1. Introduction
Thank you for purchasing the Alpina 1.8 Liter Rice Cooker. This appliance is designed to simplify rice preparation and keep it warm until serving. Please read this instruction manual carefully before first use to ensure safe operation and optimal performance. Keep this manual for future reference.
2. Important Safety Instructions
- Read all instructions before using the appliance.
- Do not touch hot surfaces. Use handles or knobs.
- To protect against electrical shock, do not immerse cord, plugs, or the main unit 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.
- Do not operate any appliance with a damaged cord or plug, or after the appliance malfunctions or has been damaged in any manner.
- The use of accessory attachments not recommended by the appliance manufacturer may cause injuries.
- Do not use outdoors.
- Do not let the cord hang over the edge of a 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 the appliance for other than intended use.
- This appliance is for household use only.
- Ensure the voltage indicated on the appliance matches your local power supply before connecting.
3. Product Overview and Components
Familiarize yourself with the parts of your Alpina Rice Cooker:
- Main Unit: The outer housing of the rice cooker.
- Non-Stick Inner Pot: Removable aluminum pot with non-stick coating for cooking rice. Features water level markings.
- Glass Lid: Transparent lid with a steam vent to monitor cooking.
- Steam Basket: Aluminum basket for steaming vegetables or other foods.
- Measuring Cup: For accurate measurement of rice.
- Spatula: For stirring and serving rice without damaging the non-stick coating.
- Control Panel: Features 'Warm' and 'Cook' indicator lights and a power switch.
- Detachable Power Cable: For connecting the appliance to a power source.
4. Setup and First Use
- Unpack: Carefully remove all components from the packaging.
- Clean: Wash the inner pot, steam basket, glass lid, measuring cup, and spatula with warm, soapy water. Rinse thoroughly and dry completely. Do not immerse the main unit in water.
- Placement: Place the rice cooker on a stable, flat, heat-resistant surface, away from water and heat sources. Ensure adequate ventilation around the appliance.
- Assemble: Place the clean inner pot into the main unit.
- Connect Power: Insert the detachable power cable into the appliance, then plug it into a suitable electrical outlet.
5. Operating Instructions
5.1 Cooking Rice
- Measure Rice: Use the provided measuring cup to measure the desired amount of rice. One cup of uncooked rice typically yields about two cups of cooked rice.
- Wash Rice: Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch.
- Add to Inner Pot: Place the washed rice into the non-stick inner pot.
- Add Water: Add the appropriate amount of water. A common ratio is 1:1.5 (1 cup rice to 1.5 cups water), but this can vary based on rice type and personal preference. Use the markings inside the inner pot as a guide.
- Place Inner Pot: Ensure the inner pot is properly seated in the main unit.
- Close Lid: Place the glass lid securely on the rice cooker.
- Start Cooking: Plug in the rice cooker (if not already) and press the power switch to the 'ON' position. The 'Cook' indicator light will illuminate.
- Automatic Keep Warm: Once the rice is cooked, the appliance will automatically switch to the 'Warm' function, and the 'Warm' indicator light will illuminate. The 'Cook' light will turn off.
- Resting Period: For best results, allow the rice to rest on 'Warm' for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the moisture to distribute evenly.
- Serve: Use the provided spatula to fluff and serve the rice.
5.2 Steaming Vegetables (Optional)
- Prepare Rice: Follow steps 5.1.1 to 5.1.4 for cooking rice.
- Prepare Vegetables: Wash and cut vegetables into uniform pieces.
- Place in Steam Basket: Arrange vegetables in the aluminum steam basket.
- Position Basket: Place the steam basket on top of the inner pot containing the rice and water.
- Cook: Close the glass lid and start the cooking process as described in section 5.1. The vegetables will steam while the rice cooks.
- Monitor: Cooking times for vegetables vary. Check for desired tenderness. You may remove the steam basket earlier if vegetables are cooked before the rice finishes.
5.3 Keep Warm Function
The rice cooker automatically switches to the 'Warm' function once cooking is complete. This function maintains the rice at an optimal serving temperature without overcooking. Do not keep rice on 'Warm' for more than 12 hours to maintain quality and safety.
6. Cleaning and Maintenance
Proper cleaning ensures the longevity and hygiene of your rice cooker.
- Unplug: Always unplug the rice cooker from the power outlet and allow it to cool completely before cleaning.
- Remove Components: Take out the inner pot, steam basket, and glass lid.
- Hand Wash: Wash the inner pot, steam basket, glass lid, measuring cup, and spatula with warm, soapy water. Use a soft sponge or cloth to avoid scratching the non-stick coating. Rinse thoroughly and dry completely.
- Clean Main Unit: Wipe the exterior of the main unit with a damp cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or scouring pads. Never immerse the main unit in water or any other liquid.
- Storage: Store the cleaned and dried rice cooker in a cool, dry place.
7. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Rice is too hard/undercooked | Not enough water; cooking cycle interrupted; old rice. | Add more water next time; ensure lid is closed; use fresh rice. |
| Rice is too soft/mushy | Too much water; rice soaked too long. | Reduce water next time; do not soak rice for extended periods. |
| Rice sticks to the bottom | Inner pot not clean; insufficient water; rice not rinsed. | Ensure inner pot is clean; use correct water ratio; rinse rice thoroughly. |
| Cooker does not turn on | Not plugged in; power switch off; power outage. | Check power connection; ensure switch is 'ON'; check household power. |
| Steam escaping from lid edges | Lid not properly seated; lid damaged. | Ensure lid is correctly placed; inspect lid for damage. |
8. Specifications
- Model: BSJ18-ZPDA
- Brand: Alpina
- Capacity: 1.8 Liters
- Power: 700 Watt
- Voltage: 230 Volts
- Product Dimensions: 10.63"D x 11.81"W x 12.2"H
- Material: Aluminum (inner pot, steam basket), Plastic (main unit), Glass (lid)
- Special Features: Non-stick inner pot, automatic keep-warm function, cooking and heat control lights, steam basket.
- Product Care: Hand Wash (removable parts)
9. Warranty and Support
For warranty information or technical support, please refer to the warranty card included with your purchase or contact Alpina customer service. Keep your proof of purchase for any warranty claims.
