How powerful should the steamer be? How to choose the right steamer (expert advice, video Test purchase)

15.06.2019

Power

This figure can vary from 400 to 2000 watts. It affects the speed and volume of cooking. Do not forget that the lower the power, the slower the cooking, which means that it is unlikely that you will be able to save a lot of money.

Number of baskets

When purchasing a steamer, be sure to pay attention to given parameter. Preferably, the cooking containers should be independent. The more of them, the more dishes you can cook at the same time. At the same time, the quality of cooking in a 4-container steamer is lower than, for example, in a two-container one, since such a simple device is simply not able to accurately calculate the different heating of the zones. Execution material big role does not play if it is of high quality. Stainless steel and plastic have both pros and cons.

Which brand steamer is better?

Now most companies have their branches in China, where they produce Appliances. So the brand in most cases is just a memory of the old glory days of European high-quality production. Therefore, when purchasing, it is better to focus not on beautiful inscription on the case, but on customer reviews. Happy shopping!

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 ...

A double boiler is an indispensable assistant in cooking tasty and healthy dishes enriched with vitamins and nutrients. With a steamer, you can forget about “tasteless” boiled diets and unhealthy fried foods, and boldly switch to healthy food steamed in its own juice. With the help of a double boiler, you can cook first courses, side dishes, amazing meats and even desserts at the same time, significantly saving valuable time and effort.

If you have never used a double boiler or want to change your old assistant to a more efficient new one, you should pay attention to the types of double boilers (in this article we will talk about electric double boilers):

— desktop steamers- the heroes of our ranking of the best steamers 2019. Used at home, easy to use, have a simplified, intuitive interface.

There are a lot of parameters for selecting steamers, so you should familiarize yourself with the main technical characteristics:

Complete set of this device:

Base– main working part, a heating element and a container for water, which is later converted into steam.
cells- the so-called steam baskets - round (less often - oval) bowls with a perforated bottom, into which products are loaded. Usually there are 2-3 cells in a double boiler, they are installed one on top of the other, then covered with a lid.

1-2 baskets are suitable for a small family, 3 for a large one. When choosing, it is worth considering the direct dependence of the cooking speed on the number of cells: the fewer there are, the faster time cooking.

Usually, a steamer also comes with a “rice bowl” - a special container for cooking cereals and soups.

The average volume of a cooking bowl ranges from 1.5 to 4 liters, rice bowls - from 0.7 to 2 liters. Particular attention should be paid to the volume of containers for cereals and soups.

Glass or stainless steel bowls are considered the best variety. In glass and metal, food keeps the temperature faster, plastic is more unstable to temperature changes, and breaks more often.

Pallet for condensate and broth flowing from the cells during cooking. Pulling out a tray covered with droplets of fatty hot broth and pouring condensate out of it is a very complicated and long process. That is why the size of the pallet is one of the fundamental factors in choosing double boilers. The most optimal height- 2-3 centimeters.

Another an important factor the choice of the pallet is the presence of handles in it. The absence of handles makes short (up to 2 cm) pallets dangerous for the user: when emptying a hot tank, it is very easy to get burned.

Water level indicator

The function of the signal about the complete boiling of water is rather imperfect: usually the steamer starts beeping 5-10 minutes after boiling, during which time the dish may partially deteriorate. Thanks to the visible water indicator, you can observe the liquid level and adjust it (for example, add water through a special hole).

Reservoir for topping up water during operation

Some designs do not have a special hole for adding liquid, so during operation you have to turn off and disassemble the steamer. Models that support the function of raising the liquid level right during the operation of the device are more in demand.

Power- the speed of cooking directly depends on the power. In ordinary home steamers, the power is not lower than 600 watts and not higher than 2000 watts.

Control type:

Mechanical– all modes are set manually by manipulating the buttons. One of the advantages is a quick start and ease of setting the cooking time.
Electronic- the steamer is equipped with buttons and an electronic board, which displays information about ongoing processes. This equipment outperforms the previous one due to the expanded functionality and the option of heating the dish after cooking.

