Steaming Simplified: Electric Steamer Cooking Guide

Electric steamers are a healthy way to cook your food, helping it to retain its natural colour, smell, microelements and vitamins. They are also incredibly easy to use. First, read the instructions that came with your steamer and take proper safety precautions to prevent injuries and fires/burns. Next, assemble the parts of the steamer and fill the base unit with cool water. Cut your vegetables into equal-sized pieces and place them in the steamer basket. Close the lid, turn on the steamer and set the timer. When the timer goes off, your vegetables will be ready to serve.

How to prepare your food for steaming

Preparing your food for steaming is a simple process. First, decide on the amount of food you are going to cook and choose a pot that accommodates it with a little room left over. You don't want to crowd your food.

Next, fill the pot with a small amount of water, about 1-2 inches. If you are using a steamer basket, place it inside the pot and arrange your food inside. If you don't have a steamer basket, you can use a metal colander placed inside the pot, or even crunch up three equal-sized balls of aluminium foil, place them on the bottom of the pot and put a heat-proof plate on top.

If you are steaming vegetables, arrange them on a shallow plate before putting them in the basket. If you are steaming meat or fish, use fresh garlic, ginger and herbs to enhance the flavour. For fruit, create parcels by placing a mix of chopped fruit in foil or cooking paper with a little orange juice and fresh mint.

If you like, add aromatics such as herbs or citrus slices to the bottom of the steamer basket before adding the food. This will infuse some flavour into the food.

How to assemble your electric steamer

To assemble your electric steamer, you'll need to follow these steps:

Firstly, get familiar with the different parts of your electric steamer. You should have a base unit, which contains the water reservoir. Then, there are the steamer baskets, where you'll place your food for cooking. The number of baskets can vary, but typically, there are one to three baskets that can be arranged in tiers. Finally, there's the lid, which has vents and a handle.

Now that you know the components, it's time to assemble them. Place the base unit on a stable surface, like your kitchen counter. Make sure it's dry and free from any moisture. Then, fill the reservoir with fresh, cool water. Refer to your steamer's instructions to determine the appropriate water level; if no instructions are provided, fill the reservoir up to the maximum fill line without exceeding it.

After filling the reservoir, ensure the diffuser tray is in place, if your steamer has one. Now, it's time to arrange your food. Cut your food into uniform, equal-sized pieces. This ensures even cooking. Place the food loosely into the baskets, ideally in a single layer. Overcrowding the baskets can lead to uneven cooking.

Once your food is arranged, cover the steamer with the lid. Make sure the lid is securely in place to prevent steam from escaping.

At this point, your electric steamer is assembled and ready for use. Remember to always follow the safety precautions outlined in your steamer's instructions manual.

How to fill your steamer with water

Filling your electric steamer with water is a simple process, but it's important to follow the correct steps to ensure your appliance works effectively and safely. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to fill your electric steamer with water:

Step 1: Prepare the steamer

Before filling your steamer with water, it's crucial to ensure it is properly prepared for use. Start by thoroughly cleaning the steamer to remove any dirt or residue from previous cooking sessions. Check that all components, such as the power cord, control buttons, and attachments, are in good working order. If your steamer has multiple tiers or compartments, make sure they are properly aligned and securely attached to ensure even steam distribution during cooking. Additionally, check that there is sufficient space around the steamer for proper ventilation, keeping it away from flammable materials or sensitive surfaces.

Step 2: Locate the water tank

The water tank is typically located at the base or on the side of the steamer. Look for a removable compartment or a designated area designed to hold water. Refer to your steamer's user manual if you're unsure about the exact location. Some steamers have a water level indicator that shows the minimum and maximum water levels required, helping you fill the tank correctly.

Step 3: Remove the water tank cap

The water tank cap seals the water tank to prevent leakage during steaming. Locate the cap on top of the water tank, which may either twist off or simply lift off. Before removing it, make sure the steamer is powered off and unplugged for safety. Gently remove the cap by rotating it counterclockwise if it's a screw-on type or lifting it upwards if it's a lift-off type. Avoid forcing or applying excessive pressure to prevent damage. Set the cap aside in a safe place.

Step 4: Fill the water tank

Now, it's time to fill the water tank with the appropriate amount of water for optimal steaming. Use a clean jug or faucet to pour filtered or distilled water into the tank. Avoid using heavily chlorinated tap water or water with impurities as they may affect the taste and quality of your food. Be careful not to overfill the tank; check the water level indicator if available and do not exceed the maximum fill line. If your steamer lacks a water level indicator, fill the tank with enough water to last the entire cooking duration, keeping in mind that the water will evaporate. Distribute the water evenly across the tank to promote even steam distribution.

