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

Everyone knows that steamed food differs in its taste and useful properties from traditional food. Eating steam dishes is 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 concerned about diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. We will tell you how to choose a steamer in which you can cook many delicious and healthy dishes.

Steamer - a device necessary for cooking quality food

Why buy a steamer

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. traditional way- boil, fry, bake. For some reason, steamed foods were considered tasteless, and many people even sympathized with the "unfortunate" who had to eat only steam food. Now most housewives have appreciated the double boiler, and the appliance has taken pride of place in many kitchens. And not only because, the cult of a healthy diet and a healthy lifestyle has firmly penetrated our consciousness. A double boiler, preserving vitamins and microelements in products, cooks 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 her child. Upon their return, they will have a delicious and healthy lunch or dinner.

The principle of operation of the steamer

In short, food in a double boiler is cooked in a water bath. At the base of the device there is a special container for water. After turning on the steamer in the network, the heating element quickly brings the water to a boil. Steam is generated, which is fed into the bowls located below. Steam cooks food.

Uniform and fast cooking products occurs due to the fact that hot steam envelops the products from all sides. Another advantage of a double boiler is that it allows you to cook without the use of fats. This is very important for people who are 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, you should decide on the characteristics that this device must meet so that it is convenient for you to use it.

Whichever steamer you choose, remember that only soft water should be poured into the appliance. If you use tap water, it is advisable to pass it through a filter. Hard water contains dissolved calcium and magnesium salts, which, when water boils, turn into steam and settle on the walls of the double boiler 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 table vinegar into the double boiler and turning on the device in the operating mode.

Expensive models of double boilers have a reminder function to clean the walls of the appliance. There are models in which the electronic display displays information about the number of cooking cycles before the next cleaning of the appliance. 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 the middle and high price categories

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

Electromechanical is the simplest type of control, which has one advantage over electronic. To turn on the steamer, one turn of the handle is enough. Electronic steamers are equipped with a keypad, which has a small display that displays the selected modes. It will take longer to understand 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 managed to use both types of steamers are advised to choose mechanical appliances. First, they are cheaper. Secondly, they break less often. Third, the cooking time can be adjusted manually.

The electromechanical type of control is used in models of double boilers of 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.

Appliance power

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

Number and shape of steam baskets

An inexpensive one-bowl steamer is quite suitable for a small family with an average income

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

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

Bowls for cooking in the boil 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 needed for cooking large foods (fish or whole chicken, and oval bowls are better for these products 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 washing 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 bottom with a non-stick coating.

Number of pallets

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

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

It is highly desirable that the pallet be with 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 water, it is easy to get burned.

Water indicator and refill option

If there is not enough water in the Kenwood mechanical steamer, you can add it without turning off the device

Some models of steamers are equipped with an external water level indicator. This is very convenient, because you can always check whether there is enough water in the appliance to produce 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 several tiers or steaming meat or fish. There may not be enough water in the sump to operate the appliance for a long time.

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 double boilers (Braun, Unit). Most devices have this feature. These are Tefal, Kenwood, Moulinex, Atlanta, Binatone, Saturn, Scarlett, Morphy Richards, Viconte, Vitek, Unit steamers.

V expensive models an audible signal warns of the need to add water to the steamer. There are also built-in steamers in which all processes are automated, including monitoring the water level and topping it up. V right moment purified water comes from the water supply, and the condensate is safely discharged into the sewer.

Additional instrument 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 topping it up 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 feature 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 you not to turn off the steamer after the end of cooking. It can keep the dish warm for up to 12 hours. It is very convenient: you have gone for a walk, and by the time you return, a warm lunch will be waiting for you, 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 formed very quickly - depending on the model of the steamer, in 30-40 seconds. Manufacturers claim that more vitamins are preserved 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 cooking". Available only in double boilers with electronic control type. The manufacturer has stored several standard cooking recipes in the memory of the device. This is very convenient for those who do not know how to cook. It is enough to indicate the mass and the product, and the steamer will independently choose desired program;
• steamer operating status indicator. This function is available in all models, except for the cheapest steamers of unknown Chinese manufacturers. It is clear that it is not recommended to buy such: it is not known what quality the plastic is, in what condition electric wires;
• the indicator of time which is necessary for preparation of a dish and the digital display showing temperature of heating. The function is only in electronic double boilers;
• sound alarm about 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, the delivery sets usually include:

• container for garnish, grill or stand for boiling eggs (steamers Tefal, Moulinex, Binatone, Unit, Saturn, Scarlett, Vigor, Vitek);
• a special bowl for cooking rice (steamers Moulinex, Tefal, Kenwood, Atlanta, Binatone, Braun, Saturn, Scarlett, Viconte, Vitek, Unit);
• a special grate for cooking whole bulk products (Tefal steamer);
• trays for collecting drops of condensate (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 products during the cooking process (Vigor steamer);
• stand for steaming products that color other products (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 double boiler (books are included with many double boilers, but the Tefal appliance has the most voluminous one).

Other Benefits of Steamers

In many modern kitchen sets, it is possible 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 beneficial properties of the products, it can warm up a cold dish, pastries or bread.

Thanks to the double boiler, cold meat dishes can bring back the taste of freshly cooked ones. Cutlets and meat rolls will be juicy and very tasty.

In a double boiler, you can not only cook food, but also defrost it. Thawed food retains moisture (unlike microwave defrosting, where meat or fish dry out in some places).

In a steamer, you can quickly prepare yeast dough for pies by creating optimal conditions for his rise. You can also blanch vegetables, sterilize home canning jars and baby food utensils.

Choosing a steamer by price

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

Appliances whose price is up to 1000 rubles are considered low-price steamers. They are suitable for cooking simple dietary steamed dishes. In an average-priced double boiler (2-3 thousand rubles), you can cook meat and fish dishes, side dishes (cereals, pasta, scrambled eggs). They tend to have fairly large cooking containers, so you can cook a whole chicken or large fish in them.

Steamers of a high price range (3000 rubles and more) are double boilers and multicookers in which you can not only steam, but also stew, bake. Expensive double boilers can cook up to three dishes at the same time. But remember: the more dishes you cook, the more time it will take.

Expensive double boilers 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, models of desktop steamers are presented, the price of which is from 1000 to 6000 rubles. Models Moulinex, Kenwood, Scarlett, Unit can be purchased at a price of up to 1.5 thousand rubles. Steamers 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 eating 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, because, according to studies, long-term heat treatment products (especially for 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 try it. There is no doubt that you will be satisfied. After all, using this device is extremely easy: pour some water, put food, turn on the timer - and that's it, you are free. Go about your business until the 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. And in a double boiler, you can defrost food and prepare them for canning.

Beauty, brilliance, overseas names are integral elements of modern steamers. It is on them that buyers most often look, instead of scrupulously studying the main performance characteristics and useful features. We suggest choosing a device according to the filling, and not according to the shiny “wrapper” ...

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

The full list of "talents" of modern double boilers is quite large, but this is not a reason to miss anything. You need to know at least about their existence, otherwise you risk soon being disappointed in your purchase.

The algorithm of the steamer

The lower part of the steamer is reserved for the control unit, which can be represented as an ordinary regulator or 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 one 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 mode and cooking 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, the steamer must be able to automatically turn off if there is not enough water in it.

And now more about each function ...

Useful and nice features

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

• Adding water during cooking - convenient because you do not need to interrupt the process to add water to the tank, if necessary;
• Overheating protection is a vital thing, without which the device will definitely burn out one day;
• The water level indicator in the tank is a nice feature, but if there is 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 in your absence;
• The "Quick steam" function or its analogue - speeds up the cooking process (sometimes 2 times);
• Pre-installed "recipes" are convenient, and for some, they are extremely necessary, since you do not need to have a culinary gift with them (you only need to indicate the name of the product and its weight).