Operating modes:

Steam cooking.
Defrosting (with steam).
Steam boost - sterilization (heating) of food.
Additional modes (in more expensive models).

Manufacturer:

Of course, the brand is not always equal to quality, but most well-known companies try to maintain a decent level of quality from year to year, providing the user with quality service and, in the event of a breakdown, troubleshooting.

Rating of the best steamers 2019

5th place - ENDEVER Vita 160/161 (1340 rubles)

ENDEVER Vita 160/161 is a very nice and compact steamer. This model belongs to the budget, so it does not have a condensate pan, you can’t cook cereals in it either. Suitable for attentive housewives who know how to handle appliances with care. When the water boils, it will automatically shut off.

Specifications:

Power consumption: 800 W;
Number of tiers: 2;
Control type: mechanical;
Housing: plastic;
Steam baskets: transparent plastic;
Dimensions: 230*265*215 mm.

Extra options:

inclusion indication;
defrost function;
dish disinfection;
There is a choice of colors: green, white, gray.

Pros:

low price;
the convenience of use;
powerful, fast cooking;
there is an emergency shutdown;
attractive design;
compactness.

Minuses:

Small;
Mechanical;
has only 2 tiers;
difficult to wash;
water warms up for a long time;
plastic containers made of thin plastic;
no container for rice / cereals;
do not add water during cooking;
a mechanical timer requires careful handling;
there is no drip tray for draining condensate and fat (a significant minus).

4th place - Dobrynya DO-3201 (from 1,800 rubles)

Steamers "Dobrynya" are remembered by users for their simplicity, affordable price and "good" quality of work. Very simple and accessible interface; despite the fact that there are only 2 cells, they are not inferior in volume to systems with 3 cells. They are chosen mainly by undemanding economical housewives for several years to come. Of the minuses - fragility, the power of such a double boiler is enough for only a few years of operation in medium mode. However, if you use a double boiler much less often than a frying pan, then this option is just for you.

Specifications:

Power consumption: 600W
Number of tiers: 2
Control type: mechanical (rotary switches)
Timer: 60 minutes, auto power off
Housing: plastic
Steam baskets: plastic

Extra options:

recesses for boiling eggs;
rice bowl with a volume of 1000 ml.

Pros:

suitable for a large family;
good price with above average quality.

Minuses:

no display;
there is no delay start;
only two tiers for cooking;
fragility.

3rd place - Tefal VC1451 (4920 rubles)

In this model, Tefal pleased customers with steel bowls, they are the main advantage of this fairly simple and compact steamer.

The water level indicator shows when topping up is required, and this can be done without switching off the working steamer. An audible signal will let you know when the dish is ready.

In addition to traditional steamed dishes, Tefal VC1451 has the ability to cook rice, other cereals or soup. On the body there are convenient tips for choosing temperatures for cooking various products.

Specifications:

Power consumption: 860-900W;
Number of tiers: 2;
Control type: mechanical;
Timer: 60 min, with shutdown;
Housing: plastic;
Steam baskets: stainless steel;
Dimensions: 335×275×205 mm;
The total volume of bowls is 6 l (3+3 l);
Water tank - 1.5 liters.

Extra options:

water level indication;
interchangeable baskets;
two separators;
rice bowl included;
descaling system;
adding water during cooking.

Pros:

attractive price;
steel bowls;
high power;
the quality of food preparation;
quality assembly;
easy to clean and assemble;
compact and easy storage.

Minuses:

small;
mechanical;
has only 2 tiers;
the new steamer smells like plastic;
stains remain on metal bowls and dividers after washing;
the timer must not be turned off manually, as this may damage the steamer;
imperfect descaling system;
no thermostat;
no cookbook included.

