Everyone knows that steamed food differs in its taste and beneficial properties from traditional food. All people who care about their health are advised to use steamed dishes. This food is especially relevant for children, pregnant and lactating women, as well as people who are concerned about diseases gastrointestinal tract. We will tell you how to choose a steamer in which you can cook many delicious and healthy dishes.
A steamer is a device necessary for preparing quality food.
Why buy a steamer
Previously, steamed dishes were prepared only for those people who simply needed it for health reasons, while other lucky people who did not have stomach problems preferred to cook food traditional way- boil, fry, bake. For some reason, steamed foods were considered tasteless, and many people even sympathized with the “unfortunates” who had to eat exclusively steam food. Nowadays, most housewives appreciate the steamer, and the device has taken pride of place in many kitchens. And not only because the cult of healthy eating and healthy image life has firmly penetrated our consciousness. A double boiler, preserving vitamins and microelements in products, cooks them quickly, and, most importantly, independently. And this frees the hands of housewives and gives them free time which they can spend as they wish. So, instead of spending several hours in the kitchen, a young mother loads three baskets of a steamer with fish, rice and vegetables, and goes for a walk with her child. Upon their return, a delicious and healthy lunch or dinner awaits them.
How the steamer works
In short, food in a steamer is cooked in a water bath. At the base of the device there is a special container for water. After turning on the steamer a heating element quickly brings water to a boil. Steam is generated, which is supplied to the bowls located below. Steam cooks food.
Uniform and quick cooking products occurs due to the fact that hot steam envelops the products from all sides. Another advantage of a double boiler is that it allows you to cook without using fat. This is very important for people who are trying to limit their fat intake.
How to choose the perfect steamer
The steamer with mechanical control is very light and easy to use.
If you decide to purchase a double boiler, you should decide on the characteristics that this device must meet so that it is convenient for you to use it.
Whichever steamer you choose, remember that only soft water should be poured into the device. If you use tap water, it is advisable to pass it through a filter. Hard water contains dissolved calcium and magnesium salts, which, when water boils, turn into steam and settle on the walls of the steamer during condensation. The device body is covered limescale, which must be removed periodically. It is better to do this by pouring a solution of table vinegar into the steamer and turning on the device in operating mode.
Expensive models of steamers have a reminder function about the need to clean the walls of the device. There are models in which the electronic display displays information about the number of cooking cycles before the next cleaning of the device. There are also models on sale that automatically dry the walls of the steamer after each cooking cycle.
Device control type
Steamers with electronic control are usually presented in the middle and high price categories
Most often, steamers have mechanical type management. They are easily recognized by the characteristic round handle on the front panel. To set the operating time of the steamer, just turn this knob.
Electromechanical is the simplest type of control, which has one advantage over electronic. To turn on the steamer, just one turn of the handle is enough. Electronic steamers are equipped with a button panel, which has a small display that displays the selected modes. It will take longer to understand the operating principle of such a steamer, but here you can more accurately set the cooking time. Housewives who have already used both types of steamers are advised to choose mechanical devices. Firstly, they are cheaper. Secondly, they break less often. Thirdly, the cooking time can be adjusted manually.
The electromechanical type of control is used in models of steamers in the middle and low price range. These are devices from Moulinex, Braun, Tefal, Atlanta, Binatone, Richards, Saturn, Viconte.
There are models in the middle and high price ranges with electronic control. Their price depends on the quality of the material from which the body and bowls are made, as well as on the number of additional functions. Some models of steamers from Siemens, Electrolux, Tefal, Scarlett, Vitek, AEG, De Dietrich, Gaggenau, Imperial, Kenwood, Kuppersbusch, Neff, Unit are equipped with electronic controls.
Device power
The cooking time in the double boiler depends on this parameter. The more bowls there are in the steamer you choose, the more power it should have. Typically the power of the device is from 400 to 1800 W. For a steamer with three baskets of 3-4 liters each, a power of 900-1200 W is sufficient. If you decide to buy a simple steamer with one bowl, a power of 400-500 W is enough to operate it.
Number and shape of steam baskets
An inexpensive steamer with one bowl is quite suitable for non- big family with average income
Most often, steamers have two or three baskets, but there are models with one bowl. In models with two or three bowls, you can cook several dishes at the same time. If you have big family, it is better to choose a steamer with three steam baskets. Be sure to check if there is a special bowl for rice.
Pay attention to the shape of the steam baskets. Most steamer models have baskets with different diameters bottom, which is very convenient for storing the device (it takes less space, since the baskets are inserted into one another). But baskets with different bottom diameters can be inconvenient to use, since it will not be possible to change the baskets during cooking if it turns out that in the lower part of the steamer the dish is almost ready, and in the upper part it is only half ready.
Bowls for steaming dishes are made of transparent heat-resistant plastic. You can monitor the cooking process.
Small bowls are very convenient for washing in dishwasher. They are very convenient to store, which is important if you have a small kitchen with a minimum number of cabinets. Large bowls are necessary for cooking large foods (fish or whole chicken, and oval bowls are better suited for these products than round ones).
Bowls can have a collapsible or non-removable bottom. If the bottom is removable, you can assemble one large bowl from two small bowls. The bottom can be made of of stainless steel or have a non-stick coating. The latter makes it much easier to clean the steamer and allows you to stew food in its own juice or marinade.
