Advantages of steamers for home
Fried and baked dishes taste good, but you should remember about the dangers of such food. Steaming during cooking perfectly balances the taste and healthiness of the prepared products. There are many advantages of a kitchen appliance:
- the resulting food is dietary and healthy;
- preservation of most of the nutrients;
- speed and ease of preparation;
- the ability to sterilize dishes for infants at the same time as cooking;
- simple design combined with versatility;
- food does not burn (automatic shutdown is provided);
- possibility of preparing several dishes at the same time;
- simple and labor-intensive care - leftover steamed food does not stick to the baskets;
- safety during operation (no electromagnetic waves compared to microwave ovens);
- Steamed dishes are easy to prepare and do not require any special skills;
- The delay function in some models makes it possible to automatically start the cooking process at a convenient time;
- does not require constant presence in the kitchen and monitoring what is happening on the stove.
It processes foods and dishes using steam, preserving maximum vitamins and minerals.
Rating of high-quality steamers for the home in 2021.
Blender-steamer Philips Avent scf875
Options | Characteristics |
Bowl | Number of tiers -1; Volume - 0.72 l Bowl material - plastic |
Control type | Mechanical |
Indication | Sound signal |
Power | 400 W |
Cord length | 0.7 m |
Housing material | plastic |
Weight | 2.47 kg |
Country of manufacture: China. A device with two functions – a blender and a steamer. Suitable for preparing complementary foods for children. The unique technology allows you to process products with steam from top to bottom. Cooked food does not lose its nutritional properties. The package includes a book with recipes for baby food. You can purchase a steamer for 9,947 rubles.
Blender-steamer Philips Avent scf875
Advantages:
- The presence of two functions - a steamer for cooking and a blender for chopping;
- Helping mothers prepare complementary foods;
- Fast food preparation;
- Easy to clean;
- Compact.
Flaws:
- During operation, the inside of the steamer lid becomes painted with brightly colored products;
- Water from steam accumulates in the filter, which is difficult to drain. As a result, water gets into the food;
- After use, corrosion appears on the metal parts of the handle.
Steamer Bosch Serie 8 cdg 634 bs1/bb1
Options | Characteristics |
Steamer type | Built-in |
Control mechanism | Electronic |
Power | 1900 W |
Housing material | Stainless steel |
Additional functions | Autocooking for 20 recipes |
Dimensions | WxHxD 59.5×45.5×54.8 cm |
Country of origin: France. Built-in steamer for the kitchen. The device is designed for cooking, heating and defrosting food. There are additional automatic functions: descaling, cleaning, system cooling. There is an indication indicating the end of water in the tank. Average price: 50,876 rubles.
Steamer Bosch Serie 8 cdg 634 bs1/bb1
Advantages:
- Electronic control;
- Aesthetic;
- Color display;
- Equipped with child lock;
- Easy to operate;
- Device with automatic functionality.
Flaws:
- Expensive;
- Short power cord.
Steamer Braun fs 3000
Options | Characteristics |
Bowl volume | 3.1 l |
Number of tiers | 2 |
Control type | Mechanical |
Power | 850W |
Housing material | plastic |
Country of manufacture: China. The steamer consists of two tiers made of transparent plastic. There are opaque bowls inside, complete with a bowl for rice. The timer program lasts 60 minutes. Average price: 4791 rubles.
Steamer Braun fs 3000
Advantages:
- Dishwasher safe;
- When cooking two dishes, the smells do not mix;
- Each bowl has a tray for collecting condensate;
- There is a plastic container for coloring products;
- Compact storage.
Flaws:
- No display;
- When purchasing a steamer, there is a distinct smell of plastic.
Steamer Tefal vc1451
Options | Characteristics |
Number of tiers | 2 |
Bowl volume | 6 l |
Control type | Mechanical |
Housing material | Plastic |
Steam basket material | Stainless steel |
Power | 900 W |
Brand country France. Steamer with built-in timer mechanism for 60 minutes. When cooking is complete, a warning sound is emitted. The set includes two stainless steel steam baskets with a rice bowl. You can add water during cooking. Average price: 4,710 rubles.
