Which steamers are better. How to choose a steamer: an overview and practical tips

Everyone knows that steamed food differs in its taste and health properties from traditional food. Steaming dishes are advised to all people who care about their health. Such food is especially relevant for children, pregnant and lactating women, as well as people who are worried about diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. We will show you how to choose a steamer in which you can prepare many delicious and healthy dishes.

The steamer is a device you need to prepare quality food

Why buy a double boiler

Previously, steam dishes were prepared only for those people who simply needed it for health reasons, while other lucky people who did not have stomach problems preferred to cook food. the traditional way - boil, fry, bake. For some reason, steamed food was considered unpalatable, and many people even sympathized with the "unfortunate" who had to eat exclusively steamed food. Now most housewives have appreciated the double boiler, and the device has taken pride of place in many kitchens. And not only because, the cult of healthy eating and a healthy lifestyle has firmly penetrated our consciousness. The steamer, keeping vitamins and microelements in products, prepares them quickly, and, most importantly, independently. And this unties the hands of the hostesses and gives them free time, which they can spend at their discretion. So, a young mother, instead of spending several hours in the kitchen, loads fish, rice and vegetables into three baskets of a double boiler, and goes for a walk with the child. Upon their return, they will have a delicious and healthy lunch or dinner.

How the steamer works

In short, food in a double boiler is prepared in a water bath. There is a special water tank at the base of the device. After turning on the steamer in the network, the heating element quickly brings the water to a boil. Steam is generated and fed into the bowls underneath. Steam is used to prepare food.

Uniform and quick cooking products occurs due to the fact that hot steam envelops the food from all sides. Another advantage of the steamer is that it allows you to cook without using fats. This is very important for people trying to limit their fat intake.

How to choose the perfect steamer

Steamer with mechanical control very light and easy to use

If you decide to purchase a double boiler, it is worth deciding on the characteristics that this device must meet so that it is convenient for you to use it.

Whichever steamer you choose, remember to use only soft water in the appliance. If using tap water, it is advisable to pass it through a filter. Hard water contains dissolved calcium and magnesium salts, which, when the water boils, turn into steam and settle on the walls of the steamer during condensation. The body of the device is covered with limescale, which must be removed periodically. This is best done by pouring a solution of vinegar into the steamer and turning the appliance on.

Expensive models of steamers have a function of reminding you to clean the walls of the appliance. There are models in which an electronic display displays information about the number of cooking cycles before the next cleaning of the device. There are also models on sale that automatically dry the walls of the steamer after each cooking cycle.

Device control type

Steamers with electronic control usually presented in medium and high price categories

Most often, steamers have a mechanical control type. They are easily recognizable by their distinctive round handle on the front. To set the operating time of the steamer, simply turn this knob.

Electromechanical is the simplest type of control, which has one advantage over electronic. To turn on the steamer, just one turn of the handle. Electronic steamers are equipped with a keypad, which has a small display that displays the selected modes. It will take longer to figure out the principle of operation of such a double boiler, but on the other hand, here you can more accurately set the cooking time. Housewives who have already used both types of steamers are advised to choose mechanical appliances. First, they are cheaper. Secondly, they break less often. Third, cooking times can be manually adjusted.

Electro-mechanical type of control is used in models of steamers in the middle and low price range. These are Moulinex, Braun, Tefal, Atlanta, Binatone, Richards, Saturn, Viconte devices.

There are models of the middle and high price range with electronic control. Their price depends on the quality of the material from which the body and bowls are made, as well as on the number of additional functions. Some models of Siemens, Electrolux, Tefal, Scarlett, Vitek, AEG, De Dietrich, Gaggenau, Imperial, Kenwood, Kuppersbusch, Neff, Unit steamers are equipped with electronic control.

Device power

The cooking time in a double boiler depends on this parameter. The more bowls in your chosen steamer, the more power you need to be. Typically, the power of the device is from 400 to 1800 W. For a steamer with three baskets of 3-4 liters, 900-1200 watts is enough. If you decide to buy the simplest single-bowl steamer, 400-500 watts of power is enough for its operation.

Number and shape of steam baskets

An inexpensive single-bowl steamer is perfect for a small family with an average income

Most often there are two or three baskets in steamers, but there are models with one bowl. In models with two to three bowls, you can cook several dishes at the same time. If you have a large family, choose a steamer with three steam baskets. Be sure to check if there is a special rice bowl.

Pay attention to the shape of the steam baskets. Most steamer models have baskets with different diameters bottom, which is very convenient for storing the device (it takes less spacesince baskets are inserted into one another). But baskets with different bottom diameters can be inconvenient during operation, since it will not be possible to swap the baskets during cooking if it turns out that in the lower part of the steamer the dish is almost ready, and in the upper part it is only half ready.