Steamers from Tefal, Bosch, Kenwood, Morphy Richards, Viconte, Unit, Binatone are equipped with collapsible bowls. At the same time, Tefal and Bosch steamers have a non-stick bottom.
Number of pallets
When choosing a steamer, be sure to find out how many trays are in the steamer model you choose. This is very important, because if the steamer has one tray (which is typical for most models), then steam condensate and juice from all products that are cooked in different bowls of the device flow into it. Consequently, the lower products will be soaked in the juice of the upper ones. Sometimes this is very good and sometimes not, depending on what foods are being cooked in your steamer at the same time.
It's better if the tray is deep. In this case, you do not have to turn off the steamer to pour out the accumulated liquid. A tray with a height of 1.5 cm is quite roomy, but it is better that the height be from 2 to 2.5 cm. By choosing a steamer with a deep tray, you will be sure that it will not overflow during the preparation of most dishes. Typically, dishes are cooked in a steamer for no longer than 60 minutes.
It is highly desirable that the tray have handles. This is especially true for trays that are not very deep - during the cooking process they will be filled almost to the brim, so it’s easy to get burned when pouring out water.
Water indicator and top-up option
If there is not enough water in the Kenwood mechanical steamer, you can add it without turning off the device
Some steamer models are equipped with an external water level indicator. This is very convenient because you can always check whether there is enough water in the device to form steam. After all, it is with the help of hot steam that dishes are prepared. The ability to add water during the cooking process is very important if you are using several tiers or steaming meat or fish. There may not be enough water in the pan for long-term operation of the device.
Water is added through a special funnel or through the hollow handles of the cooking basket. The ability to add water is not provided only in the cheapest models of steamers (Braun, Unit). Most devices are equipped with this function. These are steamers Tefal, Kenwood, Moulinex, Atlanta, Binatone, Saturn, Scarlett, Morphy Richards, Viconte, Vitek, Unit.
In expensive models, it warns about the need to add water to the steamer sound signal. There are also built-in steamers in which all processes are automated, including monitoring the water level and adding it. At the right time, purified water comes from the water supply, and the condensate is safely drained into the sewer.
Additional functions of the device
The TEFAL steamer with non-stick coating in all respects confirms the high reputation of its creators
In addition to the water level indicator and the ability to top it up during the cooking process, many models of steamers have the following additional functions:
- shutting off when there is no water in the steamer is a very important function, thanks to which the device is protected from overheating. Your comfort and safety when using a double boiler depends on it;
- delayed start – the ability to set the time after which the steamer will start working. A very useful feature if you need to prepare food by a certain time. In combination with the function of keeping the dish warm, the delayed start gives the housewife enormous opportunities;
- keeping the dish warm (Keep warm). This mode allows you not to turn off the steamer after finishing cooking. It can keep food warm for 12 hours. This is very convenient: you go for a walk, and when you return, a warm lunch will be waiting for you, even if you were late;
- “fast steam” is a function that allows you to speed up the cooking process as much as possible. Steam is generated very quickly - depending on the steamer model, in 30-40 seconds. Manufacturers claim that more vitamins are preserved this way. And the creators of the Vitamin+ steamer, Tefal specialists, claim that when this function is turned on, food cooks twice as fast;
- “recipes” or “automatic cooking” function. Available only in steamers with electronic control. The manufacturing company has stored several standard cooking recipes in the device’s memory. This is very convenient for those who do not know how to cook. It is enough to indicate the mass and product, and the steamer will independently select the desired program;
- steamer operating status indicator. This function is available in all models except the cheapest steamers from unknown Chinese manufacturers. It is clear that it is not recommended to buy these: it is not known what quality the plastic is in, what condition it is in electric wires;
- indicator of the time required to prepare the dish and a digital display showing the heating temperature. This function is only available in electronic steamers;
- sound alarm about the beginning and end of the cooking process.
The steamer built into the hob is convenient and practical
Different models of steamers are equipped differently. Thus, in addition to the required bowls for preparing food, supply kits usually include:
- container for side dishes, grid or stand for boiling eggs (steamers Tefal, Moulinex, Binatone, Unit, Saturn, Scarlett, Vigor, Vitek);
- a special bowl for cooking rice (steamers Moulinex, Tefal, Kenwood, Atlanta, Binatone, Braun, Saturn, Scarlett, Viconte, Vitek, Unit);
- a special grill for cooking entirely bulk products (Tefal steamer);
- trays for collecting condensate drops (Tefal, Kenwood, Saturn, Unit, Braun, Vitek);
- a container for bulk and liquid products and trays for collecting juice or fat that flows out of products during the cooking process (Vigor steamer);
- stand for steaming products that color other products (Braun steamer);
- probe that controls the temperature of the dish during the cooking process (can be purchased additionally at service center);
- a cookbook with recipes and recommendations for preparing dishes in this steamer (books are included with many steamers, but the device from Tefal has the most volume).
Other advantages of steamers
In many modern kitchen sets It is possible to install a built-in steamer
In addition to the fact that the steamer is capable of cooking several dishes at the same time, preserving beneficial features products, it can warm up a cold dish, pastry or bread.
Thanks to the steamer, cold meat dishes You can bring back the taste of freshly prepared. Cutlets and meat rolls will be juicy and very tasty.