Steamer Tefal vc1451
Advantages:
- There is a water level indicator;
- Compact storage;
- The removable parts of the steamer can be washed in the dishwasher;
- There is no plastic smell.
Flaws:
- No display;
- No heating;
- There is a quiet sound signaling the end of cooking;
- There is no app with recipes.
Steamer Endeveer Vita 170/171
Options | Characteristics |
Number of tiers | 3 |
Total volume of bowls | 11 l |
Power | 1000 W |
Control type | Mechanical |
Housing material | Plastic |
Steam basket material | Transparent plastic |
Dimensions | WxHxD 33x42x23.5 cm |
Country of manufacture: China. The total volume of the device is 11 liters, allowing you to prepare food for a larger number of people. During operation, you can add water into special holes. A convenient, built-in indicator determines the liquid level in the device. The auto-shut-off function by timer helps protect the steamer from premature breakdown. You can buy an electronic device for 2,350 rubles.
Steamer Endeveer Vita 170/171
Advantages:
- In the absence of water, automatic shutdown is triggered;
- Dishwasher safe;
- With “top up water” function;
- Non-toxic plastic;
- Heats water quickly;
- Compact storage.
Flaws:
- During operation, the numbers on the timer are erased;
- There is no handle to remove the tray;
- There is no sound notification to indicate the end of cooking.
Steamer Home Element he-fs 1500
Options | Characteristics |
Number of tiers | 2 |
Control type | Mechanical |
Power | 400 W |
Housing material | Plastic |
Steam basket material | Transparent plastic |
Steam basket capacity | 2.5 l |
Country of manufacture: China. One of the popular models chosen by buyers. Budget steamer with two tiers for cooking, with a built-in mechanical timer. The device is suitable for preparing dietary dishes. Average cost of a steamer: 850 rubles.
Steamer Home Element he-fs 1500
Advantages:
- Low price;
- Odorless plastic;
- The steamer is easy to use;
- The housing is easy to disassemble and clean.
Flaws:
- It takes a lot of time to heat up and cook food;
- Small size timer switching relay;
- Steam baskets do not hold enough food to cook;
- During cooking, you must ensure that the liquid does not boil out of the steamer.
Blender-steamer Kitfort kt-2305
Options | Characteristics |
Number of tiers | One basket |
Power | 400 W |
Housing material | Plastic |
Steam basket material | Transparent plastic |
Country of manufacture: China. A steamer with a blender function allows you to grind food to a puree consistency. The device is ideal for mothers who are preparing their baby’s first complementary foods. The unit is necessary for people who require special steam power. The unit is mechanically controlled and equipped with one basket. Average cost of the device: 3990 rubles.
Blender-steamer Kitfort kt-2305
Advantages:
- The results are tasty and nutritious dishes;
- The device is ideal for preparing complementary foods for infants;
- Grinds products efficiently;
- Long cord for supplying electricity;
- Affordable price;
- Thanks to the presence of suction cups, the device is clearly fixed on the table surface.
Flaws:
- No signal indicating the end of cooking.
Blender-steamer Happy Baby Fusion
Options | Characteristics |
Number of steam baskets | 1 |
Bowl volume | 400 ml |
Material | Plastic |
Weight | 1.513 kg |
Country of manufacture: China. According to customers, the best steamer with a blender function. Suitable for preparing the first complementary foods for children. The steamer quickly and deliciously steams vegetables, meat, and fruits. If necessary, the products can be chopped immediately. The package includes a double cutting attachment for making purees. Device with overheat protection function. When the water boils away, the unit automatically turns off. In addition, the parts must be properly secured before use, after which the steamer will begin cooking. Average price of the device: 3890 rubles.
Blender-steamer Happy Baby Fusion
Advantages:
- Built-in function – protection against overheating;
- The steamer is not difficult to use;
- The device is suitable for preparing the first complementary foods for children;
- High quality plastic;
- Easy to wash and clean;
- Doesn't take up much space;
- Stylish design.
Flaws:
- According to customer reviews, the steamer does not cope with chopping meat products.
