Cuisinart PRC-12 Series Manual

The Cuisinart PRC-12 Series is a high-performance programmable rice cooker featuring a durable nonstick cooking bowl, multiple cooking functions (White Rice, Brown Rice, Steam, Slow Cook, Keep Warm), digital controls with delay timer, and a steaming basket. It is designed for easy operation and consistent results. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, care, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation & Setup 3. First-Time Use 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Functions 6. Cooking Guide 7. Steaming Function 8. Cleaning & Maintenance 9. Safety Information 10. Warranty & Support 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Main unit with digital control panel, Nonstick cooking bowl, Glass lid, Measuring cup, Rice spatula, Steaming basket.

FeatureDescription
Digital Control PanelTouchpad with LCD display for programming
Cooking FunctionsWhite Rice, Brown Rice, Steam, Slow Cook, Keep Warm
Delay TimerProgram cooking start time up to 24 hours in advance
Nonstick Cooking BowlRemovable, dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning
Steaming BasketFor steaming vegetables, fish, or dumplings
Keep Warm FunctionAutomatically keeps food warm after cooking
Glass LidAllows viewing of cooking process
Measuring Cup & SpatulaIncluded for accurate measuring and serving
Power CordDetachable for easy storage
Indicator LightsShow current function and status

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect all contents. Ensure all parts are present and undamaged.

  1. Place the rice cooker on a stable, level, heat-resistant surface away from edges.
  2. Wash the cooking bowl, steaming basket, glass lid, measuring cup, and spatula with warm soapy water before first use.
  3. Insert the cooking bowl into the main unit, ensuring it sits properly on the heating plate.
  4. Connect the detachable power cord to the unit and plug into a standard 120V AC outlet.

WARNING! Do not immerse the main unit, cord, or plug in water or any liquid. Keep the cord away from hot surfaces.

First-Time Use

Before cooking food, it is recommended to perform an initial water run to clean the unit.

  1. Fill the cooking bowl with 2 cups of water.
  2. Close the glass lid securely.
  3. Press the White Rice button, then press Start.
  4. Allow the cycle to complete, then discard the water and dry all parts thoroughly.
  5. Your rice cooker is now ready for cooking.

CAUTION! The exterior surfaces may become hot during operation. Use handles and avoid touching hot parts.

Specifications

Controls and Functions

The digital control panel includes the following buttons and indicators:

Function Buttons: WHITE RICE, BROWN RICE, STEAM, SLOW COOK, KEEP WARM, DELAY TIMER (+/-), START/STOP.

LCD Display: Shows selected function, remaining cook time, delay time, and clock.

Operation: Select a cooking function. Use DELAY TIMER buttons to set a start time (if desired). Press START to begin. The display will show countdown. When cooking is complete, the unit will automatically switch to Keep Warm mode. Press STOP to cancel a cycle.

Note: The Keep Warm function will maintain temperature for up to 12 hours. For best results, serve food within 2 hours.

Cooking Guide

For perfect rice every time, follow these general steps and measurements.

  1. Measure rice using the provided cup. Rinse rice in cold water until water runs clear.
  2. Add rinsed rice to the cooking bowl. Add water according to the markings inside the bowl (e.g., for white rice, fill water to the corresponding line).
  3. Close the lid securely. Select the appropriate function (WHITE RICE or BROWN RICE).
  4. Press START. Do not open the lid during cooking.
  5. When the cycle ends, a beep will sound. Let the rice sit for 5-10 minutes with the lid closed before fluffing and serving.

Tip: Use the included spatula to fluff rice; metal utensils can damage the nonstick coating.

Steaming Function

The steaming basket allows you to cook vegetables, fish, or dumplings.

  1. Add at least 1 cup of water to the cooking bowl.
  2. Place food in the steaming basket. Do not overfill.
  3. Insert the basket into the cooking bowl. Close the lid.
  4. Press the STEAM button. The default time is 20 minutes. Use the +/- buttons to adjust time (10-60 minutes).
  5. Press START. When done, carefully remove the basket using oven mitts.

WARNING! Steam is hot. Open the lid away from your face and use caution when removing the basket.

Cleaning & Maintenance

Unplug and allow the unit to cool completely before cleaning.

Cooking Bowl, Lid, Basket, Accessories: Wash with warm soapy water. The bowl and basket are dishwasher safe (top rack recommended).

Exterior & Heating Plate: Wipe with a damp cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or scouring pads.

CAUTION! Never immerse the main unit, cord, or plug in water. Do not use the cooking bowl on a stovetop.

Safety Information

Important safeguards to prevent fire, electric shock, or injury.

Warranty & Support

Cuisinart offers a limited 3-year warranty on the PRC-12 Series. Proof of purchase is required. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal household use. For service, support, or to register your product:

Website: www.cuisinart.com
Customer Service: 1-800-726-0190
Address: Cuisinart, 150 Milford Road, East Windsor, NJ 08520.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Unit will not turn onPower issueEnsure unit is plugged in securely. Check outlet. Ensure bowl is correctly inserted.
Rice is undercooked/wateryIncorrect water ratioUse the measuring cup and water level lines inside the bowl. Do not lift lid during cooking.
Rice is overcooked/burntToo little waterAdd more water according to guidelines. Ensure the Keep Warm cycle is not excessively long.
Steam function not workingInsufficient waterEnsure at least 1 cup of water is in the bowl before starting the steam cycle.
Delay timer not functioningProgramming errorSet the clock first. Press DELAY, then use +/- to set hours, then press START.
Nonstick coating peelingUse of metal utensilsUse only wooden, plastic, or silicone utensils. Discontinue use if coating is damaged.

Reset: Unplug the unit for 2 minutes to reset the microprocessor.

Service: For repairs not covered in troubleshooting, contact Cuisinart Customer Service.

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