Pro-cooked bowls are made of transparent heat-resistant plastic. You can follow the cooking process.

Small bowls are very convenient for washing in dishwasher... They are very convenient to store, which is important if you have small kitchen with a minimum number of cabinets. Large bowls are necessary for large foods (whole fish or chicken, and oval bowls are better for these foods than round ones).

Bowls can have a collapsible or non-collapsible bottom. If the bottom is removable, you can assemble one large bowl from two small bowls. The bottom can be made of stainless steel or have a non-stick coating. The latter greatly facilitates cleaning the steamer and allows you to stew food in own juice or marinade.

Tefal, Bosch, Kenwood, Morphy Richards, Viconte, Unit, Binatone steamers are equipped with collapsible bowls. At the same time, Tefal and Bosch steamers have a non-stick bottom.

Number of pallets

When choosing a steamer, be sure to find out how many pallets there are in your chosen steamer model. This is very important, because if there is one tray in the steamer (which is typical for most models), then steam condensate and juice from all the products that are cooked in different bowls of the appliance drip into it. Consequently, the lower products will be saturated with the juice of the upper ones. Sometimes this is very good, and sometimes not - it depends on what dishes are being cooked in your steamer at the same time.

It is better if the pallet is deep. In this case, you do not have to turn off the steamer in order to pour out the accumulated liquid. The 1.5 cm high tray is quite roomy, but it is better to have a height of 2 to 2.5 cm. Choosing a double boiler with a deep tray, you will be sure that it will not have time to overflow during the preparation of most dishes. Usually, food is cooked in a double boiler no longer than 60 minutes.

It is highly desirable that the pallet has handles. This is especially true for not very deep trays - during the preparation of the dish, they will be filled almost to the brim, therefore, pouring out the water, it is easy to burn yourself.

Water indicator and refill option

If there is not enough water in the Kenwood mechanical steamer, it can be topped up without turning off the device

Some steamer models are equipped with an external water level indicator. This is very convenient because you can always check if there is enough water in the appliance to generate steam. After all, it is with the help of hot steam that dishes are prepared. The ability to add water during cooking is very important if you are using multiple layers or if you are steaming meat or fish. There may not be enough water in the sump for continuous operation of the appliance.

Water is added through a special funnel or through the hollow handles of the cooking basket. The possibility of adding water is not provided only in the cheapest models of steamers (Braun, Unit). Most devices are equipped with this function. These are steamers Tefal, Kenwood, Moulinex, Atlanta, Binatone, Saturn, Scarlett, Morphy Richards, Viconte, Vitek, Unit.

IN expensive models an acoustic signal warns of the need to add water to the steamer. There are also built-in steamers, in which all processes are automated, including water level control and refilling. IN the right moment purified water flows from the water supply system, and the condensate is safely drained into the sewer.

Additional device functions

The TEFAL steamer with non-stick coating in all respects confirms the high reputation of its creators

In addition to the water level indicator and the possibility of adding it during cooking, many models of steamers have the following additional functions:

• shutdown in the absence of water in the steamer is a very important function, thanks to which the device is protected from overheating. Your comfort and safety while using the steamer depends on it;
• delayed start - the ability to set the time after which the steamer will start its work. A very useful function if you need to cook food at a specific time. In combination with the function of keeping the dish warm, the delayed start gives the hostess great opportunities;
• keeping food warm (Keep warm). This mode allows the steamer to remain on after finishing cooking. She can keep the dish warm for 12 hours. It is very convenient: we went for a walk, and a warm lunch will be waiting for you on your return, even if you are late;
• "Fast steam" is a function that allows you to speed up the cooking process as much as possible. Steam is generated very quickly - depending on the model of the steamer, in 30-40 seconds. Manufacturers claim that more vitamins are stored in this way. And the creators of the Vitamin + steamer, Tefal specialists, claim that when this function is turned on, food is cooked twice as fast;
• function "recipes" or "automatic preparation". Only available in electronic steamers. The manufacturing company has put in the memory of the device several standard cooking recipes. This is very convenient for those who cannot cook. It is enough to indicate the mass and the product, and the steamer will independently choose the desired program;
• steamer working status indicator. This function is available in all models, except for the cheapest steamers from unknown Chinese manufacturers. It is clear that buying such is not recommended: it is not known what quality plastic, in what condition electric wires;
• indicator of the time it takes to cook the dish and a digital display showing the heating temperature. This function is only available in electronic steamers;
• sound alarm the beginning and end of the cooking process.

