Aroma ARC-1280B Digital Rice & Grain Multicooker

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Important Safeguards

Basic safety precautions should always be followed when using electrical appliances:

1. Read all instructions carefully before first use.
2. Do not touch hot surfaces; use handles or knobs.
3. Use only on a level, dry, and heat-resistant surface.
4. Do not immerse the power cord, plug, or appliance in water or any other liquid.
5. Close supervision is necessary when the appliance is used by or near children.
6. Unplug from the wall outlet when not in use and before cleaning. Allow the unit to cool completely before handling parts or cleaning.
7. Do not operate any appliance with a damaged power cord or plug, or after it malfunctions. Contact Aroma® customer service for examination, repair, or adjustment.
8. Use of accessory attachments not recommended by Aroma® Housewares may result in fire, electrical shock, or injury.
9. Do not use outdoors.
10. Do not let the cord touch hot surfaces or hang over the edge of a counter or table.
11. Do not place on or near a hot gas or electric burner or in a heated oven.
12. Do not use the appliance for other than its intended use.
13. Use extreme caution when moving the appliance containing hot liquids.
14. Do not touch, cover, or obstruct the steam vent, as it is extremely hot and may cause scalding.
15. Use only with a 120V AC power outlet.
16. Always unplug from the plug gripping area; never pull on the cord.
17. Operate the appliance on a separate electrical circuit to avoid overloading.
18. Ensure the exterior of the inner pot is completely dry prior to use.
19. Use extreme caution when opening the lid during or after cooking, as hot steam will escape.
20. Food should not be left in the inner pot with the Keep Warm function on for more than 12 hours.
21. To turn the appliance off, press the [Start/Power] button and safely remove the plug from the wall outlet.
22. To reduce the risk of electrical shock, cook only in the removable inner pot provided.
23. Do not wrap or tie the power cord around the appliance.
24. CAUTION: Intended for countertop use only.
25. WARNING: Spilled food can cause serious burns. Keep appliance and cord away from children. Never drape cord over edge of counter, use outlet below counter, or use with an extension cord.
26. Do not use the inner pot on a stovetop or burner to prevent damage or deformation.
27. CAUTION: Do not use for deep frying.
28. Do not immerse in water.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

Short Cord Instructions

A short power-supply cord is provided to reduce risks from children grabbing or tripping over a longer cord.

WARNING: Spilled food can cause serious burns. Keep appliance & cord away from children. NEVER drape cord over edge of counter, use outlet below counter, or use an extension cord.

Polarized Plug

This appliance has a polarized plug (one blade is wider than the other). To reduce the risk of electric shock, this plug is intended to fit into a polarized outlet only one way. If the plug does not fit fully into the outlet, reverse the plug. If it still does not fit, contact a qualified electrician. Do not attempt to modify the plug. If the supply cord is damaged, it must be replaced by the manufacturer, its service agent, or a similarly qualified person to avoid a hazard.

THIS APPLIANCE IS FOR HOUSEHOLD USE ONLY.

Parts Identification

• Corecoat™ Ceramic Coated Inner Pot
• Steam Tray
• Rice Measuring Cup
• Condensation Collector
• Steam Vent
• Lid Release Button
• Matte Finish Body
• Digital Display
• Function Indicator Lights
• Control Panel
• Serving Spatula & Soup Ladle

Digital Controls

Start / [Power]

Powers the cooker on and off or starts a selected function cycle.

[Plus] or [Minus]

Allows adjustment of time for Steam, Soup, Slow Cook, and Delay Timer.

Menu

Cycles through and selects one of the 7 specialized cooking functions: White Rice, Multigrain, Soup, Slow Cook, Steam, Cake, or Oatmeal.

Function Descriptions:

White Rice

Cooks fluffy, delicious white rice automatically.

Multigrain

Cooks a variety of grains like brown rice, barley, or couscous with ease.

Oatmeal

Prepares a quick and healthy breakfast without stirring or monitoring.

Steam

Easily steams healthy sides and main courses using the included steam tray.

Soup

Simmers favorite hot and hearty soups with an adjustable cook time of 2 to 8 hours.

