BLACK+DECKER HS900 Flavor Steamer Rice Cooker Plus Instruction Manual

Introduction

This manual provides comprehensive instructions for the safe and efficient operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your BLACK+DECKER HS900 Flavor Steamer Rice Cooker Plus. This versatile appliance allows you to steam a variety of foods, including vegetables, seafood, and rice, promoting healthy cooking habits. It features a divided steaming bowl for simultaneous cooking of different foods, a built-in flavor scenter screen for herbs and spices, a 75-minute timer with automatic shut-off, and includes both a 4-quart steaming/serving bowl and an 8-cup rice bowl.

Important Safety Information

When using electrical appliances, basic safety precautions should always be followed to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, and/or injury to persons, including the following:

• Read all instructions before using the appliance.
• Do not touch hot surfaces. Use handles or knobs.
• To protect against electrical hazards, do not immerse cord, plugs, or appliance in water or other liquid.
• Close supervision is necessary when any appliance is used by or near children.
• Unplug from outlet when not in use and before cleaning. Allow to cool before putting on or taking off parts, and before cleaning the appliance.
• Do not operate any appliance with a damaged cord or plug, or after the appliance malfunctions or has been damaged in any manner. Contact customer service for examination, repair, or adjustment.
• The use of accessory attachments not recommended by the appliance manufacturer may cause injuries.
• Do not use outdoors.
• Do not let cord hang over edge of table or counter, or touch hot surfaces.
• Do not place on or near a hot gas or electric burner, or in a heated oven.
• Extreme caution must be used when moving an appliance containing hot oil or other hot liquids.
• Always attach plug to appliance first, then plug cord into the wall outlet. To disconnect, turn any control to "off", then remove plug from wall outlet.
• Do not use appliance for other than intended use.

Product Components

Your BLACK+DECKER HS900 Flavor Steamer Rice Cooker Plus comes with several key components designed for efficient and versatile cooking:

• Base Unit: The main heating element and control panel with a 75-minute timer.
• Water Reservoir: Located within the base unit, this holds the water for steaming.
• Steaming Basket (4-quart): A large, clear basket for steaming various foods. It includes a divider for separating different food items.
• Rice Bowl (8-cup): A dedicated bowl designed for cooking rice, which fits inside the steaming basket.
• Flavor Scenter Screen: A small, removable screen integrated into the steaming basket lid, allowing you to infuse steam with herbs and spices.
• Lid: A clear lid that covers the steaming basket, trapping steam for efficient cooking.
• Measuring Cup and Serving Spoon: Included for precise measurements and serving.

Figure 1: Overview of the BLACK+DECKER HS900 Flavor Steamer Rice Cooker Plus components, showing the base, clear steaming basket, and white rice bowl.

Setup

1. Unpack: Carefully remove all components from the packaging. Retain packaging for future storage or transport.
2. Initial Cleaning: Before first use, wash the steaming basket, rice bowl, flavor scenter screen, and lid in warm, soapy water. Rinse thoroughly and dry. Wipe the base unit with a damp cloth. Do not immerse the base unit in water.
3. Placement: Place the steamer on a stable, heat-resistant, and level surface, away from the edge of the counter. Ensure adequate ventilation around the unit.
4. Assemble: Place the steaming basket onto the base unit, ensuring it sits securely. If cooking rice, place the rice bowl inside the steaming basket.

Operating Instructions

General Steaming Procedure:

1. Fill Water Reservoir: Pour fresh, cold water into the water reservoir in the base unit. Do not exceed the maximum fill line.
2. Add Food: Place your desired food items into the 4-quart steaming basket. If steaming different foods simultaneously, use the divider to separate them.
3. Use Flavor Scenter (Optional): For enhanced flavor, place herbs, spices, or aromatics onto the flavor scenter screen located in the lid.
4. Cover: Place the lid securely on top of the steaming basket.
5. Set Timer: Plug the appliance into a 120V AC electrical outlet. Turn the timer dial to the desired cooking time (up to 75 minutes). The steamer will begin to generate steam.
6. Automatic Shut-off: The steamer will automatically turn off and a signal bell will sound once the set time has elapsed.
7. Serve: Carefully remove the lid (steam will be hot) and then the steaming basket. Use oven mitts or heat-resistant gloves. Serve food immediately.

Cooking Rice:

• Place the 8-cup rice bowl inside the 4-quart steaming basket.
• Add desired amount of rice and water to the rice bowl. A common ratio is 1 cup of rice to 1.5-2 cups of water, but always refer to the rice packaging for specific instructions.
• Follow the general steaming procedure above, setting the timer according to your rice type (typically 20-30 minutes for white rice, longer for brown rice).

Figure 2: The steamer in operation, demonstrating the divided steaming basket with vegetables and a separate rice bowl.

Maintenance and Cleaning

Proper cleaning and maintenance will ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your steamer.

• Always unplug the appliance from the electrical outlet and allow it to cool completely before cleaning.
• Washing Removable Parts: The steaming basket, rice bowl, flavor scenter screen, and lid are all dishwasher-safe (top rack recommended) or can be hand washed in warm, soapy water. Rinse thoroughly and dry completely.
• Cleaning the Base Unit: Wipe the exterior of the base unit with a damp cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or scouring pads. Never immerse the base unit in water or any other liquid.
• Mineral Deposits: Over time, mineral deposits may accumulate on the heating plate in the water reservoir. To remove these, fill the reservoir with a mixture of 1 part white vinegar and 2 parts water. Let it soak for 20-30 minutes, then scrub gently with a non-abrasive brush or sponge. Rinse thoroughly and dry.
• Storage: Ensure all parts are clean and dry before storing. Store the appliance in a cool, dry place.

Troubleshooting

Specifications

Warranty and Support

For warranty information, product support, or to purchase replacement parts, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official BLACK+DECKER website. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for any warranty claims.

Manufacturer: Black & Decker