Cuisinart PRC-4 Series Manual

The Cuisinart PRC-4 Series is a versatile programmable rice cooker featuring a 4-cup capacity, multiple cooking functions for white rice, brown rice, sushi rice, and porridge, a keep-warm function, a delay timer, and a nonstick inner cooking pot. It includes a measuring cup, rice spatula, and steam tray. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Cooking Functions 7. Care & Cleaning 8. Regulatory Information 9. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Main unit with digital control panel, Nonstick inner cooking pot, Steam tray, Measuring cup, Rice spatula.

FeatureDescription
Capacity4-cup (uncooked) capacity
Cooking FunctionsWhite Rice, Brown Rice, Sushi Rice, Porridge
Keep-Warm FunctionAutomatically keeps rice warm after cooking
Delay TimerProgram cooking start time up to 24 hours in advance
Nonstick Inner PotEasy cleaning and rice release
Steam TrayFor steaming vegetables or proteins while cooking rice
Digital Control PanelLED display with touch controls
Measuring CupIncluded for accurate rice measurement
Rice SpatulaIncluded for serving and stirring
Power CordDetachable for easy storage

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable, heat-resistant surface away from edges.

  1. Remove all packaging materials and stickers from the unit.
  2. Wash the inner cooking pot, steam tray, measuring cup, and rice spatula with warm, soapy water. Rinse and dry thoroughly.
  3. Place the inner cooking pot securely into the main unit.
  4. Ensure the steam vent is clear and unobstructed.
  5. Plug the power cord into a standard 120V AC outlet.

WARNING! Do not immerse the main unit, cord, or plug in water or any other liquid. Ensure the unit is placed on a dry, level surface.

First-Time Setup

Before first use, perform a test run with water to clean the unit and familiarize yourself with the controls.

  1. Add 2 cups of water to the inner cooking pot.
  2. Close the lid securely.
  3. Press the POWER button to turn on the unit.
  4. Select the WHITE RICE function and press START. Allow the cycle to complete.
  5. Once complete, discard the water. The unit is now ready for cooking.
  6. Set the clock by pressing and holding the CLOCK button, then use the + and - buttons to adjust the time.

CAUTION! The outer surface and steam vent will become hot during use. Keep hands and face away from steam.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access all functions via the digital control panel on the front of the unit.

Control Panel: POWER, MENU (cycles through functions: WHITE RICE, BROWN RICE, SUSHI RICE, PORRIDGE, STEAM), CLOCK/TIMER, DELAY START, KEEP WARM, START/STOP.

Basic Operation: Press POWER. Use MENU to select desired function. The default cooking time for the selected function will display. To use the delay timer, press DELAY START and use + and - to set the hours until cooking should begin, then press START. The KEEP WARM function activates automatically after cooking completes. To cancel a cycle, press and hold START/STOP for 3 seconds.

Cooking Functions

Follow the measuring guide (using the included cup) for perfect results every time.

  1. Rinsing Rice: Always rinse rice in a separate bowl until water runs clear to remove excess starch.
  2. Water Ratios: Add rinsed rice and water to the inner pot. Use the water level lines inside the pot or follow the guide: White Rice (1:1 ratio), Brown Rice (1:1.25 ratio), Sushi Rice (1:1 ratio).
  3. Cooking: Close lid, select function, press START. The display will show countdown.
  4. Steaming: Add water to the inner pot, place food in the steam tray, select STEAM function, set time with +/-, press START.
  5. Porridge: Use a 1:5 rice-to-water ratio. Select PORRIDGE function.
  6. After Cooking: Let rice sit for 10-15 minutes with the lid closed after the cycle ends for best texture. Fluff with rice spatula.

WARNING! Do not open the lid during cooking. Scalding steam may be released.

Care & Cleaning

Unplug and allow the unit to cool completely before cleaning.

  1. Inner Pot & Accessories: Wash with warm, soapy water. Do not use abrasive cleaners or scouring pads on the nonstick surface.
  2. Lid & Steam Vent: Wipe with a damp cloth. The inner lid may be removable; check your model's instructions.
  3. Exterior & Heating Plate: Wipe with a damp cloth. Ensure no water enters the main unit or control panel. Dry the heating plate (bottom of the main unit) thoroughly.
  4. Storage: Ensure all parts are completely dry before storing. Store the cord separately if possible.

CAUTION! Never immerse the main unit in water. Do not use the inner pot on a stovetop.

Regulatory Information

This appliance has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Copyright © Cuisinart. Cuisinart is a registered trademark of Conair Corporation. For support, visit www.cuisinart.com or contact customer service at 1-800-726-0190.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Unit will not turn onNo powerEnsure the unit is plugged in securely. Check the outlet.
Rice is undercookedInsufficient waterUse the correct water-to-rice ratio. Ensure the lid is closed properly.
Rice is mushy or overcookedToo much waterUse less water next time. Measure rice and water accurately.
Rice is burning on bottomIncorrect function or old riceUse the correct function for the rice type. Do not leave rice on Keep-Warm for more than 12 hours.
Steam escaping excessivelyOverfilled or lid not sealedDo not exceed the MAX fill line. Ensure the lid is locked in place.
Error code on display (e.g., E1)Sensor issue or overheatingUnplug the unit, let it cool completely for 30 minutes. Ensure the inner pot is correctly placed. Plug back in and restart.

Reset: Unplug the unit for 5 minutes to reset the microprocessor.

Service: For repairs, contact authorized Cuisinart service center. Do not attempt to disassemble the unit.

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