The steamer built into the hob is convenient and practical

Different models of steamers are equipped in different ways. So, in addition to the obligatory bowls for cooking products, the delivery kits usually include:

• a container for a side dish, a grate or a stand for boiling eggs (Tefal, Moulinex, Binatone, Unit, Saturn, Scarlett, Vigor, Vitek steamers);
• a special bowl for cooking rice (steamers Moulinex, Tefal, Kenwood, Atlanta, Binatone, Braun, Saturn, Scarlett, Viconte, Vitek, Unit);
• a special grid for cooking whole bulk products (Tefal steamer);
• trays for collecting condensate drops (Tefal, Kenwood, Saturn, Unit, Braun, Vitek);
• a container for bulk and liquid products and trays for collecting juice or fat that flow out of the food during the cooking process (Vigor steamer);
• steaming stand for foods that color other foods (Braun steamer);
• a probe that controls the temperature of the dish during cooking (can be purchased additionally at the service center);
• a cookbook with recipes and recommendations for cooking in this steamer (books are included with many steamers, but the most voluminous one is from Tefal).

Other benefits of steamers

Many modern kitchen units provide the ability to install a built-in steamer

In addition to the fact that the steamer is able to cook several dishes at the same time, while maintaining the useful properties of the products, it can heat up a cold dish, baked goods or bread.

Thanks to the double boiler, cold meat dishes can return the taste of freshly cooked ones. Cutlets and meat rolls will be juicy and delicious.

In a double boiler, you can not only cook food, but also defrost it. Thawed food retains moisture (as opposed to defrosting in the microwave, where meat or fish dries up in some places).

In a double boiler, you can quickly prepare a yeast cake dough by creating optimal conditions to lift it. You can also blanch vegetables, sterilize home canning jars and baby food.

Choosing a double boiler for the price

Steamers of the same brand can be made in different variations, have different prices and different consumer indicators. Moreover, the prices for steamers can differ several times.

Devices, the price of which is up to 1000 rubles, are considered low-price steamers. They are suitable for preparing the simplest steamed diet meals. In an average-priced double boiler (2-3 thousand rubles), you can cook meat and fish dishes, side dishes (cereals, pasta, omelet). They usually have quite large cooking containers, so you can cook whole chicken or large fish in them.

High-price steamers (3000 rubles and more) are steamers and multicooker, in which you can not only steam, but also stew and bake. Expensive steamers can cook up to three dishes at a time. But remember, the more food you cook, the longer it will take.

Expensive steamers choose the temperature and cooking time according to the parameters specified by the user: the product itself and its weight.

The price of this device depends on its brand and design. Dimensions, power and equipment affect the price to a lesser extent. On the Russian market, there are models of desktop steamers, the price of which is from 1000 to 6000 rubles. Models Moulinex, Kenwood, Scarlett, Unit can be purchased for up to 1.5 thousand rubles. Steam cookers Bork, Panasonic, Tefal, Braun, Kenwood, Morphy Richards cost from 2 to 6 thousand rubles. Built-in steamers are much more expensive.

Summary

Steamer - reliable assistant in the kitchen of supporters of healthy food and delicious food

Boiled and fried food devoid of vitamins and minerals, but this is not its main drawback. It can be hazardous to health, as studies have shown that prolonged heat treatment products (especially frying) leads to the formation of carcinogens - substances that have an extremely negative effect on human health (according to some reports, they cause cancer).

If you have never used a steamer before, be sure to give it a try. There is no doubt that you will be satisfied. After all, using this device is extremely easy: pour a little water, put in food, turn on the timer - and that's it, you're free. Go about your business until a signal calls you to the kitchen when everything is ready. There is no need to stir and turn the food, and you can only watch the preparation out of idle curiosity. You can also defrost food in a double boiler and prepare it for canning.

Beauty, brilliance, overseas names are essential elements of modern steamers. They are the ones that buyers most often look at, instead of scrupulously studying the main performance characteristics and useful features. We suggest choosing a device by its filling, and not by a shiny "wrapper" ...

When choosing home appliances, you need to remember one rule - the more options, the better. And this rule automatically "cuts off" all steamers that are intended for cooking on the stove. Therefore, we will choose only from electric steamers.

The complete list of "talents" of modern steamers is long enough, but this is not a reason to miss anything. You need to know at least about their existence, otherwise you risk soon to be disappointed in your purchase.

Steamer operation algorithm

The lower part of the steamer is reserved for the control unit, which can be represented as an ordinary regulator, as well as a real mini-computer with an LCD display. The first option only allows you to turn on the device and set the cooking time, and with the second you can almost fly into space. Naturally, it is better to choose an electronic control unit with an LCD display (if money allows).

A more advanced version of the control panel makes it possible to set the cooking mode and time, start time and timeout. In addition, in the best models, you can add water to the tank during cooking, as well as keep the dish warm for a long time (in the keep warm mode). By the way, a double boiler must be able to turn off automatically if there is not enough water in it.

