Rice Cooker Theory

The Rice Cooker Theory is a modern dating metaphor comparing relationship development to cooking rice in a rice cooker. It compares uncooked rice to a relationship that hasn’t cooked because the “cook” button (intentional action) was not activated.

The Rice Cooker Theory was invented and popularized on TikTok by Filipina creator Hannah Lei in a video explaining slow-burn relationships.

She also framed it as a playful formula:
R = P × I × ΔT - α
Where:
• R = Relationship
• P = Potential (chemistry)
• I = Intentional Action (confession)
• ΔT = Change in Temperature (response/effort)
• α = Assumption (miscommunication)

Metaphor Meaning:
The theory humorously suggests that relationships require consistent effort (heating), clear communication (no "sinaing" or lid issues), and intentional actions to "cook" successfully—otherwise, they "burn" or fail.

Without intentional action, a relationship remains in a pre-cooked state—analogous to rice placed in a cooker that was never switched on. Emotional heat accumulates, but transformation does not occur.

Conclusion:
Feelings don’t cook themselves.
Someone has to press the button.

“I thought we were a slow burn, but Rice Cooker Theory says I was just operating on assumptions.”

“Akala ko slowburn kami. Na-rice cooker theory ako beh!”

by rice cooker theorist December 20, 2025