Steamer Centek ct-1457
Options | Characteristics |
Number of steam baskets | 3 |
Control type | Mechanical |
Power | 800 W |
Housing material | Stainless steel |
Steam basket material | Transparent plastic |
Country of manufacture: China. The steamer has a capacity of 9 liters. The unit is equipped with three steam baskets and a rice bowl. The device body is made of stainless steel. The steamer timer runs for 60 minutes. The end of work is accompanied by a sound signal. Average cost of a steamer: 2,014 rubles.
Steamer Centek ct-1457
Advantages:
- Convenient functionality;
- There are holes for adding water;
- Fast steam supply;
- Compact storage;
- Acceptable price;
- There is a window through which you can see the remaining amount of water in the tank.
Flaws:
- Plastic bowls cannot be interchanged. Each basket must be strictly in its place.
Blender-steamer Beaba Babycook Duo
Options | Characteristics |
Number of steam baskets | 1 |
Power | 800 W |
Housing material | Plastic |
Basket material | Transparent plastic |
Basket volume | 1.1 l |
Dimensions | WxHxD 38x24x14 cm |
Additional accessories | chopper; spatula for removing the steam basket; descaling indicator |
Country of origin: France. A convenient steamer with two plastic steam baskets will prepare a complete meal for the family. At the end of cooking, the device will warn you with a sound signal that the dish is ready. The steamer is equipped with a warning signal that will sound if there is not enough liquid in the baskets. There is an additional function - a blender. After cooking, if necessary, the products can be crushed and pureed. The steamer has a power indicator. Additionally, the kit includes a food chopper and a spatula for removing baskets.
Blender-steamer Beaba Babycook Duo
Advantages:
- Cooks quickly;
- Easy to clean;
- Beautiful design.
Flaws:
- There are no holes for adding water;
- Rice bowl missing;
- There are no recesses for boiling eggs;
- There is no automatic shutdown when there is no liquid.
What is the device
The best steamer is multifunctional, easy to clean and reliable. Structurally, all models are similar. At the base there is a base, which is the main working part with the electrical filling contained in it. It has an outlet for connecting to the mains. There is also a container in which, under the influence of a heating element, water is brought to a boil - this is a source of steam production. Control panels can be located on the front or side.
For healthy eating and simple cooking, this is the most indispensable device.
Steam baskets are located on top of the base. The containers have a perforated bottom, which is where the cooking process takes place. Their number varies from two to three, and they are located on top of each other. The upper basket is closed with a lid. Each basket has a tray that collects condensation and juice.
The main purpose of such a machine is to prepare healthy and tasty food.
For what purpose is a steamer needed?
A steam cooking unit is not only a healthy meal, but also an opportunity to prepare a complete meal in one sitting. Foods that require different cooking times will not be a problem either. One important rule must be followed. For long-cooking dishes, use the lower basket.
Initially, the device was used only by people who have digestive problems.
In addition to the cooking itself, steamers have an excellent function of heating ready-made delicious dishes. No need to use a gas stove or microwave. If there is enough water, the desired temperature of the yummy can be maintained for several hours if guests come to you, and the feast has moved into a long phase of pleasant gatherings with gradual tasting of culinary masterpieces.
Using steam, this device processes products in such a way that they become as healthy as possible.
How does a steamer work?
When a kitchen appliance is plugged in, the water in the tank is heated to boiling point, followed by the formation of steam. The presence of special holes allows it to rise up to the food compartments. With the help of a special ring-shaped element, the movement of steam masses is accelerated, which significantly saves energy.
The base itself houses several important components of the structure, and it itself represents the fastening part.
The housing is equipped with a liquid level indicator. Some models also have a sound that reminds you to add water. Pallets play an important role in the work. They collect condensate released during operation, preventing it from entering the generator.
You cannot use or turn on the mechanism if there is no water in it, or if it is at a minimum level.
Important! As many bowls as the machine has, there should be as many trays as possible, so as not to mix the smells of dishes being prepared at the same time.
The layout of a kitchen appliance is standard for most models and may differ only in the different configurations of additional elements.
Many steamers have an automatic notification that the water level is close to critical.
Popular models
The list of popular models differs from the rating. It does not take into account the opinions of experts.
Electronically controlled
The difference between this type of control is that there is a processor and several programs are embedded in it for automatically preparing products. Sensors monitor compliance with cooking parameters.