And now more about each function ...

Useful and enjoyable features

Not all elements of a steamer are vital, some are just nice additions and add only a little convenience. It is impossible to do without others. But let's point by point:

• Adding water during cooking - convenient in that you do not need to interrupt the process in order to add water to the tank, if necessary;
• Overheating protection is a vital piece, without which the device will surely burn out one day;
• The water level indicator in the tank is a nice feature, but in the presence of protection, it is not very relevant;
• The keep warm function is very useful for business people, as it allows you to keep food warm for long hours;
• Delayed start - saves a lot of time, as the steamer can cook while you are away;
• Function "Fast steam" or its equivalent - speeds up the cooking process (sometimes 2 times);
• The pre-installed "recipes" are convenient, and for some they are extremely necessary, since they do not need to have the gift of a cook (you only need to indicate the name of the product and its weight).

Important characteristics

There are only four defining parameters:

• Power. The bottom bar is 400 W, the top is about 2000 W. The higher the power, the faster the food will cook. However, it is important to choose the optimal ratio of power and number of bowls (it would also be nice to take into account the volume of each bowl). For example, a 900 watt steamer will work just fine with three 3 liter bowls.
• The number and capacity of bowls (baskets). The more bowls, the more food you can cook at once. At the same time, it would be nice to also get a bowl for rice, in which you can cook any cereal. The volume of baskets is different - from 1 liter and more. Here, look at the needs of your family.
• The number and volume of pallets. During cooking, the juice from each dish is collected in the trays. If there is only one pallet (at the very bottom), then the juice of the upper ones will drip onto the lower dishes, if there is a pallet under each bowl, then the smells and juices will not mix. Well, the deeper the pallet, the more convenient it is to work with it.
• The format and cost of the steamer. The price of the device can range from $ 20 to $ 5,000, depending on its functions, characteristics and dimensions. Steamers can be built-in and tabletop. Decent built-in options cost at least $ 1,000, while desktop options start at $ 20.

Finally

Pick up perfect option it is possible, but for this you need to objectively calculate the needs of your family. Well, as for the manufacturers, it is difficult to guess here. Whom you believe, from those and buy ...

Rostislav Kuzmin

Good afternoon, dear readers. Steamed dishes are particularly healthy and delicious. This food is great for baby food, the diet of pregnant women, the elderly and people who care about their health. A steamer will help you in preparing healthy culinary products. In today's article I will try to figure out how to choose a steamer, what it is, what are its functions and design features.

The most indispensable kitchen unit in which you can simultaneously cook several low-fat, low-calorie dishes (meat, vegetables, desserts) is a double boiler. It is easy to use and easy to clean, so it is in great demand among people who value healthy, tasty food.

The most frequently asked question I hear is help me choose a quality and inexpensive steamer for home use.

Here you need to understand that the functionality, performance and cost of the device directly depends on its parameters and power, therefore, when choosing a double boiler for your home, you need to pay attention to the following selection criteria:

Following these selection rules, you will always be able to choose the right steamer for home use or as a gift to friends. Going through the parameters of the device, you can choose the most productive, multifunctional or, conversely, a budget unit.

TOP 6 best steamers of 2017

If you care about your health, nutrition, shape and are thinking about buying a double boiler, then you need to find out how to choose a high-quality, efficient device that is ready to cook quickly and tasty healthy food. Functional kits modern devices so diverse that it is rather difficult to make a choice. The most common functions include heat support, liquid level indicator, overheating protection, automatic shutdown. The set of kitchen assistants also differs. How not to make a mistake in choosing and not overpay for unnecessary functions?

Especially for you, I made a review of the most popular among buyers of inexpensive, average models, as well as premium devices. Based on this data, I have selected the most demanded steamers, ranking the best.

Rating of inexpensive steamers

Not every customer has the opportunity to choose an expensive multifunctional steamer from a leading brand. Surely you are interested in the question, are there inexpensive, functional and high-quality steamers in our kitchen appliance market?

Of course, there are such, the most popular budget devices include:

Both options are fully consistent with the price-quality parameter, so you should not expect something supernatural from these steamers, although they are quite suitable for rare home use.

The best average steamers

If you are not satisfied with appliances for rare use, and you are looking for an average steamer with a good set of functions, high quality and good looks, then this rating of the middle category units is especially for you.

Also a good option would be the lineup VITEK trademark, they are relatively inexpensive, aesthetic, functional and roomy. Any of these steamers will become good choice for preparing healthy food for the whole family in good quantities.

Top best premium steamers

If you prefer a modern, multifunctional, equipped with various bells and whistles kitchen appliances, then the rating of the most popular luxury steamers will help you in the right choice.

