Overall Rating: 4.6/5
In this Yum Asia Panda Mini Rice Cooker review, we look at capacity, cooking programs, bowl quality, keep warm, and day to day usability so you can decide if this compact fuzzy logic cooker fits your kitchen. You will find key specs, a quick verdict, tips for best results, a comparison table, and a practical FAQ.
Quick verdict
The Panda is a mini rice cooker that punches above its size. It handles white, short grain, and brown rice with reliable fuzzy logic, adds porridge, steam, slow cook, and cake modes, and uses a high quality ceramic coated bowl that is easy to clean. If you cook for one to three people and want better texture than basic on-off cookers, this is a great pick. If you need larger batches or Wi-Fi automation, look higher up the range. Yum AsiaGood Food
Key specs
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 3.5 cups uncooked white rice, about 0.6 L rice capacity. Multicooker capacity up to 1.3 L. Designed for 1–3 people. |
| Programs | White or long grain, Short grain, Brown, Quick, plus Porridge, Steam, Slow Cook, Cake. |
| Inner bowl | 5 layer, 2 mm Ninja ceramic coated non-stick bowl. |
| Controls | Advanced fuzzy logic, 24 hour timer and keep warm. |
| Min batch | Can cook as little as 1/2 cup of rice accurately. |
| Model | Often listed as YUM-EN06 in manuals. |
Is the Panda Mini worth it in 2025
Yes if you want better texture and set-and-forget convenience in a small kitchen. The fuzzy logic and ceramic bowl are standouts at this size and price. If you often cook for four or more, or want induction or app control, consider larger models. Independent reviewers also rate Panda highly among mini cookers for its versatility. Good FoodExpert Reviews
How it cooks different grains
- Jasmine and basmati – Use White or Long grain. Rinse well, level the surface, and let it rest 5 to 10 minutes on Keep Warm before fluffing.
- Sushi rice and short grain – Use Short grain to balance stickiness with separate grains.
- Brown rice – Use Brown mode and allow the longer cycle. Soak 30 minutes for softer texture.
- Quick mode – Good for weeknights, but standard modes give the best flavor.
Beyond rice
- Porridge or oatmeal – Set Porridge and use a slightly lower fill than stovetop recipes to avoid boil-over.
- Steaming – Steam veg, dumplings, or fish in small portions.
- Slow cook – Soups and small stews up to the 1.3 L multicooker capacity.
- Cake – Simple yogurt or sponge cakes come out evenly when the bowl is greased and lined.
Tips for best results
- Rinse rice until water runs mostly clear, then level the surface.
- Measure with the included 180 ml cup and follow the Panda water lines.
- For 1/2 cup batches, stick to the manual ratios and avoid opening the lid.
- After cooking, let rice sit on Keep Warm for 5 to 10 minutes before fluffing.
- Clean the bowl with a soft sponge to protect the ceramic coating.
Pros
- Compact fuzzy logic cooker with reliably good texture
- High quality ceramic coated bowl that cleans easily
- Programs for white, short grain, and brown plus porridge, steam, slow cook, cake
- 24 hour keep warm and timer for flexible schedules
- Can cook as little as 1/2 cup of rice for singles or small portions
Cons
- Capacity tops out at 3.5 cups uncooked white rice
- No induction heating or app control at this size
- Slower than big multi cookers on brown rice cycles
Yum Asia Panda vs alternatives
| Model | Capacity & tech | Standout feature | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yum Asia Panda Mini | 3.5 cups, fuzzy logic | Ceramic coated 2 mm bowl, mini footprint | 1 to 3 people who want quality rice in small kitchens |
| Zojirushi NS-LGC05 | 3 cups, Micom fuzzy logic | Excellent short grain and mixed rice profiles | Small households that want Zojirushi presets |
| Cuckoo CR-0631F | 6 cups, Micom | Strong white rice performance, larger pot | Families who need more capacity |
| Aroma 3-Cup | 3 cups, basic cook-warm | Budget price, simple controls | Occasional rice with minimal features |
(Model names and capacities are typical market options to consider if Panda’s size or features do not fit.)
FAQ.
Can Panda keep rice warm safely for hours
Yes. It shifts to Keep Warm automatically and can hold rice at serving temperature for extended periods as designed by the manufacturer. Always follow food safety guidance and stir or refresh if holding a very long time.
How small a batch can it handle
As little as 1/2 cup white rice using the included cup and the correct water line. That is helpful for singles and side portions.
Is the ceramic coating durable
The 5 layer, 2 mm ceramic coated bowl is designed to resist sticking and clean easily. Use non-metal utensils and a soft sponge to extend its life.