Morphy Richards IntelliSteam 470006
The difference from many models is that all containers are completely metal. The volume of each basket is 1.6 liters, but not all of them can be used at once.
Characteristics:
- 5 containers, vertical arrangement;
- recesses for eggs;
- electronic control, display;
- 1600 W power;
- timer;
- water level protection.
Pros:
- metal containers;
- cooking up to 18 eggs at a time;
- electronic control.
Minuses:
- The lid rattles when steam is generated.
Russell Hobbs 23560-56
The device has the ability to add water during operation. The body is made of metal, but the containers are made of transparent plastic.
Characteristics:
- 3 tiers of containers with a bowl for rice and a container for herbs;
- power 1000 W;
- electronic control with display Russell Hobbs 23560-56.
; - water level indicator with auto shut-off.
Pros:
- easy to clean;
- quality of plastic.
Minuses:
- The bottom of the container cannot be removed.
With mechanical control
Mechanical control is simple, anyone can handle it. The difference from the electronic one is that the device is simpler, it does not have sensors or a processor, it is an inexpensive version of the device.
Tefal VC 1301 Minicompact
Tefal VC 1301 Minicompact.
From the name it is clear that this device differs from others in its compactness:
- three containers of different sizes are nested inside each other during storage, reducing their dimensions;
- the bottom container has a volume of 3 liters, the rest are 2 liters each;
- designed for a family of 2-3 people;
- there are quite a lot of holes in the containers, which allow steam to pass through well and cook food evenly;
- On the plastic body there is a hint with the cooking time and a mark of the desired water level.
Tefal VC 1006 Ultra Compact
Despite the name, when assembled it is a large device with a container capacity of 9 liters. In the assembled version, the containers are placed inside each other. You can add water while the steamer is operating.
Tefal VC 1006 Ultra Compact.
Equipment:
- 900 W of power is enough for 3 tiers of containers;
- 3 containers plus for rice and cereals;
- timer with sound notification about the end of the process and auto shutdown;
- water level indicator.
Pros:
- containers are dishwasher safe;
- adding water during operation;
- additional containers for cereals.
Minuses:
- no heating.
How to choose the right professional steamer
When choosing appliances for your home kitchen, you should be guided by several aspects when deciding how to choose a double boiler:
- Design. If the unit is intended to be used regularly, the shades should be universal with minimal decor and maximum functionality. Small and compact will be convenient for occasional use. Large kitchens with a certain style require a corresponding style of steamer. If there is a limitation in space, then pay attention to the transparent, weightless material of the case.
- Technical specifications. This component directly depends on the number of people who will need to be fed. A spacious model with high power for a large family.
- Control type. Process control modules can be mechanical or electronic. And here it all depends on your own preferences. The mechanics are simpler; the electronic type requires care when typing button combinations.
- Water level control. Constantly immersing the heater in water is a condition for proper operation. If there is a lack of it, an automatic shutdown occurs. The presence of a hole for adding water and a warning signal about this is a plus to the design.
- Equipment. Two spacious trays will be sufficient for large families. But if you plan to cook several dishes at the same time, then a third basket is needed. There are models with fans built into the lid to speed up the process, but they cost slightly more.
- Operating modes. Standard options are designed for 3 modes. At a higher price category their number reaches five.
The control panel, depending on the type of steamer itself, can be touch-sensitive or push-button.
Important! Units with electronic control have an interesting and useful delay function, which allows you to program a start at a convenient time, even if the cook is not at home.
Types of devices by type of control
You will have to choose between electric, built-in and compact devices, which in turn have their own types of control.
The upper part of the steamer allows you to accommodate a large number of processed products.
Additional Information! Compact models look like saucepans with grates and perforated inserts, which allow them to be used on electric and gas stoves.
Mechanical
On the front panels of such devices there is a round knob designed to set the operating time. To do this, just turn it to the required number.
The simplest control method, which does not require additional study of instructions and operating books, is mechanics.
Electronic
A characteristic feature is a scoreboard with a button panel. It takes more time to become familiar with the modes, but this will more than pay for the accuracy of the cooking modes.
This mechanism implies a large number of additional functions.
Electromechanical is an average option, characterized by simplicity (to turn it off, just turn the knob).