Important Features

There are only four defining parameters:

• Power. The lower bar is 400 W, the upper one is about 2000 W. The higher the power, the faster the food cooks. However, it is important to choose the optimal ratio of power and the 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.
• Number and capacity of bowls (baskets). The more bowls, the more dishes you can cook at once. At the same time, it would be nice to get a bowl for rice, in which you can cook any cereal. The volume of baskets is different - from 1 liter and more. Look at the needs of your family here.
• The number and volume of pallets. During cooking, juice from each dish is collected in the trays. If there is only one tray (at the very bottom), then the juice from the upper ones will drip onto the lower dishes, if there is a tray 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 5000 dollars, depending on its functions, characteristics and dimensions. Steamers can be built-in and desktop. Decent built-in options cost at least $1,000, while desktop options start at $20.

Finally

Pick up perfect option You can, but for this you need to objectively calculate the needs of your family. Well, as for the manufacturers, it's hard to guess. Whom you believe, buy from them ...

Rostislav Kuzmin

Good afternoon, dear readers. Steamed dishes are distinguished by their special usefulness and excellent taste. Such food is great for baby food, the diet of pregnant women, the elderly and people who care about their health. A double boiler will help in the preparation of healthy culinary products. In today's article, I will try to figure out how to choose a double boiler, what it is, what its functions and design features are.

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, which is why it is in great demand among people who appreciate healthy, tasty food.

The most frequently asked question that 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, so 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, budget unit.

TOP 6 best steamers of 2017

If you care about your health, nutrition, figure and are thinking about buying a steamer, then you need to find out how to choose a high-quality, productive device that is ready to cook healthy and tasty food quickly and tasty. Function sets modern devices so varied that it is difficult to make a choice. The most common functions include heat support, liquid level indicator, overheating protection, automatic shutdown. The equipment 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 these data, I chose the most popular 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 market of kitchen appliances?

Of course, those exist, the most popular budget devices include:

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

The best average steamers

If you are not satisfied with devices for rare use, and you are looking for an average steamer that has a good set of features, high quality and good looks, then this rating of the average category is for you.

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

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 indispensable assistants on the home kitchen in preparing healthy meals for the whole family.

Regardless of which device you choose, you will receive good friend guarding your health. If you still have any doubts about the benefits of cooking in a double boiler, welcome. On that positive note, it's time for us to say goodbye. I hope that the selection rules and the rating of the best double boilers of 2017 will help you decide and make the right choice. Subscribe, stay regular readers and invite your friends, I have many more useful information For you.

Thank you for your attention! See you again on my blog. Sincerely, Rostislav Kuzmin.

cool

Currently, steamers have taken their rightful place in our kitchen. Increasingly, we are turning to healthy lifestyle life with healthy eating at its base. Therefore, instead of fried and baked, we choose healthy steamed food.

Indeed, with this method of preparation, products retain as many vitamins as possible 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 the home?

What are steamers?

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

According to the installation method, devices are distinguished:

• Embedded.
• Autonomous.

The built-in type is very convenient in that it saves space, the device has a specially allotted corner. Usually embedded in kitchen set(tabletop), only food containers remain visible. In such options, buttons are placed on the sidebar. It also requires the installation of a nearby water tank. In appearance, this technique is somewhat similar to an electric stove.

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

The most primitive options include the functions:

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

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

Free-standing (autonomous) steamers. Their installation is very simple. Anywhere in the kitchen where there is access to a power outlet, you can install this unit.

In general, the main task it performs properly. However, its disadvantages are that the free-standing type is more likely to accidentally turn over in the fuss of cooking. And also in such double boilers more modest functionality.

Control method:

Mechanical - equipped with a button (on / off) and a rotary lever that regulates (sets) the time for cooking. They have an automatic shutdown after cooking is completed. Does the job well and is affordable.

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

Such a device will fully satisfy your wishes for an autonomous cooking process. It is necessary to prepare food and select a program for cooking. Subsequent control is not required, the unit will work in the required mode for the correct preparation of the dish without your participation. True, such double boilers are somewhat more expensive, but this is completely justified.

Naplitnye - the simplest mechanism. It is a high pan with several partitions on which products are laid out. Water is poured into the bottom of the pot. After that, such a double boiler is placed on a stove (gas or electric). From heating water, steam is released and steamed. The simplest and affordable way, but requires you to control the cooking process for readiness. For the price, these steamers are the cheapest.