2nd place - Philips HD9190 (from 11,990 rubles)

Modern, powerful, reliable, multifunctional – the steamer from Philips is ready for anything for you. With its help, you can create real culinary masterpieces and delight your loved ones with them. Its virtues are most clearly manifested in big family where it is necessary to prepare a maximum of tasty, nutritious and healthy food in a short time. The price justifies the quality.

Specifications:

Power consumption: 2000W
Number of tiers: 3
Control type: electronic
Case: stainless steel
Steam baskets: transparent plastic
Included:
- container for adding herbs and spices;
- soup bowl.

Extra options:

rice bowl with a volume of 1100 ml;
water level indicator;
inclusion indication;
removable grids;
topping up water during work;
sound signal;
shutdown in case of lack of water;
recesses for boiling eggs;
auto-cooking;
thermostat;

Pros:

the presence of a display;
compact storage;
cable storage compartment;
a special compartment for adding spices (simplifies cooking and evenly distributes spices in the dish);
comfortable and roomy bowls;
Lots of extra features compared to previous models.

Minuses:

short-lived plastic bowls;
lack of a condensate tray for the entire cooking session;
uneven cooking with different temperatures(for example, fresh minced meat and frozen vegetables);
the water level is not visible;
software slows down.

1st place - Tefal VC 3008 Steam'n'light (from 6,750 rubles)

Better - only built-in double boilers. From them, this model took all its indispensable functionality, which is suitable as experienced hostess, and the chef in the restaurant. The most pleasant addition that inclines buyers to choose this particular model is the ability to bake muffins and muffins from any material with any filling and any taste - they will all be equally perfect, like from a pastry counter. Cooking muffins and muffins;

easy to clean;

intuitive interface;

odors from different cells do not mix;

automatic shutdown and heating for half an hour after shutdown;

you can cook several dishes at once;

high quality.

Minuses:

no display;
no delay start;
overcharge;
there is no signal about the complete evaporation of water;
the dough is not always baked;
bottom latches break quickly;
it is difficult to fully assemble the entire system (the bowls slide and hardly enter the grooves);
the bottoms are inconvenient to wash;
the water level is not visible.

Summing up

Steamers open up a sea of opportunities for housewives to create culinary masterpieces or the most healthy dishes. Modest and frugal Russians most often choose inexpensive, simple and reliable models that do well with constant loads; the choice of improvisers who need a steamer to expand their creative culinary activities falls on more powerful and professional models; business, constantly in a hurry users will suit powerful volumetric double boilers with the possibility of a delayed start and auto-cooking modes. In our ranking of the best steamers in 2018, you will find the model that suits you best.

Who else will help modern kitchen? In terms of "warm up in a quick way", of course. Modern ones can become more and more every year at an affordable price, and the novelty in the form will really become indispensable assistant young mother. The main thing that is important is not only the quality of the products for cooking, but also, it would seem, banal water: you can wash the dishes under tap water, but it is recommended to cook on. Be healthy!

Updated January 2019

Use healthy food today is not only useful, but also fashionable. Appliances that help us prepare delicious, varied and harmless meals have flooded the domestic market, and it can be difficult for an ordinary consumer to navigate this variety. Fortunately, our experts are not asleep - we are ready to tell you which steamer is the best according to the rating of 2017-2018, based on user reviews and statistics of selling sites.

A few words about the device itself

A steamer is a fairly simple device. Water is poured into the bottom tank. Heating elements boil water, after which it turns into steam and affects the products that are placed on the upper tiers. The products retain all their beneficial features and original flavors. No cholesterol or carcinogens.

It’s good if your steamer has the ability to rearrange food baskets - for example, you can speed up cooking if you move the top tier to the very bottom, where the temperature and intensity of steam exposure are much higher.

Types of steamers

Steamers are round and oval. Designed for different volumes - from 0.2 to 40 liters. Made of plastic or metal. The former are light and cheap, the latter are practical and durable. Some models of food baskets have removable bottoms - this is very convenient if you often steam poultry.