Power
The parameter affects the cooking speed. A large number of baskets means an increase in power. The average for three 4-liter containers is 1200 W. For one bowl, 500 W will be enough.
When choosing a steamer, you should keep in mind that the presence of an additional function to notify you of a lack of water will be a pleasant bonus.
Number and shape of steam bowls (baskets)
Most models contain 2-3 containers. Different bottom diameters allow the device to be folded compactly for closed storage (but they cannot be swapped during operation). Small ones can be washed in dishwashers. The presence of a non-stick bottom makes cleaning much easier.
Thanks to a special indicator, you can not only receive an alert about insufficient liquid level, but also find out the volume of water inside.
Number of pallets
The presence of only one tray involves collecting liquids from all prepared products (the lower ones will be soaked in the entire bouquet of upper dishes). Capacious pallets prevent overfilling during operation. Choose models with handles to prevent burning your hands when handling.
For optimal operation of the mechanism, the container must be filled with water completely or halfway.
Water indicator and refilling
An extremely convenient function that allows you to control the amount of water with the ability to top it up. This is important and convenient, since there may not be enough liquid for dishes that take a long time to cook. A sound or light signal is intended to warn when the funnel or hollow handles of the baskets are topped up.
This function implies the presence of a small hole on the side where you can pour water.
Special protection
It consists of turning off the unit if water is not added on time. In this case, the heating device is protected, and this directly contributes to safety. The operating status indicator will warn you that the steamer is ready for operation when connected to the network.
A nice (even necessary) bonus is the presence of special protective linings.
Attachments and add-ons
In stores you can find different configurations in addition to the basic ones:
- containers for side dishes, stands for boiling eggs;
- gratings for bulk products;
- rice bowl;
- probes for monitoring the temperature of products;
- stands for products with strong natural dyes;
- culinary recipes.
Almost any steamer comes with containers and other accessories.
Additional functions
Which steamers are better? Many models have advanced features:
- delayed start – a specific time for starting work is set (and maintaining the temperature of the dish for the required time up to 12 hours);
- “fast steam” – maximum acceleration of the cooking process;
- “recipes” – manufacturers store standard recipes in the memory of electronic steamers;
- indication of cooking time and temperature in baskets;
- sound notification about completion of work.
In addition to the basic operating parameters, steamers can surprise with additions.
How to choose the perfect steamer
Stores offer such a variety of models that even an experienced housewife will be confused. The criteria for evaluating steamers will help you avoid mistakes when choosing and buy the best option.
Control type
The cost of the device depends on this parameter, but not the time and quality of preparation. Steamers are available with two control systems: electronic and mechanical. The first one provides more options:
- presence of a timer;
- delayed start;
- maintaining the temperature at a given level;
- defrost function;
- equipment of the device with a catalog of recipes for automatic preparation of various dishes;
- use of steam boost;
- monitoring the availability of water;
- protection from children.
For expensive models, all information is shown on the display. It displays the selected mode, remaining water, time until the end of cooking, etc.
The capabilities of mechanically controlled steamers are more modest, but their cost is also lower. In terms of reliability, they are significantly superior to electronic models, since there is nothing to break. The cooking time is set by simply turning the control knob to the appropriate scale mark.
Power
This indicator determines the cooking time. The more power, the faster they will be ready. But as practice shows, even doubling this parameter will save only 5 minutes of time, and electricity bills will increase significantly. For normal operation of a steamer with one bowl, 0.4-0.5 kW is enough. If you like a model with three bowls with a capacity of 3-4 liters, choose the option with a power of 0.9-1.2 kW.
Number and shape of steam baskets
The majority of models are available with 2 or 3 baskets, but there are also ones with one. For a large family, it is preferable to choose the option with 3 bowls, so that you can cook several dishes at once. When purchasing, you should make sure that there is a special basket for cereals.
Most steamers are equipped with baskets with different bottom diameters so that they can be nested inside each other during storage. However, containers cannot be swapped if the dish at the bottom is already ready, but at the top has not yet reached its proper condition. In this case, identical bowls are preferable. Smaller baskets are easier to store and can be washed in the dishwasher. If you plan to cook whole chicken or fish, it is better to choose larger bowls, preferably oval-shaped with handles.
