Steam Ovens Vs Microwaves: A Quick Cooking Comparison

Steam ovens and microwaves are two of the most common appliances that people consider when remodelling their kitchens. While microwaves are more familiar, steam ovens are becoming increasingly popular. This is partly because steam ovens are believed to be healthier than microwaves, as they can cook food without added oils or fats, and food retains its natural antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. However, steam ovens are typically more expensive than microwaves, and they also take longer to cook food. So, which is better?

Steam ovens vs. microwaves: pros and cons

Steam ovens and microwaves are two of the most common appliances in kitchens. While microwaves are more familiar, steam ovens are becoming increasingly popular. Here is a detailed comparison of the two, including their pros and cons.

Steam ovens use steam to cook food. They have a reservoir that is filled with water, which turns into steam as the oven heats up. The steam then cooks the food, creating a moist environment. On the other hand, microwaves use radiation to heat food. They have a microwave generator called a magnetron, which turns electricity into radio waves that penetrate and heat the food.

Pros and cons of steam ovens

Pros: Steam ovens retain moisture, vitamins, and minerals in food, resulting in healthier and more flavorful meals. They can cook almost any type of food and allow for oil-free cooking. Steam ovens are also compact, easy to clean, and energy-efficient.

Cons: Steam ovens are more expensive than microwaves, with prices ranging from $200 to $8000. They also require regular cleaning and descaling due to condensation buildup. Additionally, standalone steam ovens cannot brown or crisp foods, and the cooking time is slower compared to microwaves.

Pros and cons of microwaves

Pros: Microwaves are versatile, affordable, and convenient. They can heat food quickly and are easy to clean. Microwaves are also compact and suitable for small kitchens.

Cons: Microwaves can cause food to dehydrate, and they cannot brown or crisp foods. They may also result in uneven cooking, especially with thicker foods. Microwaves also require the use of microwave-safe containers, limiting the type of cookware that can be used.

Both steam ovens and microwaves have their advantages and disadvantages. Steam ovens offer healthier and more flavorful cooking but are more expensive and slower. Microwaves are convenient and affordable but may not produce the best-tasting results. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on your specific needs and preferences.

How steam ovens and microwaves work

Steam ovens and microwaves are both convenient kitchen appliances used for cooking and reheating food. However, they employ different mechanisms to achieve these functions.

Microwaves use electromagnetic waves to cook food. These waves are generated by a device called a magnetron, which channels electrical energy to create a flow of electrons, thereby transmitting microwaves into the cooking chamber. The microwaves bounce around inside the oven, causing the water molecules, sugars, and fats in food to vibrate rapidly and generate heat. This process, known as radiation heating, cooks the food from the inside out. Microwaves are known for their speed and convenience, making them a staple in modern kitchens.

On the other hand, steam ovens use hot steam instead of hot air to cook food. They work by siphoning water from a built-in water tank into a boiler, heating it to 212 degrees Fahrenheit, and then releasing the steam into the oven cavity. This superheated steam cooks food evenly and helps retain moisture, resulting in tastier and healthier dishes. Steam ovens are gaining popularity due to their ability to produce healthier, fresher, and more flavorful food without requiring significant changes to cooking habits or grocery shopping routines.

While both appliances have their advantages, steam ovens generally offer better cooking results, retaining the natural textures, colors, and flavors of food. They also eliminate the need for additional oils and fats during cooking. However, steam ovens may require more maintenance and have longer cooking times compared to microwaves.

In summary, microwaves and steam ovens differ in their cooking mechanisms, with microwaves using electromagnetic waves and steam ovens utilizing superheated steam. Both have their advantages, but steam ovens tend to offer improved cooking results, making them a popular addition or alternative to traditional ovens.

Healthiness, taste and convenience of steam ovens vs. microwaves

Healthiness, Taste, and Convenience of Steam Ovens vs. Microwaves

Steam ovens and microwaves are both convenient kitchen appliances used for cooking and reheating food. However, they differ in terms of cooking methods, taste, healthiness, and convenience.

Healthiness

Steam ovens use hot steam to cook food from the outside in, while microwaves use electromagnetic waves to heat food from the inside out. One of the main concerns with microwaves is the potential loss of nutrients and flavour during the cooking process. On the other hand, steam ovens are known to lock in nutrients and flavour, resulting in more nutritious and tasty meals.