These include:

Both models will become irreplaceable helpers on the home kitchen in preparing healthy meals for the whole family.

Regardless of which device you choose, you will purchase good friendguarding your health. If you still have any doubts about the benefits of steaming food, welcome. On this positive note, it's time for us to say goodbye. I hope that the rules for choosing and the rating of the best steamers of 2017 will help you decide and make the right choice. Subscribe, remain regular readers and invite your friends, I have many more useful information for you.

Thanks for your attention! Until next time on my blog. Best regards, Rostislav Kuzmin.

Class

Nowadays, steamers have taken their rightful place in our kitchen. Increasingly, we resort to healthy way life with healthy eating at its core. Therefore, instead of fried and baked, we choose to cook healthy steamed food.

Indeed, with this method of preparation, foods retain as many vitamins and useful properties... Especially if there are small children or people with a certain diet in the house. But even despite the specific need, it can be noted that such food will be useful for every person.

If you go to a supermarket to buy this technique, we will be presented with a large selection. Therefore, let's take a closer look at their types and how to choose a double boiler for your home?

What kind of steamers are there?

All steamers are different. From the method of installation in the functions they perform.

By the installation method, devices are distinguished:

• Built-in.
• Autonomous.

The built-in type is very convenient in that it saves space, the device has a specially designated corner. As a rule, they are built into kitchen set (countertop), only the food containers remain visible. In such variants, buttons are located on the side panel. It also requires the installation of a water tank next to it. In appearance, this technique is somewhat similar to an electric stove.

Higher class models allow connection to a common pipeline, which eliminates the need to manually fill the container with water each time.

The most primitive options include functions:

1. Heating.
2. Defrosting.
3. Steam cooking.

More expensive models can have advanced functionality and have 5-10 programs.

Freestanding (autonomous) steamers. Their installation is very simple. This unit can be installed anywhere in the kitchen where there is access to an outlet.

In general, it performs the main task properly. However, its disadvantages are that the freestanding type is more likely to be accidentally flipped in the rush of cooking. And also in such steamers more modest functionality.

By control method:

Mechanical - equipped with a button (on / off) and a rotary lever that adjusts (sets) the cooking time. They have an automatic shutdown after finishing cooking. It copes well with the main task and is affordable.

Electric - equipped with an electrical panel, touch control. The actual display shows preset functions: temperature, cooking time, amount of liquid in the tank.

Such a device will in the full sense satisfy your wishes for an autonomous cooking process. It is necessary to prepare food and select a cooking program. No further control is required, the unit will operate in the required mode for the correct preparation of the dish without your participation. True, such steamers are somewhat more expensive at a price, but this is completely justified.

Slabs are the simplest mechanism. It is a tall pan with several partitions on which food is laid out. Water is poured onto the bottom of the pan. After that, such a double boiler is placed on a stove (gas or electric). Heating the water produces steam and steam cooking. The simplest and affordable way, but requires on your part to control the cooking process for readiness. For the price, these steamers are the cheapest.

How does it work and what can you cook?

The principle of the steamer is very simple. Water is poured into the lower compartment. The device is equipped heating element, which brings the water to a high temperature, and that, in turn, turns into steam. The steam spreads from the bottom up, under its action, the products are brought to readiness.

Steamer cooking is a real delight. Indeed, with its help it is easy to prepare most products:

• Meat.
• Fish.
• Vegetables.
• Porridge.
• Other products.

Among the advantages:

• During cooking, you do not need to stir the food so as not to burn.
• Installation of several containers allows you to cook several dishes at the same time.
• Reheating food or defrosting food is also within the power of this device.
• Some models have a delayed start function.

Criterias of choice

In addition to the brand, design and type of this unit, when choosing, you should pay attention to its main technical characteristics.

1. The power of power. The speed of cooking will depend on this indicator. In technology of this type, it varies from 600 to 200 watts.
2. The number of operating modes, programs. The basic functions are absolutely sufficient for cooking, defrosting or heating. However, their number can be much more - 5, 10 and even up to 20. Here you should decide how important they are to you and whether they will be used at all. After all, the more special functions the more expensive the equipment.
3. The number of containers. This is an important point when choosing a steamer. In particular, how much food you can cook depends on it. Approximately 2-3 containers are enough for a family of up to 3 people. If the family is large and you are actively steaming a variety of foods, then you should choose more containers. But note, the more their number, the more powerful the technique should be. Keep in mind that almost all sets have a container for cooking rice, but you can use it for different dishes (soup, porridge, pudding).
4. The number of pallets and their depth. A steamer may have one tray at the bottom. Or maybe installed separately under each container. This makes sense, the presence of a separate tray for each basket does not allow smells to mix during the preparation of various dishes. The depth of the pallet matters. Its recommended height is 2–2.5 cm. And if it is too flat, it will be necessary to drain the accumulated condensate more than once during cooking.