The baskets are made of heat-resistant transparent and colored plastic or stainless steel. Metal is more reliable, hygienic and lasts longer, but transparent walls allow you to observe the process. But when the plastic fogs up, it will be impossible to see anything. Small steamers are equipped with a glass bowl, but if it breaks, you won't be able to find a replacement.
Number of pallets
Usually a common tray is used in which liquid and juice from food accumulate. Sometimes this mixture is used as a sauce. When cooking several dishes at the same time in such a steamer, the lower products will be soaked in the juice of the upper ones. If this is unacceptable, you need to choose an option in which a tray is installed under each bowl. The cost of the steamer will naturally increase, but the smells and tastes will not mix.
To prevent condensate from overflowing from the tray, which can lead to damage to the device, the height of the sides should be 2.5 cm. This depth is sufficient for continuous operation of the steamer for an hour, without stopping to drain the liquid. It’s good if the tray has handles for easy removal.
Water level indicator and refilling
The need for replenishment occurs when the dish is cooked for more than an hour. To control the liquid level, a special indicator is installed in the device, which not all steamers are equipped with. Water is poured through a funnel-shaped hole or hollow handle. When choosing a model with this function, keep in mind that if the tray capacity is small, the steamer still needs to be turned off and the bowls removed to drain the condensate. At this time, you can safely add water. Then the function will be useless.
For expensive models, a warning about insufficient fluid level is given by an audible signal. Built-in steamers are fully automated. If necessary, the filtered water valve opens in them, and the liquid from the pan is removed into the sewer.
Additional functions
To improve ease of use, manufacturers provide steamers with useful features. Many models have the ability to:
- Emergency shutdown when the water level drops to the minimum level.
- Delayed start – allows you to set a period of time (from 1 to 12 hours) before starting. Turning on at the right moment, the steamer will prepare the stored food when the owners arrive from work. To prevent the dish from cooling down if it is late, the Keep warm function is provided, which switches the device after cooking to the mode of maintaining the set temperature for a period of up to 12 hours.
- Turning on rapid steam, which, according to manufacturers, reduces cooking time by 2 times and allows you to preserve vitamins. The principle is based on the fact that heating is carried out even before the products are added.
- Automatic cooking (in models with electronic control). After specifying the weight and type of product, the unit begins to prepare the dish according to the appropriate recipe stored in memory.
- Device status indications. All models have this function, except for cheap Chinese-made steamers.
- Controlling the time shown on the display required for cooking food and heating temperature.
- Sound signal when food is ready.
Useful tips from experts on care and use
To keep the device in working condition for a long time, you must follow these rules:
- installation on a flat surface that can withstand high temperatures; there should be no furniture at a height of one meter;
- prevent movement while working;
- The device should not be covered with anything;
- do not allow children near a working steamer;
- Bottled water is ideal for use.
The main fact: the quality and speed of work does not always depend on power.
For care, use a soapy solution. The base can only be wiped with a damp cloth (unplug it from the mains before doing this). Scale is removed from the heating element with a vinegar solution of water in operating mode for 15 minutes.
Rating of the best steam oven models
When choosing, you can use the rating of steamers that have proven themselves to be good.
Tefal VC 1006 Ultra Compact
A device with three spacious bowls and a full functional set of electronic steamer.
The Tefal Ultracompact steamer is suitable for preparing meals for the whole family.
Zauber X-560
It has metal bowls, the water level in the tank is visually observed, it is easy to operate, and compact in storage. The maximum timer is 60 minutes.
Braun FS 3000
Two-tier with mechanical control, power 850 W. 2-liter baskets, plastic case, additional elements.
Philips HD9140
Three tiers with different volumes of baskets and a bowl for rice, recesses for eggs. Most electronic control functions are present (except delay start). Power – 900 W.
The Philips Steamer with Herb and Spice Tray lets you infuse your dishes with the subtle aromas of your favorite seasonings.
Tefal VS 4003 Vitacuisine Compact
10 liters total volume in three plastic baskets. Electronic control. Power 1800 W. The kit includes trays for sauces and marinades, and a recipe
Philips AVENT SCF870
Children's steamer-blender with mechanical control and one container. Power – 400 W.
