Different Types of Food Steamers

If you’re looking for a healthier way to cook your food while keeping its flavor and nutrients intact, steaming might be the answer. There are various types of food steamers available in the market for every kitchen, so you can easily find one to fit your preferences and lifestyle.

From electric countertops to eco-friendly bamboo options, the choices are endless. Electric steamers are perfect if you want convenience and versatility. On the other hand, bamboo steamers are eco-friendly and traditional, allowing gentle steaming of delicate foods.

Whatever your choice, cooking with steam is a healthier way of cooking, perfect for maintaining a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle.

Electric Countertop Steamers

If you’re looking for a convenient and versatile steaming option, look no further than electric countertop steamers. These easy-to-use steamers typically come equipped with a separate heating element and water reservoir, ensuring consistent steam for your cooking needs.

One of the main benefits of electric countertop steamers is their variety of forms. Rice cookers with steam functions are excellent for cooking perfect rice and steamed vegetables simultaneously.

Alternatively, pressure cookers with steam functions are ideal for faster, more convenient cooking times. Finally, multicookers with steam functions provide the flexibility of multiple cooking methods all in one appliance.

Take a look at the comparison table below to find out more about the features and benefits of each type of electric countertop steamer:

 Rice Cooker with Steam FunctionPressure Cooker with Steam FunctionMulticooker with Steam Function
Power SourceElectricElectricElectric
Heating ElementSeparate from Water ReservoirIntegratedIntegrated
Water ReservoirSeparate from Heating ElementIntegratedIntegrated
Cooking FeaturesRice, Vegetables, and MorePressure Cooking, Slow Cooking, Steaming, and MoreMulticooking, Steaming, and More
CapacityVaries, Typically 3-6 Cups of RiceVaries, Typically 3-8 QuartsVaries, Typically 6-8 Quarts
Additional FeaturesAutomatic shut-off, Keep Warm FunctionMultiple Pressure Settings, Safety FeaturesMultiple Cooking Functions, Programmable Settings

If you’re looking for a reliable and efficient way to cook your food, electric countertop steamers are an excellent choice. With their variety of forms and functionalities, they provide endless possibilities for healthy, flavorful cooking.

Stovetop Steamers

Steaming food on the stovetop is a traditional method that allows you to utilize your existing cookware. There are several types of stovetop steamers available, including:

Bamboo Steamers

Bamboo steamers are commonly used in woks or placed over pots for gentle steaming. These eco-friendly steamers are made of bamboo and are perfect for cooking veggies, dumplings, and seafood. The bamboo material allows the food to retain its natural flavors and moisture while cooking.

Stainless Steel Inserts

Stainless steel inserts with perforated bases can be placed inside pots, allowing you to use your existing cookware for steaming. These inserts provide stronger and more durable steaming options.

They are ideal for cooking large quantities of food and can be used to steam a variety of dishes such as vegetables, fish, and chicken.

Collapsible Silicone Steamers

Collapsible silicone steamers sit in the bottom of pots, offering a flexible option for steaming your food. These steamers are collapsible, making them easy to store and are also dishwasher safe. They are perfect for small kitchens or for those looking for a more versatile option.

Wok Inserts

Wok inserts are specifically designed for steaming and offer an effective way to cook food over high heat. They are perfect for cooking a range of dishes, from stir-fries to steamed fish. The wok insert ensures that the food is cooked evenly and quickly.

Stovetop Steamer

Overall, stovetop steamers provide a convenient and cost-effective solution for healthy cooking. With a variety of options available, you can choose a stovetop steamer that matches your cooking needs and preferences.

Microwave Steamers

Looking for quick and easy ways to steam your food? Microwave steamers could be the answer. These compact steamers are powered by your microwave and are designed to cook your food to perfection in just a matter of minutes.

Typically made of silicone or plastic, these steamers come with perforated trays or lids that allow the steam to circulate and cook the food, ensuring healthy and delicious meals every time.

Tip: Use silicone or plastic containers with perforated trays or lids, made specifically for the microwave, for optimal results. Follow the instructions carefully and adjust the cooking times and temperatures based on the wattage of your microwave for the best outcomes.