Taste

Steam ovens are often preferred for their ability to prevent food from drying out, ensuring a supple and fresh taste. The steam technology provides a crispy outside texture while keeping the inside moist and tender. Microwaved food, on the other hand, can sometimes turn out flavourless and dry.

Convenience

Microwaves are known for their convenience and speed. They are easy to use, affordable, and can cook or reheat food within minutes. Steam ovens, while faster than conventional ovens, cannot match the swiftness of microwaves. They also require a higher upfront investment, with prices ranging from $250 to over $3,000, whereas basic microwaves can cost less than $100. Additionally, steam ovens can be bulky and may not be suitable for smaller kitchens.

In conclusion, while both steam ovens and microwaves offer unique benefits, the decision between the two depends on individual preferences and needs. Microwaves excel in convenience and affordability, while steam ovens offer superior taste, nutrition, and cooking versatility.

Cost of steam ovens vs. microwaves

Steam ovens and microwaves differ significantly in terms of cost. Microwaves are generally very affordable, with basic models costing under $100, and high-end models with additional features and finishes costing over $1,000. On the other hand, steam ovens are significantly more expensive, with wall units ranging from $2,000 to $4,000 for basic models, and over $7,000 for higher-end options. Countertop steam ovens are more affordable, with prices starting at $250 and reaching upwards of $700 for high-end models.

The high price tag of steam ovens is often a deciding factor for consumers. A steam oven is a significant investment, and for those on a budget, a regular oven may be a more realistic option. However, it is worth noting that steam ovens offer a range of benefits, such as improved flavour and nutrition retention, that may justify the higher cost for some consumers.

Additionally, it is important to consider the long-term costs associated with each appliance. Steam ovens have a longer lifespan than microwaves, with proper maintenance, a steam oven can last for 13 to 15 years, whereas a microwave typically lasts for 3 to 8 years. This means that over time, the cost of replacing microwaves may exceed the initial investment in a steam oven.

In conclusion, while microwaves are typically more affordable upfront, the longevity and potential health benefits of steam ovens may make them a more cost-effective option in the long run. The decision between the two appliances ultimately depends on individual preferences, budgets, and priorities in the kitchen.

Cleaning and maintenance of steam ovens vs. microwaves

Cleaning a Steam Oven

Steam ovens are easy to clean. You can simply wipe the appliance with a damp cloth or paper towel inside and out, and you're done. However, there might be some moisture left at the end of cooking, which you will need to wipe up. If you've cooked something messy like a roast chicken, you will need to clean the oven.

Cleaning a Microwave

Microwaves are also easy to clean. In most cases, microwaved food stays in its container, so there is no mess. If there is a splatter or spill, it can be easily wiped away with a paper towel or cloth. However, if you do not clean the appliance immediately and use the microwave again, the mess will likely become cemented onto the appliance and will require more effort to clean.

Maintenance of a Steam Oven

Steam ovens require a little more maintenance than microwaves. For example, you will need to wipe up any moisture left at the end of cooking.

Maintenance of a Microwave

Microwaves have a few more maintenance requirements than steam ovens. Here are some tips to keep your microwave in good condition:

• Be quick to clean up spills as soon as they occur. Bits of food left behind can absorb some of the microwave's energy when you turn it on again, creating a hot spot that can damage the interior.
• Turn on the exhaust fan when cooking to prevent moisture from collecting on the electronics and shortening the life of your microwave.
• Regularly clean the grease filters that catch the cooking fumes from the range top below, especially if you often fry food.
• Avoid slamming the door, as this can damage the plastic door strikes, latch mechanisms, and door switches.
• Don't run the microwave empty, as this can cause the unit to overheat or burn marks to form in the interior.
• Avoid putting metal objects in the microwave, as this can cause arcing and damage the interior.
• Use pre-programmed cooking times to prevent food from overcooking and spattering the inside of the oven.

Comparison

Overall, both steam ovens and microwaves are easy to clean and maintain. However, microwaves may require a bit more maintenance to keep them in good working condition, while steam ovens are simpler to clean but may require wiping up moisture after cooking.

Frequently asked questions