Sauté-then-Simmer STS®

Sautés foods on high heat, then automatically switches to simmer mode once liquid is added. Ideal for pilaf, Spanish rice, chili, stir-fries, and more.

Slow Cook

Prepares homemade roasts, stews, and other slow-cooked favorites with an adjustable cook time of 2 to 10 hours.

Cake

Easily bakes cakes and other sweet batter-based treats.

Delay Timer

Allows food to be ready when needed, with preparation up to 15 hours in advance.

Warm / Cancel

Manually sets the cooker to Keep Warm mode or cancels a cycle.

Before First Use

1. Read all instructions and important safeguards.
2. Remove all packaging materials and check that all items have been received in good condition.
3. Tear up all plastic bags and dispose of them properly as they can pose a risk to children.
4. Remove the inner pot from the cooker and clean with warm, soapy water.
5. Wash all accessories in warm, soapy water.
6. Wipe the cooker's body clean with a damp cloth.
7. Dry all parts thoroughly then assemble for use.

To Clean

1. Remove the steam vent and inner lid when the cooker has completely cooled.
2. Remove and hand wash the inner pot and all accessories using warm, soapy water.
3. Remove the condensation collector and hand wash using warm, soapy water.
4. Remove and hand wash the inner lid using warm, soapy water, then wipe the inner surface of the lid with a damp cloth.
5. Wipe the cooker's body clean with a damp cloth.
6. Thoroughly dry the cooker's body and all accessories. Reassemble for next use.

How to Detach & Attach Inner Lid

To Detach Inner Lid:

1. Press in the release tab near the latch of the outer lid and allow the inner lid to lean forward.

2. Gently unhook the inner lid from its bottom slot and pull forward and up to remove.

To Attach Inner Lid:

1. To reattach, position inner lid face-down and move it backward to realign with the outer lid's bottom slot.

2. Pivot the lid back into place by its top and gently press in until the release tab clicks.

CAUTION: Do not use harsh abrasive cleaners, scouring pads, or products not considered safe for ceramic coatings. Hand washing the inner pot is recommended to lengthen its lifespan. Dishwasher washing may cause slight cosmetic discoloration but will not affect performance. Before placing the inner pot into the cooker, ensure it is dry and free of debris, as moisture may damage the cooker.

NOTE: Any other servicing should be performed by Aroma® Housewares. To remove the condensation collector, squeeze both sides and pull out towards you.

Troubleshooting

Rice is too dry/hard after cooking:

If rice is dry or hard/chewy when the cooker switches to Keep Warm, add ½ to 1 cup of water and stir thoroughly. Close the lid and select the Rice function again. When it switches to Keep Warm, open the lid and stir. Repeat as necessary until rice is soft and moist.

Rice is too moist/soggy after cooking:

If rice is still too moist or soggy, use the serving spatula to stir the rice, redistributing the bottom (moist) part and releasing excess moisture. Close the lid and allow the cooker to remain on Keep Warm mode for 10-30 minutes, stirring periodically to release excess moisture.

Error Code Chart:

NOTE: Food should not be left in the cooker on Keep Warm for more than 12 hours. For best results, rinse rice and grains before cooking. Avoid using a strainer or colander, as it may affect the final texture. For product support, contact Customer Service at 1-800-276-6286.

Rice & Grain Cooking

1. Measure rice or grain using the provided measuring cup, leveling it off for accuracy.
2. Rinse measured rice in a bowl of water for 10 seconds, drain, and repeat at least 2 times until water runs clear. Follow package instructions for other grains.
3. Add rinsed rice to the inner pot. For white or brown rice, fill with water to the line matching the number of cups of rice. For other grains, refer to the "Grain & Water Measurement Table" on page 12.
4. Place the inner pot into the cooker and close the lid securely.
5. Plug the power cord into an available 120V AC wall outlet.
6. Press [Start/Power] to turn the cooker on.
7. Press Menu to highlight White Rice or Multigrain, depending on the grain type. The illuminated dish icon confirms the selection.
8. Press [Start/Power] to begin cooking. The digital display will show a chasing pattern.
9. The digital display will count down the final 12 minutes of cook time.
10. Once the cycle completes, the cooker will beep and automatically switch to Keep Warm.
11. For best results, stir the grain with the serving spatula to distribute any remaining moisture.
12. When finished serving, press Warm/Cancel to cancel Keep Warm mode, then [Start/Power] to turn the cooker off.
13. Unplug the power cord from the power outlet.