How does it work and what can be prepared?

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

Steam cooking is a real pleasure. After all, with its help it is easy to cook 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.
• Reheat food or defrost 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, pay attention to its main technical characteristics.

1. Power strength. From this indicator will depend on the speed of cooking. In this type of technique, it varies from 600 to 200 watts.
2. The number of operating modes, programs. The main functions are absolutely sufficient for cooking, defrosting or reheating. However, their number can be much larger - 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. Number of containers. This is an important point when choosing a steamer. In particular, it depends on how much you can cook food. Approximately for a family of up to 3 people, 2-3 containers are enough. If the family is large and you are actively steaming a variety of foods, then you should choose more containers. But note that the more their number, the more powerful the technique should be. Keep in mind almost all kits have a container for cooking rice, but you can use it for different dishes (soup, porridge, pudding).
4. Number of pallets and their depth. The steamer may have one tray at the bottom. Or maybe separately installed under each container. This makes sense, having a separate tray for each basket prevents smells from mixing while cooking different dishes. The depth of the pallet matters. Its recommended height is 2–2.5 cm. And if it is too flat, then it will be necessary to drain the accumulated condensate more than once during cooking.

Additional functions

Complex and expensive types of steamers can be equipped with additional features. To understand for ourselves their importance in the process of operation, we will understand 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. Thus, the food will not burn, and nothing will catch fire. Under such conditions, you can safely leave the steamer unattended.
• Delayed start. This function makes it possible, for example, to set the program in the morning, load food and delay the switch-on time. And you can also set a timer so that when you return from work, already cooked food is waiting for you.
• Express steam. They are characterized by rapid formation of steam, which will ensure quick cooking.
• Recipes - smart offline cooking. Provides preparation of an independent dish according to the recipe already incorporated in the device. Mistresses only need to lay out in required quantity specific ingredients and choose the right recipe.
• "Adding water to the tank" function. This feature provides the ability to add water during cooking. Allows you not to interrupt the cooking process, and then turn it on again.
• "Keep warm" 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 proven 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, trays. Top most common trademarks representing good options This technique will help you navigate the question of how to choose a double boiler for your home.

Tefal

leading in the direction kitchen equipment. It has best reviews from both consumers and experts. The steamers of this company are characterized by capacious trays and baskets, with non-stick coating. Most models are endowed with great functionality. The manufacturer is ready to offer a variant of 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, steamers are made with maximum comfort for consumers. Equipped with a variety of handles (holders), spice compartments, the ability to add water and the like.

Moulinex

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

Brown

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

scarlett

Cheap brand, but decent quality. Provides the necessary functionality and has an attractive design.

Conclusion

As it became known, steamers can be very diverse in terms of different criteria. All of them 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 contain, etc. Therefore, you can go to the supermarket with a purpose, for a double boiler with specific requirements for it.

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

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

Chief among these factors are the following:

• Control method: mechanical or electronic. In the first case, the model will cost much 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 - mainly 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;
• Device kit - the more items it includes, the more expensive the steamer will cost. In the most expensive models, you can find recesses for boiling eggs, jars for storing spices, and so on;
• The presence of additional useful options - fast steam, the possibility of delayed start, additional heating after cooking, a timer;
• The company that made the product. It is best to prioritize famous brands- They break less often.

In our ranking of the best steamers, we have collected only the most reliable products that are perfect for most housewives. When compiling this top 10, we additionally took into account user and professional reviews, 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 steamer that will fit perfectly 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 servings 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. Operated mechanically with the help of appropriate levers. There is a work indicator.

The volume of the water tank is 0.7 l, and it starts to boil approximately 10 minutes after the device is started. The work timer is designed for one hour of continuous work, there is a system automatic shutdown, is also provided reliable protection. The device will not start working with the lid open, if there is no water in the tank. 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 at its best, there are no extraneous squeaks even after several years of operation.

Advantages:

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

Flaws:

• Mechanical control system;
• There is no funnel for adding water during operation;
• The thermostat and the delayed start system are not provided.

