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Steaming is a moist heat cooking technique . It involves heating food in a closed environment with hot vapor. This cooking method is very efficient and does not require any cooking oil or fat. This cooking method can be used to prepare many foods, such as meat, poultry, and fish.
There are many options for electric and stovetop steamers. We have a wide selection of food steamers for you to choose from, whether you are looking for an electric stovetop model for cooking a particular task or a steamer insert that fits in your pot for vegetables and baby food preparation.
How to select the best steamer
Size and available area: steamers used for family cooking can have a large footprint. They also come with deep, wide baskets and will take up space on the counter and in the cupboard. Choose a taller model, rather than a wider one. Also, make sure the baskets stack one within the other if space is limited. A majority of steamers weigh around 9 litres. This is enough space to cook a meal for four. A smaller steamer might be more practical if you are cooking for just one or three people.
Safety: Look for models that have sturdy, balanced baskets and strong, easy-to-grip, heatproof handles. It is crucial that the machine can be turned off automatically if it runs out of water. A spout-equipped external tank is best. However, not all models have one. Having to remove baskets can not only reduce cooking time but also increases the risk of injury from steam.
Prices: There are many prices for electric steamers. While the top range will include many features and be made from high-quality materials and have a higher price, it is not recommended to discount the budget and mid range. These all performed extremely well in our test.
Type of Food Steamers
Steamer Basket: Steaming food on the stovetop is a traditional method. A steamer basket can be purchased if you own a saucepan with lid. You can choose to make your steamer basket from silicone or metal. The best choice for steaming larger or heavier vegetables is a metal steamer basket. Silicone baskets are non-sticky and can be used on the stovetop or in the microwave. They can also be used with different pot sizes.
Bamboo Steamer: The bamboo steamer can be placed on top of a stockpot. It is ideal for steaming large quantities of vegetables, as well as other foods like fish and dumplings. You can find them in a variety of sizes and have multiple tiers. A bamboo steamer liner is a good way to prevent bamboo from absorbing flavor while you cook.
Electric Food Steamers: An electric food steamer is a good choice if you plan to steam many vegetables and other foods, but have limited counter space. Many food steamers can stream more than vegetables. They can also cook rice or hard boil egg. Food steamers can store a lot of vegetables, making them great for large groups and families. Many are programmable and can keep food warm for up to 60 to 90 minutes.
Quick List of The 7 Best Food Steamers In 2023
(Click on the arrow ( ⇩ ) if you would like to jump to section) :
- ( ⇩ ) – Prime Home Direct Bamboo Steamer Basket
- ( ⇩ ) – BELLA Two-Tier Food Steamer
- ( ⇩ ) – Progressive International Fish/Veggie Steamer, Gray
- ( ⇩ ) – Rosewill BPA-free, 9.5-Quart (9L)
- ( ⇩ ) – Mister Kitchenware 10 Inch Handmade Bamboo Steamer
- ( ⇩ ) – Cuisinart Digital Glass Steamer
- ( ⇩ ) – Oster Steamer Stainless Steel Cookware
The complete List The 7 Best Food Steamers In 2023
Specifications :Overview
We are now done with our search for the best food steamers. Prime Home Direct has another bamboo model. This bamboo steamer isn’t cheap, but it’s much cheaper than the best electric food steamer. Made throughout from 100% organic bamboo, this is an environmentally-friendly approach to one of the healthiest methods of cooking.
This steamer’s traditional design prevents condensation from dripping onto your food. All heat and steam are locked in thanks to the lid and base. This set includes a 10-inch basket, a pair of chopstick sets, as well as a sauce dish. You also get 50 reusable liners, which will allow you to steam food straight out of the box. You’ll need to follow the same care instructions as for all bamboo cookware. Refer to the manual to find out more.
Specifications :Overview
We are nearing the end of our food steamer review. Bella has yet another model with dual-tiers. What makes this steamer stand out amongst a crowd? First, let me mention that there are several users who have reported this model as leaking. If you want a seamless experience, check out the steamers below. This flashpoint aside, the 7.4-quart capacity allows you to cook vegetables and more for your whole family. What’s the best part? This can be done without ever being tied to the stovetop.
This steamer can be used in a few simple steps. You can then cook mains as well as sides simultaneously, while also retaining more nutrients. All removable parts can be tossed in the dishwasher after you are done. Instead of putting pans on the floor, you will have tasty vegetables and steamed meats or fish on your plate.
Specifications :Overview
Progressive International is the right choice if you are looking for a compact and lightweight steamer that can be used in an RV, on campus, or in your college dorm rooms. This steamer is made from a plastic that is not only BPA-free, but also dishwasher-friendly. This steamer holds 1 quarts, making it ideal for couples or singles. The inside is nonstick so your ingredients won’t get all over it. You can either soak it in warm soapy water, or you can put it in the dishwasher to make cleanup easy.