Steamers also differ in the number of tiers. The more of them - the more functional the device becomes - you can cook several different dishes at the same time. For example, meat and a side dish for it. If you plan to cook several dishes at the same time - look for steamers with separate trays for each tier - this way you will prevent the mixing of taste and smell of products and you will be able to prepare a complete set meal with dessert.

And, of course, you should not ignore the division into stand-alone and built-in devices. For those who pay special attention appearance of your kitchen, hidden behind a neat furniture facade, a double boiler will become both a reliable and inconspicuous household helper.

What you should pay attention to in the store - which steamer is better to buy? Here are a few simple tips to help you right choice. Also, it was these criteria that served as the determining factors for those models of steamers that were included in our rating of the best.

Power is the primary indicator that will help you choose a functional and productive model. The range of indicators is from 400 W to 5 kW. The higher the power, the better, then the products cook faster and do not risk falling apart. However, remember - your wiring must withstand such loads.
The number of tiers. Requires special attention to this parameter. On the one hand, a larger number of baskets will allow you to cook several dishes at the same time, and this will save time and effort. But on the other hand, calculating the correct time it will take to cook food at different heights is a rather difficult task, especially for a novice cook.
Management and functionality. As with any appliance, you can control the operation of steamers using mechanical or electronic controls. The mechanics are simple and reliable. Electronics - more versatile and convenient. Which steamer is right for you depends on your personal preferences. Functional different models can also be standard or extended. Delay start, timer, automatic shutdown, power controls, operation indicators - this is what is needed for the comfortable use of such a device at home.

Well, now is the time to find out which steamer is the best in 2018.

Rating of the most successful models of steamers

We will consider the most popular models of steamers in ascending order of price and tell you about both the advantages and disadvantages, if any, were described in consumer reviews.

Tefal VC 1006 Ultra Compact

This is a model that attracts attention, primarily due to its low cost and excellent build quality. It has 3 tiers, volume - 9 liters, power - 900 watts. Of the possibilities - a timer for 60 minutes, auto-off, cooking and defrosting food, sterilizing dishes. Of the shortcomings - you can not add water during the operation of the device, and there is no delay start. But in general, the feedback from the owners is positive, they note such advantages: good volume; simple control; convenient to wash, basically, only a removable bottom.

Zauber X-560

Another good model with a democratic price tag. 3 tiers, power 700 W, electronic control. With its low cost, this steamer boasts an impressive range of options and features - a timer, a delay start, a thermostat, a fast steam mode, auto-cooking. One of the most frequently purchased gifts for the elderly is a simple menu, easy care, full set cooking functions different dishes for a couple. Some owners complain about a short service life, but these are isolated cases, for the most part - the double boiler works for a long time and properly.

Braun FS 3000

The next position, which continues our ranking of the best. Roomy, versatile and at the same time - not very expensive. The model is assembled from only two tiers, but thanks to the divider, you can cook 4 dishes in it at once. Power - 850 W, the volume of the entire steamer - 6.2 liters, water tank - 2 liters. There is a security system (auto-off, water level indicator, temperature controller), timer, "quick steam" mode and temperature and time settings for 6 recipes. Of the significant flaws described in the reviews - the flow of fat into the water tank. This complicates the care of the steamer.

Philips HD9140

One of the most popular models, which combines a wide range of options, a fair price and decent workmanship. Without a doubt, in 2018 this steamer will continue to occupy high positions in the sales ratings. This steamer has 3 vertical tiers, 900 W power, electronic control. In it you can cook both side dishes and meat, as well as first courses. You can add water during cooking, use one of the 5 operating modes (steamer, boil, stew, egg cooker, reheat), do not worry about burning food.