In a double boiler you can not only cook food, but also defrost it. Thawed food retains moisture (unlike defrosting in microwave oven, where meat or fish dry out in some places).
In a double boiler you can quickly prepare yeast dough for pies, creating optimal conditions to lift it. You can also blanch vegetables, sterilize jars for home canning and dishes for baby food.
Choosing a steamer by price
Steamers of the same brand can be made in different variations, have different prices and various consumer indicators. Moreover, prices for steamers can differ several times.
Devices whose price is up to 1000 rubles are considered steamers in the low price range. They are suitable for preparing simple steamed dietary dishes. In an average-priced steamer (2-3 thousand rubles) you can cook meat and fish dishes, side dishes (porridge, pasta, omelet). They tend to have fairly large cooking containers, so you can cook a whole chicken or large fish in them.
Steamers in the high price range (3,000 rubles and above) are steamers and multicookers in which you can not only steam, but also stew and bake. Expensive steamers can cook up to three dishes at the same time. But remember: the more dishes you cook, the more time it will take.
Expensive steamers select the temperature and cooking time according to the parameters specified by the user: the product itself and its weight.
Price of this device depends on its brand and design. Dimensions, power and equipment affect the price to a lesser extent. On the Russian market there are models of tabletop steamers, the price of which ranges from 1000 to 6000 rubles. Models Moulinex, Kenwood, Scarlett, Unit can be purchased at prices up to 1.5 thousand rubles. Steamers from Bork, Panasonic, Tefal, Braun, Kenwood, Morphy Richards cost from 2 to 6 thousand rubles. Built-in steamers are much more expensive.
Summary
Steamer - reliable assistant in the kitchen of supporters of healthy eating and delicious food
Boiled and fried foods are devoid of vitamins and minerals, but this is not its main drawback. It can be hazardous to health, since, according to studies, long-term heat treatment of foods (especially frying) leads to the formation of carcinogens - substances that have an extremely negative impact on human health (according to some data, they cause cancer).
If you have never used a double boiler before, be sure to give it a try. There is no doubt that you will be satisfied. After all, using this device is extremely easy: pour some water, add food, turn on the timer - and that’s it, you’re free. Go about your business until the signal calls you to the kitchen when everything is ready. There is no need to stir or turn the food, and you can only watch the cooking out of idle curiosity. You can also defrost food in a double boiler and prepare it for canning.
In fact, with the help of a double boiler you can prepare delicious dishes, without a single drop of oil, that will please the most pampered gourmets. For baby food, a steamer is an indispensable thing; it is used to prepare the baby’s first complementary foods. Which steamer should you choose so that it does not disappoint and becomes a real assistant in the kitchen? We will tell you about this right now.
Types of steamers, advantages of each of them
The oldest type of double boiler is a kind of water bath in Russian cuisine. A lid with holes was placed on a pan of boiling water, onto which the food to be cooked was placed. “Manual” steamers can still be purchased today; they are very cheap and easy to use.
If you are not averse to purchasing a device that is more expensive and more interesting, then you should pay attention to electric steamers for your home.
These steamers differ in the way they are controlled. How to choose a double boiler correctly so that the first use does not become fatal? There are two types of control system, choose the most optimal one for yourself.
Mechanical control
Uncomplicated control panel. It has a standard power button and rotary levers for setting time and power. Very simple and intuitive, quite practical. The price for such a device is incredible. You can buy it within reason. This steamer perfectly copes with its main task - steaming without any extra hassle.
Electronic control
Electronically controlled steamers are not a cheap option. Display, touch control, built-in cooking programs, all this will allow you to cook correctly favorite dish, practically without interfering with the process. Your task is only to prepare the food, and the electronic steamer itself will calculate the cooking time, steam strength, and upon completion will give a signal that the dish is ready and turn off.
Steamer device: pay attention to details
Before choosing a device for your home, you should know what kind of item it is and what parts it consists of. This knowledge will help you navigate your choice easier. The electric steamer consists of 3 parts:
- The basic element is designed to heat water and convert it into steam. Base power above 1000 W - your food will be ready faster, more dishes can be cooked at the same time;
- A water reservoir, usually located just above the base. The deeper the tank, the less often you need to add water to it;
- The tray collects condensation that forms during cooking. There is most often one tray, but there may be several trays under each steam basket. You can choose a suitable tray using simple logic - if you plan to cook several dishes at once in a steamer, then it is better to take a device with a tray under each container, so that the juice from the upper baskets does not fall onto the food from the lower ones;
- A steam basket is an installation designed directly for placing products on it. Multiple basket settings per basket allow you to cook 2-3 dishes at the same time. Choose baskets of at least 1 liter, so that a family of 3 people can cook food in one turn on the appliance.
Steamer functionality
This is the most important point for potential buyers who are already on the threshold of the store and are about to purchase a steamer. A manufacturer can integrate more than 20 functions into a particular model, but the most valuable will be those that will bring you positive emotions, thanks to which the steamer will really become for you the necessary device. We list the most important characteristics that will be completely useful in a kitchen unit.
1. Function of adding water to the tank
If the water in the steamer suddenly evaporates, the device will automatically turn off and all modes will have to be set up again. But if the steamer has a function for adding water directly during the cooking process, you can safely add 100-200 ml at a time, the device will continue to cook your lunch without stopping.
