Best Steamers For Cooking: Quick, Easy, And Delicious Meals

Steamers are a great way to cook food without the need for added fats, and they can be used to cook a wide variety of dishes, from vegetables and fish to dumplings and puddings. There are many types of steamers available, from electric steamers to stovetop steamers, and even steamer baskets that can be inserted into a pot of boiling water. When choosing a steamer, it is important to consider factors such as size, safety, and price. Some popular options include the KitchenAid Universal Steamer Basket, the OXO Good Grips Silicone Steamer, and the Cuisinart CookFresh Digital Glass Steamer.

Electric steamers vs stovetop steamers

Electric steamers and stovetop steamers are two types of steamers used for cooking. They differ in various aspects, including convenience, functionality, and cost. Here is a detailed comparison between the two:

Electric Steamers

Electric steamers are standalone appliances that use electricity to generate steam for cooking. They are convenient and easy to use. You simply add water, put your food in, and turn on the steamer. They often feature stackable perforated trays, allowing you to cook multiple items simultaneously. Electric steamers provide a controlled cooking environment with a steady and even flow of steam, a constant temperature, and a timer. This ensures that your food is cooked evenly and efficiently. They are particularly useful when cooking for a large number of people, freeing up hob space. Additionally, electric steamers can have multiple tiers, enabling you to cook different foods separately and at different times. They are available in various materials, including glass, plastic, and stainless steel, offering durability and ease of cleaning. However, they do occupy counter and storage space and may be more expensive than stovetop steamers.

Stovetop Steamers

Stovetop steamers are inserts that fit into or on top of a saucepan or pot filled with simmering water. They come in different forms, such as folding platforms, perforated metal pans, or bamboo baskets. Stovetop steamers are more affordable and don't take up additional counter space. However, they may not offer the same level of convenience and control as electric steamers. The cooking process relies on the heat source of the stove, and there is less precision in terms of temperature and timing. Stovetop steamers are simple and effective for steaming small quantities of food but may not be ideal for cooking large batches.

In conclusion, both electric and stovetop steamers have their advantages and disadvantages. Electric steamers provide convenience, control, and the ability to cook larger quantities. On the other hand, stovetop steamers are more affordable, compact, and suitable for occasional steaming or smaller portions. The choice between the two depends on your specific needs, budget, and available space.

Best steamers for small kitchens

Steaming is a great way to cook a wide variety of foods, from meat and fish to vegetables and even dumplings. It's also a gentle cooking method that preserves flavour and nutrients. If you're short on kitchen space, here are some of the best steamers for small kitchens.

Salter EK2726Z Three-Tier 7.5-Litre Food Steamer

This compact steamer has three dishwasher-safe baskets that stack on top of each other using a divider. For storage, the baskets can be stacked inside each other. The base unit is made from stainless steel, and the baskets, though made of light plastic, fit together well. The top basket has a secure handle, and the steamer requires 500ml of boiling water to use, which saves time as you don't heat from cold. There's enough room to cook for a small family, and the seal between the layers ensures no steam escapes.

Russell Hobbs Three-Tier Food Steamer 21140

This is another budget-friendly option for small kitchens. It has three dishwasher-safe baskets made of plastic, which fit inside each other for easy storage. They must be placed correctly, as each is slightly smaller than the other. The waterspout feature means you can top up the reservoir during cooking without removing the hot baskets. The base unit is transparent, so you can easily see the water level, and there's a boil-dry function. The instruction book is thin but includes everything you need to know about timings, food safety, and descaling.

Crate & Barrel Collapsible Steamer and Colander

If you're really tight on space, this collapsible steamer and colander hybrid from Crate & Barrel might be the answer. It has a small base of 9.5 inches in diameter, and the whole thing collapses to just an inch thick. It does require a larger pot to nestle the basket into, and the handles mean the pot lid won't fit properly, but it's a good option for makeshift steaming.

OXO Good Grips Silicone Steamer

This silicone steamer is a great option if you don't want another appliance on your counter. It fits into any pot with a 7-inch diameter or greater and rolls up for compact storage. The stay-cool handles make it easy to lower food into the pot, and it can also be used in the microwave and inside an Instant Pot or other electric pressure cooker, multi-cooker, or rice cooker. It's naturally non-stick, so it's easy to clean and dishwasher-safe.

