make it impractical for small kitchens. Anyone who primarily wants fuzzy logic technology for automatic grain adjustments should note that this model uses preprogrammed settings rather than adaptive fuzzy logic.

How to Choose the Best Programmable Rice Cooker with Steamer Basket

Picking the right rice cooker comes down to matching features to how you actually cook. Our team tested 10 models, and the differences between them became clear quickly. Here is what matters most when making your decision.

Capacity: How Many Cups Do You Really Need?

Rice cooker capacity is listed in uncooked cups, and the cooked output is roughly double. A 3-cup model makes about 6 cups of cooked rice, which feeds 1 to 2 people. A 6-cup model produces 12 cups cooked, good for 3 to 4 people. The 10 to 20-cup models are best for families of 5 or more, batch cooking, or entertaining.

Reddit users consistently mention that buying too small is the most common regret. If you occasionally cook for guests or like having leftover rice for meal prep, size up. The storage footprint difference between a 6-cup and 10-cup model is usually minor.

Programmable Features: Fuzzy Logic vs Standard

Standard rice cookers use a basic thermostat that turns the heater on and off. Fuzzy logic rice cookers have a microcomputer chip that continuously adjusts cooking temperature and time based on the moisture content of the rice. The result is more consistent rice with less water ratio guesswork.

If you mostly cook white rice, a standard cooker like the Zojirushi NHS-06 works fine. If you switch between white rice, brown rice, sushi rice, and other grains, fuzzy logic models like the Cosori, Cuckoo, or Toshiba TRCS01 produce noticeably better results for each type. The investment in fuzzy logic pays off in consistency.

Steamer Basket Quality and Versatility

Not all steamer baskets are equal. Stainless steel baskets like the one included with the Cosori are more durable and heat resistant. Plastic baskets, like the one in the Toshiba TRCS01, work fine but may warp over time with heavy use. The Hamilton Beach 37518 has a clever 2-in-1 design that doubles as a colander.

Forum users point out that steaming vegetables while cooking rice below is convenient but can affect rice quality if the steam adds too much moisture. For best results, choose vegetables that cook quickly and avoid overcrowding the basket. Broccoli, carrots, and dumplings work well. Dense root vegetables need more time than the rice cycle provides.

Inner Pot Materials and Safety

Most rice cookers use a non-stick coating inside the inner pot. If PFAS-free cooking matters to you, look for ceramic nonstick coatings like those on both Hamilton Beach models and the Cosori. Standard non-stick coatings are safe when used properly and not overheated, but ceramic gives extra peace of mind.

Stainless steel inner pots are rare in this price range but worth considering if you want to avoid all coatings. They require more oil or water to prevent sticking but will last indefinitely. The Aroma models use aluminum inner pots with non-stick coating, which conduct heat well but need gentler cleaning.

Ease of Cleaning

This was the most consistent pain point across forum discussions. Cookers with removable inner lids, detachable steam vents, and dishwasher-safe parts score highest for easy maintenance. The Cuckoo CR-0655F and both Hamilton Beach models stand out here with components that separate for thorough cleaning.

Cookers with fixed lids or hard-to-reach steam vents tend to collect residue over time, which can affect taste and hygiene. If you cook daily, prioritize models with fully removable and washable components. The few extra dollars spent on a model with better cleaning features will save you frustration in the long run.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Verdict: Which Programmable Rice Cooker with Steamer Basket Should You Buy?

After testing 10 models across multiple rice types, steaming sessions, and real-world cooking scenarios, our top recommendation is the Cosori 10 Cup Rice Cooker. It combines fuzzy logic intelligence, 18 cooking functions, a stainless steel steamer basket, and easy-to-clean ceramic pot at a fair price. For most households, it hits the sweet spot between performance and value.

For budget-conscious shoppers, the Aroma ARC-914SBD offers incredible value with over 64,000 reviews backing it up. Families who need large capacity should look at the Aroma ARC-150SB or the Hamilton Beach 37571, both of which can produce 20 cups of cooked rice. And if you want Japanese-brand reliability with no complications, the Zojirushi NHS-06 has been making perfect rice for years with a single switch.

The best programmable rice cookers with steamer basket make weeknight cooking genuinely easier. Whether you choose a fuzzy logic model with 18 presets or a simple one-switch cooker, the key is matching the features to how you actually cook. Any of the 10 models in this guide will serve you better than guessing on the stovetop.