Additional functions

Sophisticated and expensive types of steamers can be equipped with additional features. In order to understand for ourselves their importance in the process of operation, let's figure it out in detail.

• Self-shutdown (auto shutdown). This function will secure the cooking process. When all the water has evaporated, the steamer will simply turn off. This way the food will not burn and nothing will burn. Under such conditions, you can safely leave the steamer unattended.
• Delayed start. This function allows, for example, to set a program in the morning, put food in and delay the start time. And you can also set the timer so that when you return from work, there is already prepared food waiting for you.
• Express steam. They are characterized by rapid steam formation, which will ensure fast cooking.
• The recipes are smart stand-alone cooking. Provides preparation of an independent dish according to the recipe already included in the device. The hostess only needs to lay out in the required amount specific ingredients and choose the right recipe.
• Function "topping up water in a container". This function provides the ability to top up water while cooking. Allows you not to interrupt the cooking process, and then turn it on again.
• "Maintaining the temperature" allows you to keep already cooked food warm for a long time - up to 13 hours.

Rating of the best manufacturers

When choosing a steamer, you should pay attention to the manufacturer. A trusted manufacturer provides the possibility of warranty service through existing network service centers... Many manufacturers, along with kits, produce additional accessories for steamers. In particular, bowls, baskets, pallets. Top most common trade marksrepresenting good options This technique will help guide you on how to choose a steamer for your home.

Tefal

Leading towards kitchen equipment... It has best reviews from both consumers and experts. The steamers of this company are characterized by spacious pallets and baskets, with non-stick coating... Most of the models are endowed with great functionality. The manufacturer is ready to offer an option in a different price category. From cheap to premium.

Philips

This company is ready to offer good steamers for three sections, which are characterized by high power and low price. At the same time, the steamers are made with maximum comfort for consumers. Equipped with a variety of handles (holders), compartments for seasoning, the ability to refill water and the like.

Moulinex

Represents good steamers, in particular, for two baskets, which also have the function of adding water.

Braun

A proven brand, for a reasonable price, it represents quality equipment. Some models of steamers have a dark bowl, which is important for products that can stain the container.

Scarlett

A cheap brand, however, decent in quality. Provides the necessary functionality and has an attractive design.

Conclusion

As it became known, steamers can be very diverse in different criteria... They all have their own characteristics, endowed with various functions and have their own advantages. Actually, a detailed description of all these options will help you make the right choice for your home. In particular, now we clearly know what types they can be, what functions they can accommodate, etc. Therefore, you can go to the supermarket aiming, for a double boiler with specific requirements for it.

The steamer is a special kitchen appliance designed to prepare healthy meals from fish, meat, vegetables and other products. Its main advantage is cooking without adding fat. Experts note one more important fact - food never burns in a double boiler. The products are processed with steam, thanks to which all the useful minerals, vitamins and other elements are preserved in them, as well as the percentage of animal fats and cholesterol is significantly reduced.

When choosing a quality steamer, you need to take into account a number of points, if they are not taken into account, then it will turn out to be not entirely suitable or not at all suitable for a particular housewife.

The main factors among these are the following:

• Control method: mechanical or electronic. In the first case, the model will cost significantly less, but the cooking temperature will need to be set manually. Electronic control makes the steamer more expensive, but it has much wider functionality. Usually there is a small display on the body, where the main cooking parameters are indicated;
• Power - basically ranges from 800 to 2000 watts. This parameter does not affect the quality of cooking, only the speed;
• The volume of the bowl is selected depending on the number of family members - for 3-4 people a 5-6 liter bowl will be enough;
• What the device is made of - the body and the bowl itself. In most cases, the case is plastic, however, stainless steel models can also be found. It is best if the lid is transparent - it will be much easier to follow the cooking process. The bowl is made from materials that can withstand high temperatures well;
• Design features - it is advisable to give preference to models that have a special funnel that allows you to add water directly during cooking;
• The set of the device - the more items it includes, the more expensive the steamer will cost. In the most expensive models, you can find cavities for boiling eggs, jars for storing spices, and so on;
• The presence of additional useful options - fast steam, the possibility of a delayed start, additional heating after the end of cooking, a timer;
• The company that made the product. It is best to give preference famous brands - they will break less often.

In our ranking of the best steamers, we have collected only the most reliable products that are perfect for most housewives. In compiling this top 10, we additionally took into account user and professional feedback, value for money. We hope that after reading the review, it will be much easier for you to choose the model that is ideal for your requirements.