Tiered Steamers

If you’re looking for a versatile and efficient way to steam multiple foods at different rates, tiered steamers are a great form and function option.

These steamers consist of stackable baskets that allow you to prepare a variety of dishes simultaneously, with different cooking times. Simply place the ingredients in the appropriate basket and let them steam to perfection.

Tiered steamers are perfect for cooking a complete dinner with multiple courses, such as vegetables, rice, and fish or meat, altogether. They’re also great for batch cooking or meal prepping, allowing you to save time while still eating healthy.

Some models come with a plastic rice bowl, making it easy to prepare steamed rice in one basket, while cooking other ingredients in the remaining baskets. This saves valuable counter space and simplifies the preparation of your meal.

Whether you’re a busy parent or a seasoned chef, tiered steamers are ideal for anyone looking for efficient and effective cooking methods. With stackable baskets, steaming multiple foods has never been easier!

stackable baskets for steaming multiple foods at different rates

Single Basket Steamers

Single basket steamers offer a simple yet effective solution for cooking single items or smaller quantities of food. With their compact design, these steamers are perfect for individuals or smaller households. You can enjoy the benefits of healthy cooking with ease using these steamers.

single basket steamers

Their form and function allow for quick and convenient cooking, making them an excellent addition to any kitchen.

You can easily find single basket steamers that fit your budget and cooking needs. These steamers are versatile and can cook different types of food, including vegetables, meat, and fish.

If you are looking for simplicity and efficiency in your cooking, single basket steamers are the perfect choice. They are also easy to clean and store, making them an excellent investment for any home cook.

Pressure Steamers

If you’re looking for a steamer that not only saves time but also preserves the nutrients and flavors of your food, a pressure steamer is your solution. Pressure steamers use form and function to cook food with pressurized steam for faster cooking times.

How does it work?

Pressure cookers with steam function use sealed lids to trap the steam inside, creating higher pressures that cook food quicker than regular steamers. This method saves up to 70% of cooking time, making it perfect for busy individuals who value quick and healthy meal prep.

What can you cook with a pressure steamer?

Pretty much anything – from grains and vegetables to proteins and stews. The higher pressure and temperature speeds up the cooking process, while retaining more nutrients and flavors than other methods.

Pressure Cooker

“Pressure steamer? I was skeptical at first, but it has quickly become a staple in my kitchen. Not only does it cook my meals faster, but the texture and flavors are unbeatable.”

Convection Steamers

If you want perfectly cooked food every time, a convection steamer may be just what you need. These steamers utilize a circulating steam system, ensuring even cooking and consistent results. The steam is spread evenly t oughout the chamber, guaranteeing that food is cooked uniformly, no matter where it is in the steamer.

Convection steamers are an ideal choice for those who want to ensure that their food is cooked thoroughly, as they are particularly effective at cooking dense or tough foods, such as meat and vegetables. They are also perfect for preparing delicate foods that require a gentle touch, like fish and shellfish.

Some models of convection steamers even come equipped with additional features, such as programmable settings and digital displays, that allow you to customize your cooking experience and achieve optimal results every time.

Convection Steamer

Whether you’re a professional or a home cook, a convection steamer is a valuable addition to any kitchen. With its form and function, this type of steamer is an excellent choice for cooking evenly and healthily, ensuring that you and your family can enjoy delicious, nutritious meals every time.

Portable and Professional Steamers

If you’re looking for a steamer that is convenient and flexible for single servings, handheld steamers offer form and function in a compact size. These small, portable steamers are ideal for when you’re on the go or need to steam just a small amount of food.

On the other hand, professional steamers are designed for high-powered performance in commercial kitchens. These large steamers offer form and function to handle large capacities of food, making them perfect for restaurants, hotels, and other food-related businesses.

Whether you need a steamer for personal use or for a professional setting, there are many options available to suit your needs and preferences. Consider the form and function of each type of steamer to determine which one is the best fit for you.

Best In Footwear.

Hey Don't Forget About Your Feet! Click the image above - for an entire resource dedicated to the best footwear finds and advice!