2. Overheat protection
This function was given special attention in the program “ Test purchase» on channel 1. Safety comes first, especially in the kitchen. A steamer is a household appliance that long work gets very hot. If you don’t turn it off in time, then next time the steamer may refuse to work. It is worth choosing a steamer with protection against overheating, and then at the slightest risk it will turn off from the network.
3. Food heating function
The steamer cooked the dish a long time ago, but you missed the moment and now a cold lunch awaits you. This can be avoided by choosing a device with a food heating function. Having prepared the dish, the steamer will automatically turn on the food heating mode and keep the dish warm for a time that you determine yourself.
4. Delayed start
Need to steam vegetables for breakfast? No problem. A steamer with a delayed start function will give you the opportunity to choose exactly the time to start cooking, which you set yourself.
If you know that the boss is planning an important meeting today, then you can prepare a simple dish for your loved ones without even being at home. Just cut the potatoes and champignons into cubes in advance and add some salt to the appliance basket. Turn on the delayed start function, for example, at 17.00. And in just an hour, your family at home will be able to dine on delicious steamed potatoes and mushrooms.
5. Fast cooking function
This will probably be one of your most frequently used features. When you don't have enough time, preparing a meal quickly is not an easy task. Some steamers have a "fast steam" function. It doubles the cooking time by raising the temperature higher and producing more steam. It is important to remember here that water with this function will also evaporate faster, and it is worth adding it more often.
In conclusion, we note that the choice of the optimal steamer is largely influenced by the number of your family members.
For a large family, it is a good idea to choose a home steamer with three tiers, a large water tank and several trays. For a family of 2 people, or for one person, a steamer with 1-2 baskets, mechanical control is suitable, and the size of the tray does not matter here.
Choose a steamer that suits your tastes, and it doesn’t matter what brand is listed on the label - the main thing is that you enjoy the device and serve you well for many years.
The steamer is a special kitchen appliance, designed for preparing healthy dishes from fish, meat, vegetables and other products. Its main advantage is cooking without adding fat. Experts note another important fact - food in a double boiler never burns. The products are processed with steam, due to which all useful minerals, vitamins and other elements are preserved, and the percentage of animal fats and cholesterol is significantly reduced.
When choosing a high-quality double boiler, you need to take into account a number of points; if you do not take them into account, then it will turn out to be not entirely suitable or not at all suitable for a particular housewife.
The main ones among these factors are the following:
- Control method: mechanical or electronic. In the first case, the model will cost much less, but the cooking temperature will need to be set to manual mode. Electronic control makes the steamer more expensive, but it has much wider functionality. Usually there is a small display on the body, which indicates the main cooking parameters;
- Power – generally ranges from 800 to 2000 W. This parameter does not affect the quality of cooking, only the speed;
- The volume of the bowl is selected depending on the number of family members - for 3-4 people a 5-6 liter bowl will be enough;
- What is the device made of - the body and the bowl itself. In most cases, the case is plastic, however, you can also find models made of stainless steel. It is best if the lid is transparent - this will make it much easier to monitor the cooking process. The bowl is made from materials that can withstand high temperatures well;
- Design features - it is advisable to give preference to models that have a special funnel that allows you to add water directly during cooking;
- Device kit - the more items it includes, the more expensive the steamer will cost. In the most expensive models you can find recesses for boiling eggs, jars for storing spices, and so on;
- Availability of additional useful options - fast steam, delayed start, additional heating after cooking, timer;
- The company that produced the product. It is best to give preference famous brands– they will break less often.
In our rating of the best steamers, we have collected only the most reliable products that are perfect for most housewives. When compiling this top 10, we additionally took into account reviews from users and experts, value for money. We hope that after reading this review, it will be much easier for you to choose a model that is ideal for your requirements.
List of the best steam oven models of 2019
This is a small steamer that will fit perfectly into the interior of a small kitchen. The bowl volume is only 3.5 liters - this allows you to prepare about two medium servings of food. You will have to cook in it much more often, but the food will always be fresh. The power of the equipment is only 750 W, and the set includes two removable bowls made of heat-resistant plastic that has no foreign smell. It is controlled mechanically using appropriate levers. There is a work indicator.
The volume of the water tank is 0.7 liters, and it begins to boil approximately 10 minutes after starting the device. The operation timer is designed for one hour of continuous operation, there is an automatic shutdown system, and reliable protection. The device will not start working if the lid is open or there is no water in the container. The case has a high degree of thermal insulation, it will not heat up during operation, and is made of reliable plastic. The build quality is excellent, there are no extraneous squeaks even after several years of use.
Advantages:
- Reasonable cost;
- Durability;
- Almost silent;
- Automatic shutdown system.
Flaws:
- Mechanical control system;
- There is no funnel for adding water during operation;
- There is no thermostat or delayed start system.
This is enough modern design, which comes with two bowls for preparing various products, a tray for condensation, a special container for rice, buckwheat and other cereals, as well as a container for coloring products such as beets. The model has two tiers where direct cooking takes place, and their total volume is 6.2 liters; the cereal container holds about 2 liters.
