Even though the Zojirushi NS-ZCC Neuro Fuzzy rice cooker model has been on the market for many years, I never wrote a review for it. I do not know why I did not write a review, probably because there were other newer Zojirushi fuzzy logic rice cookers that captured my attention. Be that as it may, here is my review (many years too late) of the Zojirushi NS-ZCC Neuro Fuzzy rice cooker.
Zojirushi NS-ZCC Neuro Fuzzy Rice Cookers: Summary
The Zojirushi NS-ZCC10 Neuro Fuzzy rice cooker utilizes advanced fuzzy logic technology that allows the cooker to automatically adjust cooking time and temperature to produce perfect rice. A microchip monitors cooking conditions and makes adjustments to ensure properly cooked rice.
Menu options include various rice textures and types like white, brown, mixed, and porridge. A convenient delay timer and keep warm function allow flexible meal planning.
This rice cooker is made in Japan but includes an English manual. It comes with useful accessories like a measuring cup, spatula, and holder.
Two sizes are available: the 5.5-cup NS-ZCC10 and the 10-cup NS-ZCC18. Rice cooker capacity is measured by the included 180 ml measuring cup. The 5.5-cup model makes up to 10 cups of cooked rice, while the 10-cup model makes up to 20 cups of cooked rice (180 ml measuring cup size).
The NS-ZCC model rice cooker can cook white rice in regular, sushi, softer, or harder textures, as well as mixed rice, porridge, sweet rice, semi-brown rice, rinse-free rice, and quick cooking. The spherical inner pan distributes heat evenly for better cooking. An audio alert indicates when cooking is finished.
Other features include a detachable inner lid, LCD control panel, keep warm and extended keep warm settings, delay timer, and retractable power cord.
Those who have struggled cooking rice will find this cooker reliable. While pricier than basic models, the Zojirushi Neuro Fuzzy’s versatility, convenience and consistently delicious results make it a worthwhile investment for home cooks who want perfect rice with minimal effort (check price on Amazon – paid link).
How does the Zojirushi NS-ZCC Neuro Fuzzy rice cooker work?
The microcomputer technology in these Zojirushi NS-ZCC rice cookers adjusts cooking times and temperatures based on the type of rice, handles soaking and steaming, and offers multiple cooking functions. Unlike basic rice cookers that simply turn on and off based on temperature, the fuzzy logic of the microcomputer finely calibrates cooking to suit different varieties of rice.
For example, the Brown Rice setting extends preheating for better water absorption and uses lower heat for tender grains. The Sushi Rice option makes rice that is slightly firmer and easier to handle after processing. The Mixed Rice mode allows more time for seasonings to be absorbed and lowers the temperature to prevent boiling over. While not for oatmeal, the Porridge function cooks rice porridge at a lower temperature for a soft texture.
Does the Zojirushi NS-ZCC Neuro Fuzzy rice cooker have any problems?
The main flaw with the Zojirushi NS-ZCC rice cooker models is that they have an internal battery for the clock function that is difficult to replace. After a few years of use, the small battery will lose power, causing the cooker to lose track of the time when unplugged.
To replace the battery, you would have to unscrew the case, unlatch the circuit board, remove the old battery, and solder in a new one, which is a difficult process for most owners. While some may have the skills to attempt this DIY fix, for most it is unrealistic. Instead, the only option is an expensive repair through the manufacturer, just to replace a basic battery.
Given the hassle and cost of maintaining the clock function, these Zojirushi models would be better designed with a user-replaceable battery. For owners not inclined to take on difficult electronics repairs, the non-removable battery is a serious flaw, rendering the timer and clock unusable after the battery dies.
I feel that fuzzy logic rice cookers in this price range should not have such disposable built-in batteries that force owners to either replace the entire unit, pay for expensive servicing, or perform complex soldering repairs just to maintain basic functions.
Can you replace the inner cooking pot if it wears out?
Zojirushi supports their products long-term, so replacement pots will be available if ever needed. However, the replacement inner cooking bowls and parts for Zojirushi rice cookers are quite expensive. Eventually the non-stick surfaces wear out, and getting replacements directly from Zojirushi costs a lot. In fact, Zojirushi’s replacement part prices seem unreasonably high.
To protect the non-stick coating, focus on the smoothness of utensils rather than just the material. Metal or plastic utensils can damage the coating if not smooth enough. The included spatula is plastic with softly rounded edges to prevent scratching. Feel utensil edges before use and avoid any that aren’t perfectly smooth. Always handle the bowl gently, even with plastic or wood utensils.
How does the NS-ZCC compare to other Zojirushi rice cookers?
Though the NS-ZCC is an older model, it has remained in production for a long time and is still listed on Zojirushi’s website, indicating its continued success. However, it has some downsides compared to newer models.
The newer Zojirushi fuzzy logic rice cooker models, such as the NS-LGC05, have a sleek stainless steel exterior, unlike the white plastic exterior of the older NS-ZCC model. Additionally, the newer models have improved steam vents.
For those cooking mainly white rice, a cheaper or newer model may be preferable. However, for cooking many rice varieties and textures, the NS-ZCC is a top choice in its price range. Its longevity indicates its capabilities.
Though newer Zojirushi models (such as the Zojirushi NS-TSC10) have a steam function that the NS-ZCC lacks, the NS-ZCC still excels at cooking small and medium grain Japanese-style rice. I guess it was originally designed for the Japanese market.
The NS-ZCC may be less suitable for long grain rice; the mixed setting tends to produce better results than the regular setting. It also takes a very long time to cook brown rice, often resulting in an overly chewy, grainy texture. I do not know, but maybe choosing the soft setting might produce better long grain brown rice. I think that the NS-ZCC was not designed or tested for long grain rice varieties.
What are the benefits of the Zojirushi NS-ZCC Neuro Fuzzy rice cooker?
The Zojirushi NS-ZCC10 rice cooker offers a range of benefits. For example, the retractable cord stores neatly, and the cooker is easy to use and consistently produces excellent rice. When cooking starts and finishes, it plays a short tune, instead of just beeping like a broken record.
The larger NS-ZCC18 model is bulkier, so ensure you have cabinet space rather than leaving it on the counter. It frees up the stove top and fits easily in a cabinet for convenient storage and use. Cleanup involves handwashing the removable metal lid and bowl to dry thoroughly before storing.
With advanced technology that cooks rice perfectly each time, this durable cooker will last for years. While the Zojirushi NS-ZCC10 does take longer to cook rice when compared to cheaper digital rice cookers, the superior rice texture and flavor are worth the extra time.
Conclusion
The Zojirushi NS-ZCC Neuro Fuzzy rice cookers consistently produce fluffy, perfectly cooked rice. Users praise the ease of use, compact size, and effortless cleanup. For example, they describe the cooker as simple to operate, space-saving, and worth the cost.
Customers also appreciate the attractive design and quality construction. Nevertheless, the difficulty and cost involved with replacing the small internal battery that power the clock timer is the most significant drawback to the NS-ZCC Neuro Fuzzy rice cookers.
While the price is higher than cheap models, this cooker’s quality, performance, and longevity justify the investment for rice lovers. It delivers restaurant-quality rice at home without burnt rice sticking to the bottom of the pot, because you got busy doing something else and forget about the rice cooking on the stove. Click here for current price on Amazon (paid link).