Food Steamers

What Is a Food Steamer? 

An electric food steamer is a kitchen appliance designed to cook food using steam. It typically consists of a base unit with a heating element, a water reservoir, and one or more stacking trays or baskets where the food is placed. The appliance heats water to create steam, which then rises through the trays, cooking the food evenly while preserving its nutrients and natural flavours.

Food steamers are particularly useful for cooking vegetables, fish, and poultry, as the steam helps retain their moisture and texture without adding fat or oil. Some models come with additional features like timers, temperature controls, and multiple tiers to accommodate different types of food simultaneously.

What Can You Make With a Food Steamer? 

A steam cooker is versatile and can be used to prepare a wide variety of dishes. Here’s what you can make with it:

1. Vegetables: Steam vegetables like broccoli, carrots, green beans, and cauliflower, preserving their colour, texture, and nutrients.

2. Fish and Seafood: Steam fish fillets, shrimp, or mussels for a healthy, tender meal.

3. Poultry: Cook chicken breasts or thighs, keeping them moist and flavourful.

4. Rice: Prepare fluffy, perfectly cooked rice or other grains.

5. Dumplings: Steam dumplings or bao buns for a delicious, soft texture.

6. Desserts: Make steamed puddings or cakes, which have a moist and tender crumb.

7. Eggs: Cook soft or hard-boiled eggs with minimal fuss.

8. Meatballs: Steam meatballs for a healthy alternative to frying or baking.

9. Tofu: Prepare tofu for stir-fries or salads by steaming it to improve its texture.

Using a vegetable steamer can help maintain the nutritional value of your ingredients while providing a gentle and even cooking method.

Is a Food Steamer Worth It?

Yes, a food steamer is worth it if you value healthy and convenient cooking methods. It offers several advantages:

1. Nutrient Retention: Steaming preserves more vitamins and minerals in vegetables and other foods compared to boiling, making it a healthier cooking option.

2. Low-Fat Cooking: It allows you to prepare meals without added fats or oils, which is beneficial for low-fat and low-calorie diets.

3. Even Cooking: Steamers cook food evenly and thoroughly, ensuring consistent results.

4. Versatility: You can use a food steamer to prepare a wide variety of foods, from vegetables and fish to rice and desserts.

5. Convenience: Many steamers come with multiple tiers, allowing you to cook different items simultaneously, saving time and effort in the kitchen.

If you frequently prepare healthy meals or enjoy the convenience of cooking multiple dishes at once, a food steamer can be a valuable addition to your kitchen.