The device has a timer for one hour with subsequent automatic shutdown, a “fast steam” mode and an operation indicator. There is a special sensor that ensures that the device turns off in case of water shortage. The body is made of plastic, the food containers are also plastic. When stored, the device takes up a minimum amount of free space. The bowls can be placed in the dishwasher; there is a niche for storing the power cable.
Advantages:
- Reliable assembly, which ensures the durability of the device;
- Attractive appearance;
- In the event of an emergency or when cooking is completed, the device emits a special sound signal;
- Volume bowl for cereals;
- Ease of management;
- Significant power.
Flaws:
- There are no recesses for boiling eggs;
- It will not be possible to add water during cooking;
- There is no delayed start function.
This is a very convenient and practical model, which comes with transparent bowls for food, which will allow you to observe the cooking process without interrupting it. This steamer is the first device with an electronic type of control - there is a small liquid crystal display and a timer, an operation indicator.
There are three tiers, so you can cook up to three dishes at the same time; the power of the device is 700 W. The body is made of stainless steel, the assembly is of high quality - there are no backlashes, even after several years of regular use the steamer will not make noise. extraneous sounds. The set includes a rice container and a removable grill.
Advantages:
- Electronic control system;
- Assembly reliability;
- Convenient and complete set;
- Reasonable cost;
- The set includes a recipe book.
Flaws:
- The cord is very short;
- Seals are not reliable everywhere - sometimes they lose their tightness;
- The display is not backlit.
This is a fairly compact, but at the same time, roomy model, with three levels for simultaneous preparation of various dishes. For cooking, there are mesh bowls or trays where you can place your favorite sauce or marinade, which will make the food even more delicious. The model is manufactured on the basis of the latest patented compact storage technology.
The control here is of a digital type, the equipment has a timer for one hour, after the end of cooking the device will automatically turn off, but if necessary it will maintain high temperature food. The assembly is of very high quality; all bowls, racks and other removable elements can be washed in the dishwasher. The water capacity has a volume of one and a half liters, which is enough to cook three dishes at the same time. If there is not enough water, the device will turn off on its own, emitting a sound signal.
Advantages:
- Works absolutely silently;
- Capacious pallets;
- Attractive appearance;
- Occupies a minimum free space;
- It quickly cooks even quite complex dishes.
Flaws:
- Heats water for a long time;
- The inner bowls are sometimes covered with a network of cracks;
- Unreliable plastic parts, which quickly fail;
- Despite electronic control, there is no display.
This is one of the best electronic steamers in the rating. It looks very nice and has small overall dimensions. The weight of the device is only 2.3 kg, although it has three transparent plastic bowls. You can also cook with a removable bottom. The set includes a special attachment with indentations for boiling eggs, and there is also a small container for spices.
The device has an original Flavou Booster function, which evenly distributes spices throughout the internal volume of the bowl, giving dishes a unique taste. Once cooking is complete, the appliance will beep. The control is electronic; there are a huge number of different functions and automatic operating modes that you can adjust yourself. There is a Keep Warm system that keeps food hot for a long time, and there is a funnel for adding water. The power of the device is 900 W, there is reliable protection against overheating.
Advantages:
- The kit includes a sufficient number of removable grilles for various types products;
- There is a liquid crystal display, a thermostat;
- The power cable is quite long;
- Insignificant mass;
- A large number of additional functions.
Flaws:
- There is no delayed start system;
- If food releases fat during cooking, it will drain into the lower tray.
This model has special technology Vita Steam, which allows you not only to save everything healthy vitamins, trace elements and minerals, but also cook with spices. Due to high level power, steam begins to form within 15 seconds after starting the cooking program. The model has three bowls, located one above the other, their total volume is 11 liters. They are isolated from each other due to partitions made of heat-resistant silicone, which does not allow odors to penetrate from one bowl to another, and are snapped into place using special retaining grooves.
The control is electronic with a convenient and intellectually understandable menu that anyone can quickly understand. There is a large tray to collect condensation and fat; water is added to a special retractable mechanism without pauses during the cooking process.
Advantages:
- Cooking areas well isolated from each other;
- Large volume of each container;
- Beautiful appearance and reliable assembly;
- High power level;
- There is a delayed start timer.
Flaws:
- The grease tray is not very convenient to remove for cleaning;
- Short power cord.
In the top 10 best steamers, this model was in 4th place, largely due to the presence of a large number of automatic cooking functions. There are three tiers in total with a total volume of bowls of 11 liters, the water tank has a volume of 1.2 liters, the device has automatic timer, designed for one hour, which will emit a corresponding signal after cooking is complete.
In addition, there is a corresponding indicator that lights up when there is not enough water in the tank. The body is made of non-marking plastic, the trays are made of food grade stainless steel, and the bowls are made of transparent heat-resistant plastic. The device takes up little space during storage. The set includes a special bowl for preparing various cereals. The power of the device is 2 kW, due to which steam begins to form almost instantly after turning on the cooking program.
Advantages:
- Very reliable assembly;
- There is a “quick steam” function;
- A good protection system against overheating, burnout, and so on.
Flaws:
- Not all automatic cooking functions work as stated by the manufacturer;
- Sometimes the rim of the top cover may crack;
- The rim is not convenient - it makes pouring water into the tank problematic.
