This item is suitable for large batches of rice as well as small. I did a cup of rice and had no issues, even though the manual starts its measures at 2 cups. The only thing that was contrary to the guide was that the wild rice cooked alot faster (about 30 minutes) than stated. Then it sat on warm which caused it to burn on the bottom a bit as I hadnt realized it was done already. So you just have to make sure it doesnt sit on warm too long (after the rice is done cooking the unit auto switches to 'warm'). I noted first time using it that the metal inner pot doesnt sit snugly and I fiddled with it for quite awhile before I realized that it IS loose fitting until you put rice and water in. I havent tried steaming anything yet. overall, the unit looks nice and cleans up easy.