CAUTION: During and after use, the inner pot will become extremely hot. Wear protective heat-resistant oven mitts or gloves. Ensure the inner pot is dry and free of debris before placing it in the cooker, as moisture may damage the cooker.

Delay Timer

1. Begin by following steps 1-6 of "Rice & Grains" or "Oatmeal" instructions.
2. Press Menu to highlight White Rice, Multigrain, or Oatmeal.
3. Press Delay Timer. Use [Plus] or [Minus] to set the delay time (1-15 hours for White Rice/Oatmeal, 2-15 hours for Multigrain).
4. The digital display will count down the set delay time.
5. Once the delay time elapses, a chasing pattern will appear, signifying the cooking cycle has begun.
6. The digital display will count down the final 12 minutes of cook time.
7. Once the cycle completes, the cooker will beep and automatically switch to Keep Warm.
8. For best results, stir the grain with the serving spatula.
9. When finished serving, press Warm/Cancel to cancel Keep Warm mode, then [Start/Power] to turn the cooker off.
10. Unplug the power cord from the power outlet.

NOTE: The delay timer includes cooking time. Food should not be left on Keep Warm for more than 12 hours. Multigrain may only be delayed for 2 hours or more due to longer cooking times. Refer to the "Grain & Water Measurement Table" for cooking times and ratios.

Oatmeal Cooking

1. Using the provided rice measuring cup, add oatmeal to the inner pot.
2. Fill the inner pot with water. For steel-cut oats, fill to the line matching the cups added. For rolled oats, use a 1:2 water-to-oat ratio.
3. Place the inner pot into the cooker and close the lid securely.
4. Plug into an available 120V AC outlet.
5. Press [Start/Power] to turn the cooker on.
6. Press Menu to cycle to Oatmeal. The illuminated dish icon confirms the selection.
7. Press [Start/Power] to begin cooking. The digital display will show a "chasing" pattern.
8. The digital display will count down the final 12 minutes of cook time.
9. Once the cycle completes, the cooker will beep and automatically switch to Keep Warm. The display will show the Keep Warm time starting from "0".
10. When finished serving, press Warm/Cancel to cancel Keep Warm mode, then [Start/Power] to turn the cooker off.
11. Unplug the power cord from the power outlet.

CAUTION: During and after use, the inner pot will become extremely hot. Wear protective heat-resistant oven mitts or gloves. Ensure the inner pot is dry and free of debris before placing it in the cooker, as moisture may damage the cooker.

Rice & Water Measurement Table

*Cups referenced are with the included rice measuring cup. (1 Rice Measuring Cup = ¾ U.S. Cup)

NOTE: Maximum Capacity: 10 cups of uncooked rice yields 20 cups of cooked rice. Minimum Capacity: 2 cups of uncooked white or brown rice. Cooking times are approximate and may be affected by altitude, humidity, and outside temperature. For best results, rinse rice and grains before cooking.

Grain & Water Measurement Table

*Cups referenced are with the included rice measuring cup. (1 Rice Measuring Cup = ¾ U.S. Cup)

NOTE: When cooking barley, use the Delay Timer for 4 hours with the Multigrain function for optimal flavor. Let barley or bulgur sit on Keep Warm for 10 minutes before serving. Add an additional ½ cup of water for softer grains.

