Our Top Picks
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Best Overall: Instant Pot 113-0045-01
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Best Budget: Oster Double Tiered Food Steamer (5713)
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Best for Large Capacity: Cuisinart STM-1000
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Best for Versatility: Hamilton Beach 37530A
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Best for Portability: BELLA Two Tier 13872
Buying Guide
• Capacity – How many servings do you want to cook at a time? Steam cookers come in different sizes, from single serve to large commercial sized units. Choose a capacity that matches your typical cooking needs.
• Stainless steel vs non-stick coating – Stainless steel steamers are durable but can be more difficult to clean. Non-stick coatings make food easier to release and cleaning simpler. It depends on your priorities.
• Tiered vs flat base – A tiered steamer allows you to cook more food at once at different levels. A flat steamer only has one level. Tiered steamers take up more space but can be more versatile.
• Material – Stainless steel or anodized aluminum are common materials for steamers and cookers. Stainless steel is durable but aluminum is lighter weight and can distribute heat more evenly for better cooking results.
• Temperature controls – Some steamers have built-in temperature controls or settings, while others just have an on/off switch. Temperature controls provide more precision and allow you to adjust the temperature to different food types.
• Features – Consider additional useful features like automatic shutoff, locking lid, cord storage, BPA-free construction, etc. depending on your specific needs.
• Brand reputation – Look for a steamer from a brand that is known for high quality kitchen appliances. Top rated brands include Cuisinart, Instant Pot, Omega, and Anolon.
• Price – Steamers range from $20 up to $200 or more for commercial models. Set a budget and stick to reputable brands within your price range.
• Reviews – Check buyer reviews online to determine real-world pros, cons, performance, ease of use and durability of the steamers that interest you. Look for mostly positive reviews.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What can I cook in a steam cooker?
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Rice, quinoa, grains – Steam cookers are great for cooking grains.
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Vegetables – Broccoli, carrots, spinach, cabbage, etc. Steam cooking preserves nutrients.
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Fish and seafood – Steam cooking gently cooks delicate fish and seafood while keeping it moist.
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Dumplings – Steam cookers are ideal for steaming dumplings, buns and potstickers.
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Chicken – You can steam chicken breasts, thighs, drumsticks and even whole chicken.
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Soup – Add broth and aromatics to a steam cooker for an easy delicious soup.
2. Can steam cookers be used for other purposes?
Some steam cookers may have additional functions, such as slow cooking, sautéing, or baking. It's important to check the manufacturer's specifications and instructions to determine the capabilities of your particular steam cooker.
3. Are steam cookers healthy?
Steam cookers are generally considered a healthy cooking method, as they do not require any oil or fat and can help preserve the nutrients in the food. However, it's important to choose healthy ingredients and to avoid adding excessive amounts of salt or other seasonings.
Final Thought
Investing in a high-quality steam cooker is a great way to improve your cooking and eating habits. By choosing the best one for your needs, you can enjoy delicious and nutritious meals with ease.
Whether you're looking for a versatile option like the Instant Pot or an affordable option like the Hamilton Beach Digital Steamer, there's a steam cooker out there for everyone.