Step 5: Close the water tank cap tightly

After filling the water tank, secure the water tank cap tightly to prevent leaks during steaming. Position the cap back onto the water tank, aligning it with the designated groove or threads. If your steamer has a screw-on cap, rotate it clockwise until it's securely in place, being careful not to overtighten. For a lift-off cap, press it down firmly until it sits flush with the water tank. Double-check that the cap is tightly closed by gently twisting or pushing it to ensure a secure seal.

Step 6: Attach the water tank back to the steamer

Now, attach the filled and sealed water tank back to the steamer. Locate the designated area on the steamer, usually at the base or side, designed to accommodate the water tank. Align and gently slide the water tank into place, ensuring it is properly seated and securely attached. Some steamers may have additional locking mechanisms or buttons to secure the connection; follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper locking. Give the water tank a gentle push or wiggle to confirm it is securely attached, with no movement or wobbling.

Step 7: Power on the steamer

With the water tank in place, it's time to power on your steamer. Place the steamer on a stable surface, away from flammable materials or water-sensitive areas. Locate the power switch or button, typically on the front panel or base, and turn it on. Depending on your model, you may need to hold the button for a few seconds. Indicator lights or display panels may illuminate to indicate the steaming process has begun. Allow the steamer some time to heat up and generate steam, which typically takes a few minutes.

Step 8: Start steaming

Once your steamer is powered on and preheated, you're ready to start cooking! Prepare your food by cleaning and chopping the ingredients, then arrange them evenly in the steaming compartments, avoiding overcrowding. Set the cooking time on your steamer, considering the type of food and your desired level of doneness. Most steamers have built-in timers or digital displays. Press the start or steam button to initiate the steaming process, and you'll see steam rising from the compartments. Monitor the cooking process, checking the food for doneness, and avoid opening the steamer unnecessarily to prevent steam escape. Adjust the cooking time if needed, and when your food is cooked to perfection, turn off the steamer. Carefully remove the steamed food using oven mitts or tongs, and your delicious and healthy meal is ready to be served!

How to set the timer on your steamer

Setting the timer on your electric steamer is a simple process, but it may vary slightly depending on the model of your steamer. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to set the timer on your electric steamer:

• Consult your owner's manual: Before you begin, it is essential to refer to the instructions provided by the manufacturer in your owner's manual. This manual will give you specific instructions on how to operate your steamer, including setting the timer.
• Determine the cooking time: Find out the suggested cooking time for the food you are preparing. This information can usually be found in the owner's manual or by referring to cooking guides or recipes.
• Set the timer: Once you know the cooking time, it's time to set the timer on your electric steamer. Look for the timer dial or buttons on your steamer. If your steamer has a dial, turn it to the current time and then adjust it according to the desired cooking time. If your steamer has buttons, you may need to press a "Timer" button and then use arrow or number buttons to set the time.
• Consider multiple foods: If you are cooking multiple foods with different cooking times, start with the food that requires the longest cooking time. You can then add the other foods according to their respective cooking times.
• Start steaming: After setting the timer, close the lid of your steamer tightly to retain the steam and heat. Make sure to follow any other specific instructions provided by the manufacturer for your particular model of the electric steamer.

How to clean and descale your steamer

To clean and descale your electric steamer, follow these steps:

Cleaning the Steamer:

• Unplug the appliance and allow it to cool down.
• Remove or empty the water reservoir into a sink or bucket.
• Fill the water reservoir with distilled white vinegar or cleaning vinegar. Avoid using other types of vinegar as they may leave sediment.
• Plug in the appliance and set it to the highest temperature.
• Point the nozzle into a sink or bucket and turn it on, expelling all the vinegar.
• Refill the tank with distilled water and repeat the process to rinse away any remaining vinegar.
• Allow the steamer to cool completely, then disassemble as many components as possible.
• Dry the components with a microfiber cloth or air dry them.
• Inspect the components for any damage or residue.
• If there is residue in the nozzle, fill a small bowl with warm distilled white vinegar and soak the nozzle for several hours or overnight.
• Rinse the nozzle and use a toothpick to remove any remaining clogged areas.
• Reassemble the steamer.

Descaling the Steamer:

• Fill the water reservoir halfway with clear, white vinegar.
• Place the drip tray, lower steaming bowl, and lid onto the steamer base.
• Set the timer for 25 minutes and allow the steamer to operate until the bell rings.
• Allow the steamer to cool completely, then pour out the vinegar from the drip tray and water reservoir.
• Rinse the water reservoir several times with cold water and allow all parts to dry completely before storing.

General Maintenance Tips:

• Always use distilled water in the reservoir.
• Do not overfill the water tank.
• Do not let the water reservoir run dry during use.
• Empty the water reservoir between steaming sessions.
• Wipe the reservoir dry after each use and before storing.
• Disassemble the steamer components and ensure they are dry before storing.
• Store the steamer upright with the nozzle in an upright position.
• Clean the steamer regularly, especially if used with tap water or if used daily.

Frequently asked questions