Tefal VS 4003 Vita Cuisine Compact

Pleasant to the eye, compact and at the same time - quite a roomy double boiler. The total volume of the device is 10 l, three tiers, mesh bowls and trays for dishes of various consistency. Functional advantages - timer, delayed start, keep food hot mode. You can add water right in the process of cooking and not worry about safety - the device will turn off if all the water from the tank boils away. However, according to users, during cooking, the water in the tank does not decrease by less than half. The owners of this particular steamer note that it is easy to wash and pleasant to use - thanks to the “vitamin +” mode, the products reach readiness 2 times faster and do not lose their natural taste, color, or smell. By the way, you can fearlessly cook at the same time such disparate dishes as meat, side dishes and baked fruits, and not be afraid that the smells will mix. Such a double boiler will last for a very long time, because it is assembled, as they say, “in good faith”.

Philips AVENT SCF870

Steamer blender. Interesting solution for those who want to save on the purchase of two devices. Convenient, compact and durable option, a reasonable purchase for a small, young family in which Small child. Sterilizing baby dishes, making a variety of porridges and purees, steamed meatballs and fish dishes are all easy to prepare if you have the AVENT SCF870 in your kitchen. Power - only 400 W, one tier for cooking, timer for 20 minutes, small water tank - only 0.2 liters. However, this steamer is almost impossible to disable with intense loads, it is also easy to clean and convenient to store even in a small kitchen or rented apartment.

Braun FS 5100

Reliable, functional and stylish steamer with a round shape for quick and easy cooking of delicious and healthy meals. The materials from which the cooking containers are made are absolutely safe and non-toxic. What's more, they have a tinted dark color to keep foods like beets, spinach, carrots, etc. did not paint the plastic and the device as a whole looked neat. The steamer has two tiers, power - 850 W, durable and simple mechanical control. The manufacturer took care of comfort and practicality - in this steamer you can interchange baskets, there are also operation indicators, an extra steam mode and the ability to wash baskets in dishwasher. Each basket has its own tray, which means that the smells of different products will not affect each other. However, as some owners note, for such a cost of a double boiler, the functionality could be expanded. However, for those who do not plan to often steam culinary delights, this is the best steamer.

Bosch Serie 8 CDG 634 BS1/BB1

One of the most budget models built-in steamers. Total volume - 38 l, power - 1900 W, made of stainless steel and enamel. It has four types of heating and twenty automatic modes of operation. Protected from accidental clicks, has an automatic self-cleaning mode and an indicator low level water in the tank. Those who buy this type of equipment will be able to recreate any design in their kitchen without fear of spoiling the look with one or another appliance. This Bosch steamer can be safely compared with an oven, also, this model compares favorably interesting design, a wide range of functions and high professional performance.

Smeg SC745VAO/VPO

In 2017, it became a hit among built-in steamers. Total volume - 35 l, power - 3200 W, electronic clear control, bright informative display. Can reheat, defrost, sterilize, boil or stew. The security system was carefully thought out and executed - blocking the control during cooking, stopping the supply of steam if the door is not closed, indicating the water level in the tank. The set includes a baking sheet, wire rack, cleaning agent and a special sponge. In the auto-cooking mode, you can use one of 15 ready-made recipes. In general, a stylish, modern and efficient steamer that will pleasantly surprise you with a variety of healthy delicacies for many years to come.

Now, you are aware of which steamer is better according to the rating of 2017-2018, we hope it answered all your questions that you might have when choosing the most suitable model of such an important kitchen device. Happy shopping and healthy gastronomic delights - with a good steamer, it's easy and simple!

The word "steam" is usually associated with a bath or sauna, which are very beneficial for health. An electric steamer can also be called a bath, but not for a person, but for food products. Between these two baths there is an undeniable unity - they both strengthen human health. If you are a supporter of a healthy lifestyle, then do not forget to go to the bathhouse and be sure to use a double boiler. If you don’t have one, then in this article we will tell you how to choose a double boiler.

Double boiler. What kind of "beast" is this?

