How to choose the right steamer?

The principles of healthy eating are becoming a real trend, today you can eat so as not to harm your body. However, I want the food to be not only healthy, but also very tasty. A double boiler does an excellent job with this. On the market for kitchen appliances, the choice is quite large today. In order not to get confused and choose the best option, you need to study all types of steamers and choose the ideal one for yourself.

The steamer is a fairly simple device and not entirely new. It works according to the principle of Soviet mantle cookers, which were once in every home. The water that heats up at the bottom generates steam upward, which processes the products and brings them to readiness. In modern steamers, the function of the heater is performed by special elements powered by the electrical network. At the same time, the effect on the product is minimal; most of the nutrients are retained in it.

Devices in several tiers are very popular, allowing you to cook more food or different products at the same time. At the same time, do not forget that the lower tier is steamed more intensively, therefore, the cooking time is reduced. The modern range of steamers is diverse. They differ in form:

• oval;
• round.

By material:

• plastic is lightweight, inexpensive;
• metal is more durable and practical.

Also, the devices differ in the number of tier compartments. There are devices with a minimum number of compartments, but more functional with several tiers. They allow you to cook side dish and poultry, fish, meat at the same time.True, in this case, you need to take care of such an addition - like pallets, otherwise the products will be saturated with each other's smell and juice. Another way to subdivide steamers is mobility... Most of the appliances are of a stand-alone type, but there are also built-in models.

The number of steamer manufacturers is as impressive as the range of kitchen gadgets. Reviews are published regularly, in which you can evaluate the merits of a particular model of almost any company. Today you can buy decent devices of both foreign (Chinese, German) and domestic brands.

The following options can be included in the top of the best models.

This device is quite miniature, it will decorate any kitchen interior. The steamer is suitable for a family of no more than 2-3 people, since its volume (3.5 liters) will not allow cooking more than 2-3 servings of food. Of course, you will have to cook every day, but you will only eat fresh food. Model characteristics:

• not too serious power - 750 watts;
• number of removable containers - 2 pcs;
• the material for making the bowls is heat-resistant plastic, which does not smell when heated;
• mechanical control, very simple, there is an indicator by which you can monitor the readiness;
• water is placed in 700 ml containers;
• boiling time no more than 10 minutes;
• the device is equipped with an hour timer;
• the safety of the device is thought out very well, it will not work if the lid is not closed or you forget to pour water;
• the thermal insulation of the plastic materials of the case is very high, it does not heat up during operation;
• the assembly is of high quality, everything functions properly, does not creak.

Among the advantages:

• budget price;
• long service life;
• does not make loud noises during operation;
• safe.

There are also disadvantages:

• mechanical control;
• there is no way to postpone the launch;
• no thermostat;
• you can not add water if it runs out.

Modern model, comfortable, handy with two removable bowls for cooking. In addition, the kit includes:

• drip tray where condensate flows;
• a special two-liter cup for bulk products;
• a separate bowl for coloring products - beets, carrots;
• two tiers with a volume of more than 6 liters.

The steamer is equipped with an hour timer, an auto shut-off system, an indicator that monitors the process. The shutdown sensor will be triggered if the water level is below the required mark.

Pros of the model:

• excellent assembly, the steamer has a long working life;
• Beautiful design;
• the device is safe, especially in case of a malfunction, it gives a special signal;
• good volume;
• comfortable control panel;
• high power.

Minuses:

• there are no additional devices, for example, for boiling eggs;
• you cannot add water in the process;
• there is no delayed start button.

The model is practical and comfortable to use. The cooking pots are made of transparent plastic, which allows you to watch the food being prepared. The equipment of the steamer is modern and makes it possible to enjoy the operation:

• electronic control type;
• there is a liquid crystal display;
• work indicators;
• three tiers with removable drawers;
• power - 700 watts;
• stainless steel model body;
• high build quality ensuring durability of use;
• noiselessness;
• there is a container for cereals and a grill that can be removed.

The advantages of this model:

• electronic control;
• the assembly is very reliable;
• adequate price;
• a book with recipes in a double boiler;
• good equipment.