Steam Cooking

1. Add 3 cups of water to the inner pot using the provided rice measuring cup.
2. Place the inner pot into the cooker.
3. Place desired food into the provided steam tray, lower it into the cooker, and close the lid securely.
4. Plug the power cord into an available 120V AC outlet.
5. Press [Start/Power] to turn the cooker on.
6. Press Menu to cycle to Steam. The illuminated dish icon confirms the selection. The digital display will show "5:00" for five minutes of steam time.
7. Use [Plus] or [Minus] to increase or decrease steam time by one-minute increments, up to 30 minutes. Refer to the "Meat & Vegetable Steaming Table" on page 14 for suggested times.
8. Once time is set, the cooker will beep and the dish icon indicator will stop flashing.
9. Once the water boils, the digital display will count down the set steam time.
10. After the selected steam time elapses, the cooker will beep and automatically switch to Keep Warm.
11. Using caution, check food for doneness. Carefully remove food to prevent overcooking. Wear a protective heat-resistant glove as the steam tray will be hot.
12. When finished serving, press Warm/Cancel to cancel Keep Warm mode, then [Start/Power] to turn the cooker off and unplug.

CAUTION: Do not attempt to cook more than 6 cups of uncooked rice when steaming and cooking simultaneously. Ensure the inner pot is dry and free of debris before placing it in the cooker, as moisture may damage the cooker. Food should not be left on Keep Warm for more than 12 hours.

Steam & Cook

1. To steam foods while cooking grains, follow steps 1-7 of "Rice & Grain" on page 8.
2. Place desired food into the steam tray. Open the lid with caution, lower the steam tray into the cooker, and close the lid securely.
3. Cook food according to the "Meat & Vegetable Steaming Table" on page 14.
4. After the suggested time, open the lid with caution (hot steam will escape) to check food for doneness.
5. If food is finished steaming, remove the steam tray while wearing a protective heat-resistant glove.
6. Close the lid securely and allow the cooking cycle to continue.
7. Once the cycle completes, the cooker will beep and automatically switch to Keep Warm.
8. When finished serving, press Warm/Cancel to cancel Keep Warm mode, then [Start/Power] to turn the cooker off and unplug.

Meat & Vegetable Steaming Tables

Meat Steaming Times:

Vegetable Steaming Times:

NOTE: Altitude, humidity, and outside temperature can affect cooking times. Steaming charts are for reference only; actual times may vary. Food should not be left on Keep Warm for more than 12 hours. Aroma® recommends using 3 cups of water when steaming.

Soup Cooking

1. Add desired ingredients to the inner pot.
2. Place the inner pot into the cooker and close the lid securely.
3. Plug the power cord into an available 120V AC wall outlet.
4. Press [Start/Power] to turn the cooker on.
5. Press Menu to cycle to Soup. The illuminated dish icon confirms the selection. The digital display will show "2:00" for 2 hours of cook time.
6. Use [Plus] or [Minus] to increase or decrease time by 1-hour increments, up to 8 hours.
7. The cooker will beep and the digital display will stop flashing once the time is set.
8. The cooker will begin heating. The digital display will count down from the input cook time after it reaches a boil.
9. Using caution, open the lid after contents boil and stir with a long-handled wooden or heat-safe utensil if desired.
10. Once the time elapses, the cooker will beep and automatically switch to Keep Warm.
11. When finished serving, press Warm/Cancel to cancel Keep Warm mode, then [Start/Power] to turn the cooker off.
12. Unplug the power cord from the power outlet.

CAUTION: Do not use the provided serving spatula to stir ingredients while using the Soup, Sauté-Then-Simmer STS®, or Slow Cook functions. Use a long-handled wooden or heat-safe utensil instead.

Sauté-then-Simmer STS®

1. Place the inner pot into the cooker.
2. Plug the power cord into an available 120V AC wall outlet.
3. Press [Start/Power] to turn the cooker on.
4. Press Sauté-then-Simmer STS®. The STS indicator will illuminate.
5. Add oil if desired for sautéing, close the lid securely, and allow the inner pot to preheat for 2-4 minutes.
6. Once preheated, add ingredients to sauté.
7. When finished sautéing, stir in any other desired ingredients including liquid and close the lid securely.
8. The cooker will automatically reduce heat and switch to simmer mode once liquids are added.
9. Once all liquid has evaporated, the cooker will beep and automatically switch to Keep Warm.
10. When finished serving, press Warm/Cancel to cancel Keep Warm mode, then [Start/Power] to turn the cooker off.
11. Unplug the power cord from the power outlet.

