I love the convenience of this Panasonic rice cooker . though I have not steam vegetable during the rice cooking cycle use the steamer insert that come with it , I think it be a useful feature . the steam escape in several place and there be a side reservoir that you need to empty after each use . the steam come out of the top do make quite a mess , so be sure to have some paper towel handy . I love the retractable cord . all the rice I have make have turn out great . I highly recommend this rice cooker .