This model takes an honorable third place in our top 10 best steamers due to a number of advantages over previously reviewed devices. It, like most of the devices included in our rating, is equipped with three independent cooking zones. There is a special intellectual development IQ STEAM, which independently determines which products need longer heat treatment, and accordingly, they begin to cook earlier than others. Thanks to this function, all dishes will be cooked at approximately the same time.
There are seven automatic programs, and they can be adjusted manually. The control here is electronic, there is a convenient liquid crystal display that allows you to change the cooking temperature, select optimal time and so on. When the dish is cooked, the device automatically switches to heating mode, keeping the food at the optimal temperature for up to 40 minutes. The device has reliable system safety, extending service life.
Advantages:
- The model is made of materials that are safe for human health and also look attractive;
- The design is beautiful and ergonomic;
- Availability of heating function;
- Reliability of the design.
Flaws:
- Not very convenient to wash;
- Large overall dimensions;
- At frequent use Containers may crack.
This is an inexpensive, but very high-quality and multifunctional steamer design, and it has everything you need to prepare a large number of different dishes. There are two tiers of food preparation with a total volume of 2.5 liters, which is quite enough for a small family. The controls are mechanical, but this does not affect the convenience at all; there is a timer with an automatic shut-off system. It is designed for 60 minutes, there is a “fast steam” function that allows you to warm up the device to the required temperature in just a few seconds.
The body is made of high-quality plastic with a good thermal insulation system, the bowls are also made of transparent plastic. During storage, it takes up minimal free space. The power of the product is 800 W, there is a special bowl for cooking cereals, grooves for boiling eggs, the steamer weighs little - about one and a half kilograms.
Advantages:
- Sturdy body;
- Attractive appearance;
- Takes up little space;
- Economical in terms of energy consumption;
- Acceptable price.
Flaws:
- There is no niche for storing the power cable;
- Some elements fade over time.
This is one of the newest models of steamers, which appeared on the Russian household appliances market relatively recently. In terms of all its main characteristics, this steamer is the best among all those presented in the review. It has only one tier, so you can cook only one dish in it. The control type here is electronic, there is a power indicator, touch display large sizes. The capacity is as much as 15 liters, although the external dimensions are not that large.
The device has a convection function, due to which you can prepare up to 15 different types of dishes. This feature will preserve the juiciness of meat, fish and other products due to the fact that heating is carried out as evenly as possible. The temperature is raised to one hundred degrees in just three minutes after starting; if necessary, you can even sterilize various items in the steamer - baby bottles, dishes, and so on.
Advantages:
- High build quality;
- Excellent capacity;
- Long service life;
- Convection function;
- Large capacity.
Flaws:
- Apart from the high price, nothing was found.
In conclusion, an interesting video
If you decide to purchase a steamer for the convenience of cooking, then the question arises about choosing a model, because the variety of steamers can lead any buyer into long-term thought. To decide which steamer model you should give preference to, we suggest that you work with us to understand the intricacies of choosing this kitchen device.
Main types of steamers
The very first model of a double boiler was a lid with many holes, known to our grandmothers, which, when placed on a pan filled with boiling water, created the effect of a water bath. It is still on sale today, however, more modern and easy-to-use models are more likely to attract your attention.
Depending on the control method, a home steamer can have either mechanical, automatic or electronic control. Let's study their differences, pros and cons during operation.
Steamers with mechanical controls
This is the simplest model of a double boiler. It does not require any special skills for its operation - you just need to be able to operate the rotary levers of the power and time counter. Quite practical and not expensive models, such steamers are in great demand and allow you to prepare healthy and tasty dishes without much hassle.
A variety of colors, several levels for placing products on them depending on the number of family members - all this makes steamers with mechanical control convenient, and the cost of purchasing them is minimal.
Electronic control panel
Choosing an electronically controlled steamer is more difficult. After all, such models have a higher cost, you will have to operate them at the acquaintance stage using the attached instructions, but there are many more options for preparing dishes.
The main thing when working with such a steamer is to prepare those products that are necessary for preparing the selected dish, and the steamer itself will be able to calculate the cooking time and the required strength of the steam jet, and at the end of the time it will signal that the dish is ready.
Features of the steamer: attention to detail
To choose the right steamer, you should understand which parts bear the load during its operation and take this into account when choosing a model.
An electric steamer has three main parts - a base element, a tank for water, a steam basket and a tray for the condensate that forms.
Basic element of a steamer
Function base element consists of heating the collected water and turning it into steam. Its power determines the speed at which dishes will be cooked. The standard power rating is 1000 W.
Storage tank
It is into the reservoir that water is collected, which is then used to turn it into steam. It is located slightly above the base of the steamer. The depth of the tank indicates the need to pour into it more water.
Steamer tray
After water passes from a liquid to a vapor state, it returns back to the liquid phase. A tray is used to collect the condensate formed. Different models may have one or several pallets, which are located under each basket.
Steam basket
With the help of this part, the products that are cooked in it are placed in the steamer. If you have several of these baskets, it becomes possible to prepare several dishes at the same time.
Functional features of the steamer
Among all the functions of steamers, the most popular ones are the ability to top up. required quantity water, protection from possible overheating, the ability to warm up food, delayed start time and accelerated cooking in a double boiler.
Let's look at them in more detail.