Buydeem 5-Quart Electric Food Steamer

This lightweight, compact, and simple electric steamer is a great option for small kitchens. It has a multitiered design, so you can steam multiple items with different cook times. The water inlet makes it convenient to refill the steamer without moving the base, and each piece is lightweight and easy to clean and move around.

Best steamers for large families

If you're looking for a steamer to cook for a large family, there are a few options to consider. Here are some recommendations for the best steamers for large families:

Electric Steamers:

• Cuisinart Digital Glass Steamer: This steamer has a 5.2-quart glass cooking pot, a stainless steel steaming tray, and a glass lid. It features an LCD control panel with preset programmes and manual controls. It received excellent reviews for its performance and capacity, and is said to be sufficient for a family of five.
• Hamilton Beach Digital Food Steamer: This 5.5-quart electric steamer has two stackable tiers, making it ideal for larger batches of food. It includes a rice bowl and a divider to separate or combine foods as needed. It also has a warm mode and a delay-start feature.
• Bella Food Steamer: This is a two-tier steamer with a 7.4-quart capacity. It has stackable baskets and a removable base for easy storage. It also features an auto-shutoff function and boil-dry protection.
• Aroma Housewares Rice Cooker and Food Steamer: This 6-cup rice cooker also functions as a food steamer. It has a capacity of 14 cups when used for steaming.
• National Presto 10-Quart Kitchen Kettle: This multi-cooker has a 10-quart capacity and can be used for steaming, as well as deep-frying and boiling.
• Pukomc Food Steamer: This 16-quart, three-tier electric steamer has an 800-watt power output and features a timer and appointment function for simultaneous cooking.
• BUYDEEM G553 Electric Food Steamer: This five-quart steamer has a one-touch operation and a stainless steel tray. It promises quick steaming in just 60 seconds.
• Veroline Electric Food Steamer: This 15-quart steamer has three stainless steel trays and a 1200-watt power output. It offers a 24-hour delay start timer and an auto-shutoff function.
• Secura Electric Food Steamer: This 8.5-quart steamer has double-tiered, stackable baskets and a timer for convenient cooking.

Stovetop Steamers:

• Anolon Classic Stainless Steel Steamer Insert: This steamer insert fits a variety of pot sizes, including 2-, 3-, and 4-quart saucepans. It has a stainless steel construction and a shatter-resistant glass lid.
• Mister Kitchenware 10-Inch Handmade Bamboo Steamer: This traditional bamboo steamer includes two stacking baskets and a domed lid, providing ample space for cooking a full meal. It is designed for use in a wok or a pot of an appropriate size.
• Calphalon 8-Quart Stock Pot: This 8-quart stock pot comes with a stainless steel pasta strainer and a steamer insert, making it suitable for cooking for larger families.
• Large 3-Tier Stainless Steel Food Steamer Pot: This multi-purpose pot is available in four different sizes, with the larger options recommended for big families. It has three tiers and can be used for cooking meat, vegetables, poultry, eggs, and more.
• Concord 3-Tier Stainless Steel Food Steamer: This multi-purpose steamer has three tiers and is available in four different sizes, with the larger options suited for bigger families.
• Costway 3-Tier Stainless Steel Food Steamer: This steamer has an eight-quart water pot and two removable tiers, allowing you to cook up to 12 quarts of food. It can steam poultry, seafood, and vegetables while cooking rice simultaneously.

Best steamers for different food types

Steamers are a great way to cook food by surrounding it with hot vapour in an enclosed environment, without needing any added cooking fat. They can be used to cook a wide variety of foods, including meat, poultry, fish, vegetables, baby foods, and more. There are two types of steamers: electric and stovetop. Here are some of the best steamers for different food types:

Electric Steamers

Electric steamers are standalone appliances that have stackable, perforated trays or divided compartments for cooking large batches or different foods simultaneously. Water is added to a chamber, and a heating element heats it until it turns to steam. Here are some options for electric steamers:

