Pros
- Versatile functions handle rice, grains, oatmeal, steaming and slow cooking perfectly
- User-friendly digital controls with presets for effortless operation
- Reliable results on brown rice and other grains per user feedback
- Stainless steel exterior and nonstick pot for durability
- Includes steam tray, spatula, ladle and measuring cup
Cons
- Non-removable lid makes thorough cleaning awkward
- Larger footprint suits families but crowds small counters
- Water level markings on inner pot are hard to read
The Aroma Housewares ARC-5000SB Professional Plus is a powerhouse multicooker designed for busy families and home cooks who want restaurant-quality rice, steamed vegetables, and slow-cooked meals without constant monitoring. With a generous 20-cup cooked capacity (10 cups uncooked), it handles everything from small batches to feeding a crowd, making it perfect for meal preppers, large households, or anyone tired of stovetop rice disasters.
Standout features shine in real-world use: one-touch settings for white rice, brown rice, grains, oatmeal, steaming, slow cooking, and even Saute-Then-Simmer for risottos or chili. Users rave about fluffy, perfect rice every time, even tricky brown rice, with the Quick Rice option slashing prep time. The steam tray lets you cook healthy sides simultaneously, while low/high slow cook modes deliver tender results like spaghetti sauce or stews. The 15-hour delay timer adds flexibility for scheduled meals.
Build quality impresses with a sleek stainless steel exterior, BPA-free nonstick inner pot, and compact dimensions of 11.4 x 10.8 x 11.2 inches. Accessories like the steam tray, spatula, ladle, and measuring cup enhance usability, and most parts are dishwasher-safe. Digital controls are intuitive, auto-switching to keep-warm post-cook.
Minor drawbacks include the non-detachable lid, which requires careful wiping or tilting to clean, and faint water markings on the pot. Its 5-quart size works well for most but may overwhelm tiny kitchens.
Overall, the ARC-5000SB earns its top rankings as a versatile, reliable multicooker that simplifies healthy cooking and saves time. If you cook rice frequently or want an all-in-one appliance, this is a smart buy.
Brand: Aroma Housewares
Model: ARC-5000SB
Capacity: 20 cups cooked (10 cups uncooked), 5 Quarts
Dimensions: 10.8"D x 11.4"W x 11.2"H
Weight: 3.9 kg
Power: 500 Watts, 120 Volts, Corded Electric
Material: Non-stick Coated Pot, Stainless Steel Lid
Special Features: Programmable, Timer, Non-Stick
Care: Hand Wash (pot recommended)
Users love it for perfect brown rice and quinoa; follow the included measuring cup for best results despite faint markings.
Steam veggies over rice for complete meals, and use Slow Cook High for faster stews.
Clean the lid by tilting under soapy water carefully to avoid electronics.
Great for sushi rice, oatmeal, and one-pot jambalaya per recipes in the manual.