This is enough modern design, complete with two bowls for cooking various products, there is a condensate 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 direct cooking takes place, 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 "quick steam" mode and an operation indicator are provided. There is a special sensor that turns off the device in case of lack of water. The body is made of plastic, the food containers are also plastic. When stored, the device occupies a minimum amount of free space. The bowls can be placed in the dishwasher, there is a niche for storing the power cable.

Advantages:

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

Flaws:

• There are no recesses for boiling eggs;
• During cooking, it will not be possible to add water;
• There is no delayed start function.

This is a very convenient and practical model, complete with transparent food bowls, 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 liquid crystal display and a timer, an operation indicator.

There are as many as three tiers here, so you can cook up to three dishes at the same time, the power of the device is 700 watts. The case 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 make extraneous sounds. The set includes a container for rice and a removable grill.

Advantages:

• Electronic control system;
• Assembly reliability;
• Convenient and complete equipment;
• Acceptable cost;
• The set includes a recipe book.

Flaws:

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

This is a fairly compact, but at the same time, roomy model, which has 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 tastier. The model is produced on the basis of the latest patented compact storage technology.

The control here is of a digital type, 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 can 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 automatically turn off, emitting an audible signal.

Advantages:

• Works absolutely silently;
• Spacious pallets;
• Attractive appearance;
• Occupies a minimum free space;
• Prepares even complex dishes quickly.

Flaws:

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

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

The device has an original Flavou Booster function, which evenly distributes spices throughout the internal volume of the bowl, giving dishes a unique taste. After cooking is completed, the appliance will emit a beep. Electronic control, 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.

Advantages:

• The kit includes a sufficient number of removable grills for various types of products;
• There is a liquid crystal display, a thermostat;
• The power cable is quite long;
• Insignificant weight;
• A large number of additional features.

Flaws:

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

This model has a special Vita Steam technology, which allows you not only to save all the useful vitamins, trace elements and minerals, but also to cook with spices. Due high level steam starts to form already 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 slots-clamps.

Electronic control with a convenient and intelligently understandable menu that anyone can quickly figure out. To collect condensate and fat there is a volumetric tray, water is added to a special retractable mechanism no pauses in the cooking process.

Advantages:

• Well-isolated cooking zones;
• Large volume of each of the containers;
• Beautiful appearance and reliable assembly;
• High power level;
• There is a delayed start timer.

Flaws:

• The fat 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 bowls of 11 liters, the water tank has a volume of 1.2 liters, the device has an automatic timer for one hour, which, after cooking is completed, will emit an appropriate signal.

In addition, there is a corresponding indicator that lights up when there is not enough water in the tank. The body is made of non-staining plastic, the trays are made of food-grade stainless steel, the bowls are made of transparent heat-resistant plastic. The device takes up little space during storage. The set comes with a special bowl for preparing various cereals. The power of the device is 2 kW, due to which steam begins to form almost instantly after starting the cooking program.

Advantages:

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

Flaws:

• Not all auto cook functions work as advertised 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 an honorable third place in our top 10 best steamers due to a number of advantages over previously discussed devices. 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 products need a longer heat treatment, respectively, they begin to cook before the rest. Due to this function, all dishes will be cooked at about 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, select the optimal time, and so on. When the dish is cooked, the device automatically switches to the warming mode, keeping the food at the optimum temperature for up to 40 minutes. The device has reliable system safety, extending the service life.

Advantages:

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

Flaws:

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

This is an inexpensive, but very high-quality and multifunctional design of a double boiler, 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 you to warm up the device 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. Takes up minimal space during storage. The power of the product is 800 W, there is a special bowl for cooking cereals, recesses for boiling eggs, the steamer weighs little - about one and a half kilograms.

Advantages:

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

Flaws:

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

This is one of the newest models of double boilers, which appeared on the Russian market of household appliances relatively recently. For all its main characteristics, such a double boiler is the best among all presented in the review. It has only one tier, so you can cook only one dish in it. The type of control here is electronic, there is a power indicator, a large touch display. 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 dishes. This feature 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.

Advantages:

• High build quality;
• Superior capacity;
• Long service life;
• convection function;
• Large capacity.

Flaws:

• In addition to the high price was not found.

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