A successful unit, small and roomy at the same time. there are three tiers in which you can cook, you can put the bowls in trays or nets.Takes up very little storage space. The steamer is controlled automatically, there is a timer, the ability to maintain the temperature of the food. High quality build, dishwasher safe. If the water runs out, the device will give an appropriate signal.

Advantages:

• noiselessness of work;
• quite capacious containers and pallets;
• Beautiful design;
• does not take up much space during storage;
• food is cooked very quickly.

Among the units equipped with electronic controls, this is one of the best models. Besides, a significant plus - miniature size and effective modern design. The steamer weighs a little more than 2 kg, despite the provided three tiers and removable transparent bowls. There is a removable bottom, a device for boiling eggs, a container for spices. The steamer has a function that distributes seasonings evenly throughout the container, giving the dishes a special taste and aroma.

The security system is well thought out, the use is comfortable. Upon cooking, you will be attracted to the steamer by a corresponding signal, the control panel is very convenient, there are automatic modes and manual adjustments.

During cooking, you can add water or make it so that even after cooking it remains hot and does not allow the dish to cool down. There is no need to be afraid that the device will overheat. Power - 900 watts.

Among the advantages are:

• the presence of a thermostat, a convenient display;
• the length of the wire allows you to install the device where you are more comfortable;
• there are removable grids for products;
• the device is very light;
• excellent functionality.

There are also disadvantages:

• there is no way to put the device on a delayed start;
• dripping fat falls into the tray below, no special tray is provided.

There are three independent cooking containers. The appliance is so modern and well thought-out that the steamer itself can decide which foods need to be processed longer. It is possible to set a delayed start, and the dishes will be cooked at the same time. Large selection of programs and cooking modes, a very comfortable electronic display. After the dish is cooked, it will automatically reheat until you decide to serve it. The device is as safe as possible.

Dignity:

• Beautiful design,
• device safety;
• ergonomics;
• there is a possibility to warm up food.

The price of this device is quite low, the assembly is very reliable, there is a choice of functions. Volume - 2.5 liters, 2 removable containers for cooking. It is an ideal choice for a small family. Automatic control, there is a timer, thanks to which you can not worry about forgetting to turn off the steamer. The very useful quick steam function allows you to heat up water in a matter of seconds.

The device is not too large, the bowls are transparent, high quality plastic. It is possible to boil eggs, cook cereals in special devices.

Advantages:

• light weight;
• sturdy construction;
• Beautiful design;
• ergonomics;
• affordable price.

There is only one tier in this steamer, it is electronically controlled, there is an on indicator, a large sensor, convection, which ensures uniform heating. Despite its small size, the volume is excellent - 15 liters. Water boils instantly, there is a possibility of sterilization.

Advantages:

• excellent build;
• good capacity;
• convection.

To choose the right steamer for your home, there are some guidelines to consider.First of all, determine the criteria that are important for you, and focus on them when choosing. Usually pay attention to the following factors.

1. Tiers. More precisely, their number is a very important nuance. Determine how important it is for you to cook 2-3 dishes at the same time, based on this, make a choice. Remember that cooking different foods at the same time saves time but also requires different processing times. How do you manage to combine it without sacrificing taste?
2. Power. A very serious criterion by which you can evaluate the functionality and performance of a steamer. Power can vary from 400 watts to 5 kilowatts. The lower the power, the longer the food takes to cook. There is a risk that they will fall apart in the long process. Be sure to match the wiring options in your home.
3. Multifunctionality and ease of management. It does not matter whether the control will be mechanical or electronic, the main thing is that it is simple and comfortable for you. Mechanics are more reliable, electronics are more convenient. In terms of functionality, personal preference plays a big role here. The hostess's life is made very easy: timer, delayed start, auto shut-off, power regulators and control indicators.

Mostly the reviews about the steamers are positive. These are quite reliable devices, durable, do not require long mastering. Many users find that the funnel for adding water during the cooking process is very helpful. Mechanical steamers are the least likely to break down.

For information on how to choose a steamer, see the next video.