Adding water to the tank
In modern models of steamers, this function allows you to add water directly when preparing the product. This is convenient, because in most models of steam boilers, when the water from the reservoir is completely evaporated, the operation of the unit stops completely, and after replenishing water, the steam boiler must be adjusted again.
Protection against possible overheating
When cooking food for a particularly long time, the body of the appliance heats up significantly, which is dangerous from the point of view of household safety. The likelihood of a fire and the inconvenience of use make such a function as protection against overheating of the case convenient and useful.
Heating food
If the moment of finishing cooking was missed and the dish became cold, it is the ability to reheat the finished food that will make it possible to get hot food again. In this case, it is possible not only to reheat a cold dish, but also to maintain the temperature for a long time.
Possibility of delayed start
If you need to cook food at a given time, this function will come to the rescue. Its convenience can hardly be overestimated, since it allows you to receive ready-made food on time.
Faster cooking
Raising the temperature level by using the maximum power of the unit will allow you to significantly reduce the cooking time of your favorite dishes.
What exactly should you choose?
When you decide to buy and choose the right steamer, you should take into account all the properties and useful functions listed in our article that will be most relevant. If you are alone, then a double boiler with one or two tiers will be enough for cooking. If the family consists of 3-4 people, then you will need a model with the ability to prepare more food at the same time.
To better familiarize yourself with the offered range and models of steamers, you should also find out which models and why are considered the most popular today.
The most frequently purchased models of steamers
A steamer from the manufacturer Bork, model F700, according to consumer reviews, is considered one of the most popular and in demand.
The advantages of the model include its aesthetic appearance - nickel-plated surfaces look advantageous in any interior, and the ability to use a huge number of functions and electronic control will make it possible to prepare a large number of different dishes. This model of steamer will be a godsend for a large family, because it has three baskets, the total volume of food that can be cooked in it at a time is 8 liters.
The presence of additional functions (the ability to add water during cooking, delayed start, reheating previously prepared dishes, the ability to accelerate food preparation) makes using this steamer model especially pleasant.
The disadvantages include its rather high cost and significant dimensions.
Good steamer from Tefal, model VS 4003 is also one of the top three best-selling steamers.
The ability to monitor the cooking process, the convenient and aesthetic shape of the steamer, as well as additional functions and electronic controls make its use especially comfortable. Compact shape, classic design and the color design of the model in question allow it to fit organically into any kitchen interior. The volume of food prepared allows you to prepare meals for family members of three to four people.
Additional functions of the steamer make its use simpler and more comfortable. This includes the ability to add water while the steamer is operating, a sound signal at the end of cooking, and the ability to set the start time for cooking.
The cost of this model is already more affordable and accessible.
The Kenwood FS 620 steamer, being the most voluminous, makes it possible to cook a large number of dishes at the same time. Its purchase will be justified in a family of a large number of people.
However, the appearance of the steamer has somewhat deteriorated here, and its significant dimensions are not always convenient in a small kitchen.
In addition, there is no possibility of a delayed start. The cost of this model of steamer is affordable, which allows anyone to purchase it.
Having decided on your needs and weighed your own capabilities, based on the information from our article, you can make right choice, and the steamer will become a real helper in the kitchen.
Happy shopping!
In contact with
What is a steamer? This is a device that allows you to cook food through the action of steam. Products processed in this way retain maximum nutrients and represent perfect combination taste and quality. Of course, food cooked in a steamer takes some getting used to, since fried or baked ingredients are traditionally considered tastier. However, once you appreciate the benefits and incomparable natural taste of the products, you will certainly make this device yours. an indispensable assistant in the kitchen, which you will turn to more and more often. Let's try to figure out how to choose a double boiler for your home, and what criteria you should pay special attention to.
There are the following types of steamers.
Built-in and free-standing
Built-in models are very space-saving; as a rule, they are built into the countertop; only the bowls for placing vegetables will be visible. The control buttons will be located from the side. If the body is effectively covered with wood or plastic decor, access will be from below. A vessel intended for water must be mounted on the side. At all, similar option steamers for appearance similar to electric stove. The most expensive models even allow you to connect to a water supply, but in this case there is no need to fill the container manually.
Simple models of built-in steamers have three programs: defrosting, heating and, in fact, steaming itself. More advanced options have significantly expanded functionality - 5-10 or more programs.
Self-contained steamers are easier to install. Just choose appropriate place and plug the plug into the socket. Among the disadvantages of such options are the inconvenience associated with the possibility of dropping or damaging the device with an accidental movement, as well as the fact that the functionality of such models is most often limited.
With electronic or mechanical control
Mechanical control is realized by turning the switch for the amount of time needed to prepare dishes. Shutdown occurs automatically. The simplest option control provided in low-cost models.
Electronic control is more complicated. It provides work with touch panel and the buttons located on it, as well as the display. On the display you can see the set parameters regarding the time remaining until the end of cooking, temperature, remaining liquid in the tank and others.
The electronic control option for the steamer allows you to cook dishes almost automatically.
Criterias of choice
In order to make the right choice, it is necessary to evaluate which functional features Your priorities are:
- Power. Perhaps one of the key parameters. It largely depends on it how quickly the dishes will be prepared. Basically, this parameter varies from 600 to 2000 W.