If you have never seen this unit, then you should get acquainted with it before proceeding with the choice of a double boiler. The device of the steamer is quite simple. It consists of three parts:

1 base. This part of the steamer contains all the electrical elements of the device. They are necessary for heating water, which is poured into a special container located in the same department of the double boiler. Everyone knows that when water boils, steam is released. It is he who is used for cooking products in a double boiler. The steamer is connected to the outlet using a wire with a plug. You can control the steamer through the control panel located in this part of the steamer.
2 steam baskets. Depending on the type of steamer, there can be from one to three baskets. They are usually made of high quality food grade plastic. At the bottom of the baskets are holes through which steam enters them. The top basket has a tight lid.
3 Pallet. The tray is necessary in a double boiler to collect condensate and juice from products that are released during the cooking process. In most double boilers, only one pallet is designed for all baskets, but there are also models in which the number of pallets is equal to the number of baskets.

As you can see, there is nothing tricky in the structure of the double boiler. All of them are arranged according to the same principle. Therefore, the choice of steamer depends primarily on specifications apparatus.

Why do you need a steamer?

Surely you have met people more than once whose kitchen is full of different kind household appliances. At first you think that these people are real cooks, but it often turns out that all the equipment was bought thanks to the consumer boom. Often half of these devices are idle or just very rarely used.

In order not to make such mistakes and not waste money on obviously unnecessary appliances, you need to know why you need this or that household appliance. Of course, explain why you need a vacuum cleaner or washing machine pretty simple. But with kitchen appliances, things are much more complicated. Here it is important to specifically decide which steamer you need to choose, because the steamer must first of all meet all your requirements.

Before we start talking about how to choose a double boiler, it is worth considering the main advantages of acquiring this unit. So, the advantages of a double boiler:

The steamer will first of all become an indispensable device for people striving for healthy eating. Thanks to a double boiler, all vitamins and minerals that are destroyed during cooking or frying are preserved in food. In fact, fried food is generally not recommended.
A steamer is a great helper in the household. Thanks to this unit, you can not only cook tasty and healthy food, but also defrost food. In addition, a steamer is simply indispensable for pregnant women and mothers, because for the first, the best food is precisely the one that is steamed, and for the second, the steamer can serve as a sterilizer for baby bottles and plates.
You can also heat food in the steamer. In addition, several dishes can be cooked in the steamer at the same time, the number of which depends on the number of steam baskets. Therefore, if we evaluate this technique by the number of baskets, the best double boiler will be the one in which there are more baskets. After all, it is not necessary to use all the baskets all the time, but when you need to cook several dishes, a double boiler with several baskets will save you a lot of time when cooking. A great option when you are expecting guests and need to cook a lot. Moreover, when cooking several dishes, it is not at all necessary to select products with the same cooking time. All you have to do is put the food that takes longer to cook in the lower basket and the food that cooks quickly in the upper basket.
Dishes in a double boiler never burn, and nothing in it will ever escape. Therefore, the steamer is very easy to clean. Plus, dishes in a double boiler will never turn out to be dryish. And if you suddenly forget to turn off the device, or all the water boils away in it, the steamer will turn off by itself. In this regard, it is impossible to decide which double boiler is better, since all double boilers are designed in such a way that food is easily cooked in them, they are easy to clean and are able to turn off on their own by a timer or when the hostess forgets about them.
The steamer is one of those kitchen appliances that any hostess should have. Even if you don't know how to cook, buy this machine anyway. Cooking in a steamer is extremely simple, you just need to put food in the steam basket, pour water and turn on the unit for the desired time.
If you have little time to cook, you are a very busy person, then you will not have problems with dinner if you have a double boiler. Double boilers have a function such as delay cooking. The maximum delay time can be 12 hours. That is, you can put the necessary products into the steamer early in the morning, set the timer for a certain time - and the steamer will prepare tasty and healthy food by your arrival. If you suddenly do not plan to stay somewhere, then the double boiler will regularly heat up food for several hours. Therefore, in any case, by your arrival at home there will be hot food, for the preparation of which in the evening there is usually neither strength nor desire.
For students, the steamer will also be a great helper. Usually in hostels electric stoves forbidden, so that, God forbid, a fire does not happen. And in the common kitchen you don’t want to cook for many different reasons. This is where the double boiler will save you from hunger, because you can cook food without leaving your room.