• Hamilton Beach 37530A Digital Food Steamer: This 5.5-quart electric steamer has two stackable tiers for cooking and nesting for compact storage. It includes a rice bowl and a removable centre divider to separate or combine foods. It automatically switches to a keep-warm setting after cooking but tends to overcook food if left too long. It is available for $41, discounted from $50.
• Cuisinart Digital Glass Steamer: This steamer has a 5.2-quart glass cooking pot, a stainless steel steaming tray, and a glass lid. It features an LCD control panel with pre-programmed food settings and custom controls. It cooks food quickly and evenly and is available with stainless steel or white exterior trim. It is priced at $160.
• Instant Pot Duo Pressure Cooker: This multi-cooker has multiple sizes available and offers precise temperature control. It features 14 pre-set programs, including a Steam program that quickly brings contents to pressure. It is ideal for those with limited kitchen space and retails for $141.
• Bella Food Steamer: A roomy, versatile, and easy-to-use electric steamer available for $35.

Stovetop Steamers

Stovetop steamers are inserts that fit into or on top of saucepans or pots filled with simmering water. They come in various forms, such as folding platforms, perforated metal pans, or bamboo baskets. Here are some options for stovetop steamers:

• Anolon Classic Stainless Steel Steamer Insert: This steamer insert fits onto 2-, 3-, or 4-quart saucepans, including straight-sided and tulip-shaped pots. It is made of stainless steel and has a shatter-resistant glass lid. It is dishwasher-safe and oven-safe up to 500 degrees. It is priced at $23, discounted from $40.
• OXO Good Grips Silicone Steamer: This silicone steamer fits into any pot with a 7-inch diameter or larger and rolls up for compact storage. It has stay-cool handles and can also be used in the microwave or with electric pressure cookers, multi-cookers, or rice cookers. It is dishwasher-safe and available for $20.
• Mister Kitchenware 10-Inch Handmade Bamboo Steamer: This traditional bamboo steamer includes two stacking steamer baskets and a domed lid, ideal for cooking Chinese dumplings, dim sum, vegetables, chicken, fish, and tamales. It comes with disposable basket liners, chopsticks, and a sauce dish. It is available for $20, discounted from $38.
• Progressive Prep Solutions Microwave Fish & Vegetable Steamer: This microwave steamer is perfect for steaming vegetables and fish. It holds water in the tray below while food sits in a perforated basket above. It has a clear lid with a tab to hold or release steam. It holds 1 quart and has a nonstick surface for easy cleaning. It retails for $18.

Best budget steamers

If you're looking for a budget-friendly steamer, there are several options that won't break the bank. Here are some of the best budget steamers for cooking:

BELLA Two-Tier Food Steamer

The BELLA Two-Tier Food Steamer is a great option for those seeking a budget-friendly steamer. It features dishwasher-safe lids, stackable baskets, and a removable base for easy cleaning and storage. With a 4.5-star rating on Amazon, it offers good value for money. It is currently available for $24.46.

Russell Hobbs Three-Tier Food Steamer

The Russell Hobbs Three-Tier Food Steamer is another excellent choice for those on a budget. While the baskets are made of flimsy plastic, it offers a generous 9-litre capacity, making it suitable for family cooking. It features a transparent base unit, a boil-dry function, and an audible timer. This steamer is available for around £30.

OXO Good Grips Silicone Steamer

The OXO Good Grips Silicone Steamer is a versatile option that can be used on the stovetop, in an Instant Pot, or even in the microwave. Its silicone construction makes it naturally non-stick and easy to clean. It also features stay-cool handles, making it safe and convenient to use. The OXO Good Grips Silicone Steamer is available for $20.

Consevisen Steamer Basket Stainless Steel

If you're looking for a budget-friendly steamer basket, the Consevisen Steamer Basket is an excellent choice. It performed well in tests, steaming food just as well as some of the higher-priced models. Its narrow design makes it ideal for smaller saucepans and Dutch ovens. You can get the Consevisen Steamer Basket for $10.

Progressive Prep Solutions Microwave Fish & Vegetable Steamer

For those who want a simple and affordable option for steaming vegetables and fish in the microwave, the Progressive Prep Solutions steamer is a great choice. It requires very little water and circulates hot steam to cook food evenly without drying it out. It's available for as low as $18.

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