You can adjust the steam flow rate using the vent on the lid. While the majority of reviews are positive about this steamer, we did find one complaint from customers who were unhappy with the quality of the fit or finish.
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Specifications :Overview
This triple-tiered electric food steamer from Rosewill is a great choice if you are looking for an easy-to-use and clean model. This supersized steamer is ideal for large families or those who host larger gatherings at home. It holds a record-breaking 9.5-quart capacity. The stackable design of this unit, like all electric food steamers is great for saving space. You won’t have to constantly monitor the proceedings and your stovetop will be freed from all those boiling water pans.
Water level indicators mean that you won’t be caught out and your steamer will not run dry. This food steamer is free from BPA in all parts. You don’t have to worry about toxic chemicals leaching into your food if you only want healthier, more delicious vegetables. All baskets and bowls can be washed in the dishwasher, so it’s easy to clean up as well as cook hands-free. What’s not love about this?
Specifications :Overview
We have an eco-friendly bamboo option available for anyone who is looking for a greener way to steam food. Stackable containers with slatted bases allow you to steam multiple dishes at once. Bamboo is not only sustainable and eco-friendly, but it’s also a great option. Bamboo draws in excess moisture while your food steams, preventing condensation from building up and dripping onto your food.
It has a slatted bottom to allow steam to circulate freely within the cooker chamber and a domed lid that maximizes heat circulation. This will ensure your vegetables are crisp and tasty, while not becoming mushy. This steamer has one real drawback: it is not dishwasher-friendly and can be difficult to clean and maintain. Before you commit to buying, take this into consideration.
Specifications :Overview
Cuisinart Digital Glass Steamer is Powerful steam system with 5L dishwasher-safe glass pot, LCD control panel, Start/Stop, Pause & Reheat buttons & Audible alert. There are 5 preprogrammed food settings: seafood, poultry, grains, vegetables, and manual. It has 60 minute countdown timer.
Even it has Stainless steel steaming tray, glass lid with stainless steel rim & glass lid with stainless steel rim. 1L removable water tank ,Included Components: Steamer unit, Glass cooking pot. Please check compatibility before purchasing.
Specifications :Overview
Cuisinart is a trusted brand, and the digital food steamer from Cuisinart looks amazing and works just as well. What are you getting for your money? This low-slung unit will not clutter up your kitchen counter. Combining stainless steel with durable dishwasher-safe glass, you get a steamer that is both sturdy and easy to clean.
Select from these presets: a) Manual; b) Vegetables; c) Grains; d) Poultry; e) Seafood
This will allow you to be in control of your cooking or make one-touch decisions. The 60-minute countdown clock removes all guesswork and hassle from steaming. When the food is ready, an audible alarm sounds. You’ll get a large glass pot with a 5-liter capacity and a 1-liter water tank. To simplify operations, this can be removed. The majority of user feedback for this food steamer has been positive. However, we did find some issues with the fact that there is no mention about this steamer’s plastic being BPA-free. Do your due diligence here.
FAQs
1. What foods are the best for steaming?
A food steamer is best for vegetables, as they cook well. However, you can steam more than just carrots and broccoli. You can steam root vegetables, leafy leaves, and squashes with your new steamer. A steamer can also be used to steam frozen vegetables. Both shellfish and fish respond well to steaming. When the fish becomes flaky, it is ready to serve. Shellfish will turn translucent after steaming.
To steam chicken, make sure you use a meat thermometer so that the internal temperature is at 160F before serving. In just 6 minutes, a steamer can produce eggs with cooked whites as well as gloopy, yellowy yolks. Hard-boiled eggs can be made by steaming them for 12 minutes. You can steamer beef and lamb, but avoid harder cuts. They won’t steam well.
2. When should I season my food for steaming?
Before steaming, season your ingredients. To help season your vegetables, you can use a mix of olive oil and herbs. To ensure that your meats are full of flavor, marinate them before you steam them.
3. Is it possible for water to be seasoned while steaming food?
Yes. You can add chicken broth, vegetable broth or lemon juice to the water. For a milder flavor, you can add herbs such as lemongrass, rosemary and dill to the water.
4. Is steaming food good for you?
Steaming is healthier than boiling or frying food. Steaming food is healthier than boiling it in water.
5. Is steaming food faster than boiling?
Once the temperature has been reached, boiling is faster than steaming. However, the best electric steamers work in less than 15 seconds so it is quick and easy to cook.
6. How long does it take for vegetables to steam?
Depending on the vegetable, steaming takes between 3 and 8 minutes.
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