List of the best steamer models of 2019

This is a small double boiler that will perfectly fit into the interior of a small kitchen. The volume of the bowl is only 3.5 liters - this allows you to cook about two medium portions of food. You will have to cook in it much more often, but the food will always be fresh. The power of the equipment is only 750 W, the set includes two removable bowls made of heat-resistant plastic that does not have any foreign smell. It is operated mechanically using the corresponding levers. There is a work indicator.

The volume of the water container is 0.7 l, and it begins to boil approximately 10 minutes after starting the device. The operation timer is designed for one hour of continuous operation, there is a system automatic shutdown, also provided reliable protection... The device will not start working when the lid is open, if there is no water in the container. The case has a high degree of thermal insulation, it will not heat up during operation, it is made of reliable plastic. The build quality is excellent, there are no extraneous squeaks even after several years of operation.

Benefits:

• Acceptable cost;
• Durability;
• Virtually silent;
• Automatic shutdown system.

Disadvantages:

• Mechanical control system;
• There is no funnel for adding water during operation;
• There is no thermostat and delayed start system.

This is enough modern design, which comes with two bowls for cooking various products, there is a condensation tray, a special container for rice, buckwheat and other cereals, as well as a container for coloring products such as beets. The model has two tiers, where food is directly prepared, and their total volume is 6.2 liters, the cereal container holds about 2 liters.

The device has a timer for one hour with subsequent automatic shutdown, a “fast steam” mode and an operation indicator. There is a special sensor that turns off the device in case of a lack of water. The body is made of plastic, food containers are also plastic. During storage, the device takes up the minimum amount of free space. Bowls are allowed to be placed in the dishwasher, there is a niche for storing the power cable.

Benefits:

• Reliability of assembly, which ensures the durability of the device;
• Attractive appearance;
• In case of an emergency or at the end of cooking, the device emits a special sound signal;
• Volumetric bowl for cereals;
• Ease of management;
• Significant power.

Disadvantages:

• No cavities for boiling eggs;
• During cooking, you will not be able to add water;
• There is no delayed start function.

This is a very convenient and practical model, complete with transparent bowls for food, which will allow you to observe the cooking process without interrupting it. This steamer is the first device with an electronic type of control - there is a small LCD display and a timer, an operation indicator.

There are as many as three tiers, so you can cook up to three dishes at the same time, the power of the device is 700 watts. The body is made of stainless steel, the assembly is of high quality - there are no backlashes, even after several years of regular use, the steamer will not emit extraneous sounds. The set includes a container for rice and a removable grid.

Benefits:

• Electronic control system;
• Build reliability;
• Convenient and complete set;
• Acceptable cost;
• Includes a recipe book.

Disadvantages:

• The cord is very short;
• Seals are not reliable everywhere - sometimes they lose their tightness;
• The display is not backlit.

This is a fairly compact, but at the same time, a roomy model with three levels for the simultaneous preparation of various dishes. For cooking, there are mesh bowls or trays where you can put your favorite sauce or marinade, which will make the food even more delicious. The model is manufactured on the basis of the latest patented compact storage technology.

The control here is digital, the equipment has a timer for one hour, after the end of cooking, the device will automatically turn off, but if necessary, it will maintain a high temperature of the food. The assembly is very high quality, all bowls, grates and other removable elements are allowed to be washed in the dishwasher. The water capacity has a volume of one and a half liters, which is quite enough for cooking three dishes at the same time. If there is not enough water, the device will turn off on its own, while emitting a sound signal.

Benefits:

• Works absolutely silently;
• Capacious pallets;
• Attractive appearance;
• Takes minimum free space;
• Prepares even complex dishes quickly.

Disadvantages:

• Heats water for a long time;
• The inner bowls are sometimes covered with a net of cracks;
• Unreliable plastic parts that quickly fail;
• Despite the electronic control, there is no display.

This is one of the top rated electronically controlled steamers. She looks very beautiful and has small dimensions... The device weighs only 2.3 kg, although it has three transparent plastic bowls at once. You can also cook with a removable bottom. The set includes a special nozzle with recesses for boiling eggs, there is also a small container for spices.

The device has the original Flavou Booster function, which evenly distributes spices throughout the inner volume of the bowl, giving the dishes a unique taste. After finishing cooking the food, the appliance will beep. The control is electronic, there are a huge number of different functions and automatic modes work that you can correct yourself. There is a Keep Warm system that keeps food hot for a long time, there is a funnel for adding water. The power of the device is 900 W, there is a reliable protection against overheating.

Benefits:

• The set includes a sufficient number of removable grates for various types of products;
• There is a liquid crystal display, a thermostat;
• The supply wire is quite long;
• Insignificant weight;
• A large number of additional functions.