As you can see, the advantages of a double boiler are undeniable. And now let's figure out how to choose a double boiler, which double boiler is the best and which brand of double boiler you should choose.

A little about the characteristics of the steamer

The main characteristics of any steamer are the power and the control system. Before deciding which steamer is better to buy, you need to learn about these characteristics in more detail.

There is an opinion that power is the most important parameter of a double boiler and here the best double boiler will be the one with the highest power. But in fact, this is not entirely true. Most steamers now have the ability to adjust the power - from 650 to 2000 watts. Of course, the higher the power, the faster the food will cook. But besides this, the volume of steam baskets, the quality of the products used in the preparation of dishes and the design of the steamer also affect the cooking time. Well, what kind of steamer is better to buy? The one that is the most powerful, or some other? Rather, we can say that you should choose not by power, but by all the parameters of the double boiler together.

Before choosing a steamer, carefully study what its control system is. At first glance, it seems that there is nothing complicated in managing a double boiler. But there are some nuances here. So, steam boiler control systems can be of two types:

WITH electronic control. Steamers with this type of control system are the most functional, since they have such functions as delaying cooking, heating cooked food for some time. Such control systems are equipped with a display on which all operating modes of the steamer are displayed.
With mechanical control. Steamers with such controls also have their advantages. Firstly, you don’t need to activate any strange modes, press a bunch of buttons. All you have to do is set the round timer for the desired cooking time, and the steamer will start working. Everything is simply obscene, and there is nothing special to break there.

How to choose the right steamer?

Well, here we are approaching the main topic of our article. How to choose a good steamer? Which brand steamer is better? What kind best models steamers should be considered first when determining your choice? We will try to answer these questions in the continuation of the article.

First, turn your attention to the pallet. The height of the sides of the pan should be 2-2.5 cm. The sides below will add problems, because during the cooking process you will have to drain the condensate accumulated in the pan several times, which will take you some time, you will have to monitor the cooking process all the time. If excess moisture is not drained from the pan, this can lead to damage to the steamer due to moisture entering the heating element. In addition, it is better to choose a double boiler, the tray of which is equipped with handles. Since the condensate in the pan is hot, the handles will protect against the possibility of getting burned by water.

If you do not want the food in the lower steam basket to be soaked with the juices of the food from the higher baskets while cooking several dishes, then it is better to choose a steamer with several trays. If you think that vegetables soaked in meat broth are very good, then you can choose a double boiler with one tray. In addition, many steamers come with a rice bowl that can hold food from the upper steam baskets. In this case, juice leakage from the upper floors of the double boiler will be excluded.

Well, here, in fact, are all the main points that you should pay attention to in order to choose the right double boiler. According to all of the above, decide for yourself which double boiler is better to choose in your particular case.

You can also explore the Internet, ask a question which steamer to choose: reviews of people who have already bought this or that steamer model will help you get an idea of a good double boiler. How to choose a double boiler: reviews of such people will help you form your own opinion about what you need from a double boiler, what is not very good, and what is completely unnecessary. Then you can mentally compose for yourself general form perfect steamer.

When choosing a good steamer, you can also pay attention to such insignificant, but sometimes very useful little things, as an indicator of the amount of water, the volume and number of steam baskets, their transparency and shape. If they have any significance for you in determining which double boiler is better to choose, then let's look at these "little things" in more detail.

Other nuances in choosing a double boiler

The presence in the steamer of the indicator of the amount of water in the tank of the apparatus helps to keep track of how much water is in the steamer before the start of cooking. This element is perhaps the most useless, since it is not difficult to add fresh water every time before starting cooking.

If the preparation of any dish is delayed for a long time - from an hour or more, then it may be necessary to add water to the tank. Then a small hole will be useful, thanks to which you can add water without turning off the steamer and without removing the food baskets. But at the same time, this hole is unlikely to be useful, since for such a long cooking time, the tray will most likely be filled, which will have to be drained. And in this case, you still have to turn off the steamer and remove the baskets, at the same time it will be possible to add fresh water.