- Number of operating modes. Standard option– these are 2-3 modes, for models with a higher price – 3-5 or more. In fact, three modes, as a rule, are enough to fully use the steamer without claims to advanced functionality. You can easily steam, defrost and reheat. You may absolutely not need all the other features (automatic switching on, heat stroke, etc.), so why overpay for them?
- Number of baskets and their size. If you have small family, 1-2 baskets will be enough for you, if the number of family members is more than three and, plus, you often and enjoy using a double boiler when cooking, choose models with three baskets. This will expand the capabilities, but will affect the speed. A rice bowl comes standard with any set, although in fact it is not only for him. With this container you can cook absolutely different dishes, cook soups, cereals, puddings, that is, those dishes that cannot be prepared in containers with perforations. Evaluate the size of such a bowl when choosing.
- Dimensions and number of pallets. There may be more than one pallet. Not every manufacturer offers such options, but they still exist. Users note the convenience of having a tray under each basket in cases where they do not want to mix odors. If there is only one tray, then there is no such possibility - everything that is cooked on the upper tier will inevitably flow through condensation to the lower one, to one degree or another. The height of the tray also matters; the minimum required is 2-2.5 cm. If the tray is smaller, then during the period of time required to prepare the dish (usually about an hour), you will need to drain the accumulated condensate more than once. Agree, this is not very convenient.
I would also like to note the additional functions of the steamer. Their availability and variety, as a rule, determine the price of the selected device.
Delayed start function allows you to automatically start the device in right time. It’s very convenient, you can prepare food in the morning, and by lunchtime everything will be prepared in the best possible way.
Ability to maintain temperature allows you to keep cooked foods warm for 10-13 hours.
So-called "steam boost" needed when it is necessary to speed up the heat treatment process. It is also believed that with this preparation, products retain more nutrients.
overheat protection The steamer is implemented through an automatic shutdown function in cases where the water runs out.
Sound signal about the end of the cooking process is convenient in all cases, there is no need to constantly approach the device.
Electronic models are usually equipped with functions automatic cooking. You can choose a program, and the steamer will do everything for you, quickly and efficiently.
Review of manufacturers
Bomann. Models from this manufacturer consist of three plastic baskets, while the body itself is metal. All components are easy to wash in a regular dishwasher, due to the fact that they fit together perfectly.
Mystery. Offers steamers with very bright and unusual design. Inexpensive options are made of plastic, premium options are made of stainless steel. The baskets have a volume of 1.5-2 liters and a power of about 1200 W. According to reviews, this allows you to cook food very quickly.
“I would like to leave a review about my favorite kitchen helper. Before purchasing, I thought for a long time and doubted it, since the choice of devices from this group is huge. I chose Mystery MFS-1304 - inexpensive, but functional. My favorite function is the delayed start; when I pack the groceries and go for a walk with the child, the process starts at the right time for me. When I arrive, everything is already ready. The controls are simple, you just select the time needed for cooking. By the way, the instructions indicate the recommended value for some products, but in practice it has to be increased. We use Mystery to cook fish, chicken, and steamed cutlets; my daughter really loves apples from the steamer. The price of 1300 completely justifies the purchase and the question of whether a double boiler is needed disappears by itself.”
Yulia, 27 years old.
Philips. The manufacturer, as always, is on top. He offers the most full list of all possible conveniences when handling equipment. Handles for the tray and bowl, built-in touch controls, a special container for seasonings, convenient holes for adding liquid, maximum degree of protection - this and much more will make the process of using the steamer convenient and easy.
Polaris. Offers inexpensive, but practical models. As a rule, such steamers have a mechanical control option, which does not detract from their advantages. The corrugated surface allows you to correctly distribute food over the entire area; you can prepare large portions of your favorite dishes quickly.
Supra. Convenient and practical models include three baskets, which, according to reviews, very conveniently fold into each other according to the matryoshka principle. The control can be electronic or mechanical, depending on the option chosen.
“SupraFSS-201 proved to me the truth that not all cheap things can be bad. I decided to somehow switch to healthy eating and as an experiment, purchase a double boiler for these purposes. I didn’t want to spend a lot of money, because it was unknown whether I would use it for a long time, so I bought inexpensive option. By appearance This model, to be honest, did not inspire confidence, but I still took a risk. A brochure with recipes was included. Cooking with it turned out to be surprisingly easy - 15-30 minutes, and everything is ready. It didn’t take up much space in my kitchen; it looks almost like a saucepan. Among the shortcomings, I would note the difficulty of washing, since there is no way to remove the cord, and the very thin plastic. I’m very afraid of dropping it; it will almost certainly crack from the impact.”
Elina, 30 years old.
Tefal. Offers many options - from inexpensive and practical to powerful, spacious premium models. Decide why you need a steamer, and the manufacturer will offer the most profitable and interesting option.
Conclusion
In diversity various options household appliances can get lost. If you are planning to purchase a steamer for the first time, and have never used this device before, perhaps it makes sense not to chase many functions, but to buy a simple and reliable thing. After appreciating all the advantages of steam cooking and familiarizing yourself with the functionality of more expensive steamers, you can choose the features that you lack and purchase a model of a different level.
Other users, as well as consultants in specialized stores, will help you with advice on purchasing a steamer, tell you how to choose it, what to consider, which functions may be necessary and which you can do without. Take care of your health and eat the right foods!