Braun FS 5100
Two baskets (3.1 liters each) and a 2-liter rice bowl. Power 850 W. Equipped with a steam accelerator. Mechanical control.
The steamer is light and compact, made of high-quality plastic.
Bosch Serie 8 CDG 634 BS1/BB1
Built-in type steamer. A large-sized device with a power of 1.9 kW and electronic control with a child protection function.
Smeg SC745VAO/VPO
With electronic control type, power 3900 W. Reservoir – 1.4 l (without the possibility of adding water), backlight, automatically stops working when the door is opened.
The Smeg SC745VAO built-in steamer is designed for cooking meat, fish and vegetables, steaming, defrosting, as well as heating and sterilizing cans and bottles.
How to choose a steamer for your home
Which steamer is better to buy? When choosing, pay attention to the functionality of the device. Budget models are only suitable for steaming; they do not have a heating or keeping warm function. More expensive equipment is designed for preparing several dishes at once for a large family.
Some housewives purchase a steamer exclusively for preparing vegetable or fruit purees for their child. Therefore, before going to the store, it is important to understand what characteristics and functions the device should have.
Features and Features
Inexpensive multicookers are equipped with defrosting, steaming, and heating functions. Expensive devices have more advanced functionality: timer, delayed start, water level indicator, automatic cleaning reminder. The power of the device for home use varies from 400 to 2000 W.
For a large family, purchase a steamer with 3 separate bowls. The volume of each is from 3 to 4 liters. The shape of the bowls can be oval, round or rectangular. In some devices, the bowls are equipped with a removable bottom to combine several containers into one and increase the volume. Bowls vary in type of coating. The non-stick bottom allows you to cook food in its own juice, which makes it even tastier and healthier.
Important! Pay attention to the material used to make the bowl. Plastic models are lightweight and affordable, but have a short service life. Stainless steel bowls are environmentally friendly and hygienic, do not absorb the smell and taste of food, and are wear-resistant.
In addition to the bowl, pay attention to the accessories. This is a grill for fish or poultry, a basket for cereals, a plastic spoon. Thanks to them, the functionality of the steamer is significantly expanded; it can not only be used for steaming, but also for baking whole meat on a wire rack or boiling pea porridge.
Rating of the best models
Which steamer is better? This question will be answered by the top 5 best models compiled by experts:
- Tefal VC 1301 Minicompact. The device is made of durable plastic, which is easy to clean, lightweight, wear-resistant and does not absorb odors. Power 650 W, this is enough for preparing simple dishes. The steamer is compact, suitable for placement in a small kitchen. It looks stylish and is equipped with a sound alert in case of water boiling. The composition includes 3 bowls, the total volume of which is 7 liters. The price is about 4,000 rubles.
- Endever Vita 160. The mechanical steamer is equipped with a timer and double overheating protection. Consists of 2 bowls with a volume of 1.3 liters. Power 800 W, thanks to the transparent walls it is convenient to observe the process of preparing food. The device is also designed for defrosting food and sterilizing dishes. The container is washed by hand or in the dishwasher. The cost of the equipment is 1,400 rubles.
- Philips HD9140 is equipped with 3 plastic bowls, a removable bottom, a spice tray and an egg boiler attachment. The steamer is electric, has a timer, thermostat, and auto-cooking. Power 900 W, there is a compartment for the power cord. The body is made of plastic and stainless steel, the volume of all bowls is 8.6 liters. Price 1,700 rubles.
- BRAUN FS 5100. Power 850 W, 2 plastic bowls with a volume of 3.1 l each. The control is mechanical, there is a timer, a sound signal, a “Quick steam” mode and an indication of inclusion. The body and baskets are made of plastic; the set includes a rice bowl. There is a separate container for coloring products: beets, carrots, berries. The steamer can be washed in the dishwasher. Price 5,800 rubles.
- CENTEK CT-1457 is a budget device designed for steaming eggs, side dishes, meat and fish. The set includes 3 transparent plastic baskets, an egg tray, and a rice bowl. The steamer is equipped with a water level indicator and a “Fast steam” mode. Power 800 W, body made of stainless steel.