Disadvantages:

• There is no delayed start system;
• If the food produces grease during cooking, it will drain into the lower tray.

This model has a special Vita Steam technology, which allows you not only to preserve all useful vitamins, trace elements and minerals, but also to cook with spices. At the expense of high level power, steam begins to form within 15 seconds after the start of the cooking program. The model has three bowls, located one above the other, their total volume is 11 liters. They are isolated from each other due to partitions made of heat-resistant silicone, which does not allow odors to penetrate from one bowl to another; they snap into place with the help of special groove-clips.

Electronic control with a convenient and intelligently understandable menu, which anyone can quickly figure out. There is a volumetric tray to collect condensate and fat, water is added to a special retractable mechanism without pauses in the cooking process.

Benefits:

• Cooking areas well isolated from each other;
• Large volume of each of the containers;
• Beautiful appearance and reliable assembly;
• High power level;
• Delayed start timer is provided.

Disadvantages:

• The grease tray is not very convenient to remove for cleaning;
• Short power cord.

In the top 10 best steamers, this model was in 4th place largely due to the presence of a large number of automatic cooking functions. In total, there are three tiers with a total volume of 11 liters of bowls, the water tank has a volume of 1.2 liters, the device has an automatic timer for one hour, which will emit a corresponding signal after the completion of cooking.

In addition, there is a corresponding indicator that lights up when there is a lack of water in the tank. The body is made of non-marking plastic, pallets are made of food grade stainless steel, bowls are made of transparent heat-resistant plastic. The device takes up little space during storage. The set includes a special bowl for preparing various cereals. The power of the device is 2 kW, due to which steam begins to form almost immediately after starting the cooking program.

Benefits:

• Very reliable build;
• There is a "fast steam" function;
• Good protection system against overheating, burnout and so on.

Disadvantages:

• Not all automatic cooking functions work as stated by the manufacturer;
• Sometimes the rim of the top cover may crack;
• The side is not convenient - because of it, pouring water into the tank can be problematic.

This model takes the honorable third place in our top 10 best steamers due to a number of advantages over the previously reviewed appliances. She, like most of the devices included in our rating, is equipped with three independent cooking zones. There is a special intellectual development IQ STEAM, which independently determines which foods need a longer heat treatment, respectively, they begin to cook earlier than others. With this function, all dishes will be cooked at approximately the same time.

There are seven automatic programs, and they can be adjusted manually. The control here is electronic, there is a convenient liquid crystal display that allows you to change the cooking temperature, choose the optimal time, and so on. When the dish is cooked, the device automatically switches to the heating mode, keeping the food temperature at the optimum up to 40 minutes. The device has reliable system safety, extending service life.

Benefits:

• The model is made of materials safe for human health, which also look attractive;
• The design is beautiful and ergonomic;
• The presence of a heating function;
• Construction reliability.

Disadvantages:

• Not too easy to wash;
• Large overall dimensions;
• Containers may crack if used frequently.

This is an inexpensive, but very high-quality and multifunctional steamer design, and it has everything you need to cook a large number of various dishes. There are two tiers of food preparation with a total volume of 2.5 liters, which is quite enough for a small family. The control is mechanical, but this does not affect convenience at all, there is a timer with an automatic shutdown system. It is designed for 60 minutes, there is a "quick steam" function that allows the device to warm up to the required temperature in just a few seconds.

The body is made of high quality plastic with a good thermal insulation system, the bowls are also made of transparent plastic. During storage, it takes up a minimum of free space. The power of the product is 800 W, there is a special bowl for cooking cereals, cavities for boiling eggs, a double boiler weighs little - about one and a half kilograms.

Benefits:

• Strong body;
• Attractive appearance;
• Takes up little space;
• Economical in terms of energy consumption;
• Acceptable price.

Disadvantages:

• There is no niche for storing the power cable;
• Some elements fade over time.

This is one of the newest models of steamers that appeared on the Russian market of household appliances relatively recently. For all its main characteristics, such a steamer is the best among all those presented in the review. It has only one tier, so you can only cook one dish in it. The control type here is electronic, there is a power indicator, a large touch screen. The capacity is as much as 15 liters, although the external dimensions are not that big.

The device has a convection function, due to which you can cook up to 15 different types of food. This opportunity will preserve the juiciness of meat, fish and other products due to the fact that heating is carried out as evenly as possible. The temperature is brought to one hundred degrees in just three minutes after starting, if necessary, you can even sterilize various items in a double boiler - baby bottles, dishes, and so on.

Benefits:

• High build quality;
• Excellent capacity;
• Long service life;
• Convection function;
• Large capacity.

Disadvantages:

• Apart from the high price, it was not found.

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