The transparency of steam baskets is, of course, beautiful at first sight. After all, sometimes, sitting with the whole family for dining table and talking, looking at the products being prepared in a double boiler between times is very pleasant and interesting. But in this case, do not flatter yourself - the baskets are transparent only for the time being, in the process of cooking they will still fog up from the steam and it will be very problematic if not impossible to see anything through the walls of the baskets. Therefore, when deciding which steamer to choose, do not pay much attention to the transparency of the baskets. It does not affect the quality of cooking and taste.

But the number of steam baskets and their volume is a rather important parameter. As already mentioned, in double boilers there are from 1 to 3 baskets. Their volumes vary from one and a half liters to three and a half. If you have a large family and like to cook a variety of foods, then this steamer will be better for you, in which there are three baskets. Moreover, the larger the family, the larger the volume of baskets should be. For a person who lives alone, such as a bachelor or a student, a small steamer with one basket is more suitable. If the family is small, then the best option would be a double boiler with two baskets. That is, the volume and number of baskets is quite an important indicator when choosing a double boiler, but this is all purely individual. Only you can determine which steamer will be the best for your family, because only you know how many people are in your family and how much food you consume in one dinner or lunch.

Also plays a role, albeit not a big one, the shape of the steam baskets. This is not about round or square shapes, but about the fact that in some double boilers one basket is smaller than the other and you can arrange them only one the only way- a smaller basket is placed on a large basket, and even less on it. These baskets cannot be swapped. And the ability to swap baskets happens quite often. It happens that the products from the lower basket are already cooked, but from the upper basket they are still damp. In this case, the upper basket should be replaced with the lower one. This is due to the fact that food is cooked faster on the lower tier of the steamer, and longer on the upper tier. Therefore, it is better to purchase steamers whose basket shapes are the same, so that you can freely swap the baskets.

Here, in fact, is everything you need to know about double boilers in order to make the right choice. But which company to choose a double boiler is another question. Of course, the manufacturer is also quite important in choosing a double boiler, since the durability of the device and its price depend on the company. At the moment, there are steamers with a price of 800 rubles to 7 thousand. If the manufacturer of the steamer matters to you, then let's take a quick look at which steamers from which companies are better than all others.

Top 5 steamer manufacturers

There are five of the best steamer models that most people respond positively to. Which steamer to choose - there are a lot of people's reviews, they say that the best steamer models are: Tefal, Scarlett, Philips, Moulinex and Braun.

Tefal steamers. The VC1014, VC4003, VC4008 and VS4003 models are especially popular here. These models look very different from each other. But they are united by the fact that they have many useful functions, voluminous baskets. In addition, all these steamers have three steam baskets. Among the functions: fast steam, delayed start of cooking, keep warm. But the VC1001 model can be safely given the title of "Best Steamer 2011" among compact models.
Philips steamers. The HD9120 and HD9140 models are especially popular. Both steamers have three steam baskets, they also have the same power. In addition, these steamers have a very reasonable price.
Moulinex. Popular models are MV1000 Principio and MV1003 Accessimo. These models have 2 baskets, they are quite compact and easy to use too. In addition, in the second model there is a function of adding water during the cooking process.
Brown. The best steamer of this company is the Braun FS20 model. The steamer is equipped with two matte plastic steam baskets. Steamer power - 850 W, which is high rate for budget option double boilers. In addition, a dark bowl is included with the steamer, designed for those products that can stain the baskets of the steamer.
scarlett. The most popular models are Scarlett SC343 and Scarlett SC1143. These models are popular primarily due to the very low price. Pretty good double boilers, and most importantly - compact. And their service life is quite long.

So, summing up all the considered double boilers, we can say that the best double boiler of 2011 can be called the Philips HD9140. It is she who is most in demand among all segments of the population.