Slow Cook

1. Add desired ingredients to the inner pot.
2. Place the inner pot into the cooker and close the lid securely.
3. Plug the power cord into an available 120V AC wall outlet.
4. Press [Start/Power] to turn the cooker on.
5. Press Menu to cycle to Slow Cook. The illuminated dish icon confirms the selection. The digital display will show "2:00" for 2 hours of slow cook time.
6. Use [Minus] or [Plus] to increase or decrease slow cook time by one-hour increments, up to 10 hours. Press [Start/Power] to start cooking.
7. Once the time is set, the cooker will beep and the dish icon indicator will stop flashing.
8. The cooker will begin heating. The digital display will count down in one-minute increments from the input slow cook time.
9. Occasionally open the lid and stir ingredients with a long-handled wooden or heat-safe spoon if desired.
10. Once the time elapses, the cooker will beep and automatically switch to Keep Warm.
11. When finished serving, press Warm/Cancel to cancel Keep Warm mode, then [Start/Power] to turn the cooker off.
12. Unplug the power cord from the power outlet.

CAUTION: Do not use the provided serving spatula to stir ingredients while using the Soup, Sauté-Then-Simmer STS®, or Slow Cook functions. Use a long-handled wooden or heat-safe utensil instead.

NOTE: Slow cooking requires a small amount of liquid. Food should not be left on Keep Warm for more than 12 hours.

Cake Baking

1. Prepare one prepackaged cake mix according to instructions or prepare your own cake batter.
2. Spray the interior of the inner pot with nonstick cooking spray.
3. Pour the cake mixture into the inner pot.
4. Place the inner pot into the cooker and close the lid securely.
5. Plug the power cord into an available 120V AC wall outlet.
6. Press [Start/Power] to turn the cooker on.
7. Press Menu to cycle to Cake. The illuminated dish icon confirms the selection.
8. The digital display will show a "chasing" pattern, and towards the end, it will count down the final 12 minutes of cooking time.
9. Once the cycle completes, the cooker will beep and automatically switch to Keep Warm.
10. When finished serving, press Warm/Cancel to cancel Keep Warm mode, then [Start/Power] to turn the cooker off.
11. Unplug the power cord from the power outlet.

NOTE: Cooking time cannot be adjusted for the Cake function. Do not attempt to cook more than one package of cake mix (15.25 oz.) at a time.

Looking for Recipes?

Visit the Aroma® blog to browse their collection of delicious recipes, helpful how-to's, product FAQs, and more. Scan the QR code or visit AromaCo.com/recipes.

Notes

This section is for general notes.

Limited Warranty

Aroma Housewares Company warrants its products against defects in material and workmanship for one year from the provable date of purchase in the United States. Within this warranty period, Aroma Housewares Company will repair or replace, at its discretion, defective parts at no charge. Proof of purchase, such as the original dated sales receipt, is required for warranty repair or replacement. All liability is limited to the purchase price.

This warranty does not apply if the warranty period expired; the product has been modified by unauthorized service personnel; the defect was subject to abuse, improper use not conforming to manual instructions, or severe environmental conditions; neglect; or improper installation. The warranty also excludes defects due to Force Majeure events (flood, fire, lightning, earthquake, etc.), war, accessories, and replacement parts. The warranty is void if the product is used for other than single-family household use or subjected to voltages/waveforms other than specified (e.g., 120V ~ 60Hz).

Aroma's sole obligation is to replace the defective product with a working one or a similar model of equivalent value if the same model is unavailable. Refurbished items or items not purchased through an authorized retailer are not eligible for warranty claims. Transportation charges for repair or replacement must be borne by the purchaser.

This warranty grants specific legal rights that may vary by state and does not cover areas outside the United States.

NOTE: Proof of purchase is required for all warranty claims. Failure to register your product does not diminish your warranty rights. For product support, contact Aroma® Customer Service at 1-800-276-6286.

Service & Support

For warranty claims or service, contact Aroma® customer service toll-free at 1-800-276-6286 or email CustomerService@AromaCo.com. Customer service is available Monday-Friday, 8:30 am - 4:30 pm Pacific Time.

Visit www.AromaCo.com.

Aroma Housewares Company
6469 Flanders Drive, San Diego, CA 92121, U.S.A.