Steamers: what are the types of devices and their advantages

Steaming has become very popular. This method of processing products preserves not only their taste, but also useful properties. Today, different types of double boiler are used for steaming. These devices are convenient to use, have an attractive appearance and harmoniously fit into the interior of any kitchen.

Types of double boiler

We will figure out what types of steamers are, how they work, and which model to choose depending on needs.

How does a double boiler work?

The principle of operation of a double boiler is quite simple, regardless of model. More recently, housewives used steamed aluminum pans with special accessories when cooking steamed. Since then, only the external characteristics of the devices have changed, but the principle has remained the same. So, the device works according to the following algorithm:

• at the bottom of the device is a special tank with water. It is equipped with a heating element, which when turned on, brings the liquid to a boil. The amount of water poured into the tank depends entirely on the amount of food;
• the upper tiers of the device are filled with products that are prepared under the action of steam;
• the steam inside the containers is distributed evenly over all food bowls. Thanks to this, products are prepared quickly;
• during the formation of steam and its effects on products, condensation forms. It flows into a special container, from which it is removed after cooking.

The peculiarity of this cooking method is that there is no need to use fats. Food is prepared by steam, which makes it lean, healthy and tasty.

The principle of operation of a double boiler

Types and characteristics of double boiler

There are several ways to classify steamers. It depends on what underlies the separation. The most significant option is according to the installation method:

• built-in - common models, but their purchase is planned at the design stage of the room. Such devices are mounted in specially designated places for them. The built-in double boilers are highly functional. High pressure models deserve special attention: due to the built-in steam generator, the cooking process is much faster. As a rule, such models have two main functions - defrosting and steaming. Some of the most expensive devices can be equipped with a large number of programs and have up to 150 recipes.
• Independent double boiler equipped with a huge number of programs. Their functionality is completely dependent on the cost of the product. Their main difference is that such models can be freely moved, taken on the road. The only drawback that they have is that it is necessary to find a special place in the kitchen for their storage. However, such models are usually more budget class.

Independent models are more popular in today's market. To understand their varieties, you need to consider the following division into groups.

Compact models and included in other modern devices

Manufacturers offer a wide variety of both models. A significant difference between them is the cost. As a rule, compact models are cheaper than multifunctional ones. Classification of models:

• compact steam cookers have an extremely simple design: the product consists of a heating element, which is located in a special container for water, steam baskets. The number of the latter may be different, depending on the model. Food is placed in steam baskets, then the processing time is set on the timer, at the end of which a signal sounds. The best are plastic models;
• Solo models are more diverse. The number of baskets and their volume depends on the cost of the device. However, such devices have a very wide functionality. For example, a double boiler can be part of a multifunctional food processor, blenders, double boilers, multicookers with such a function are in demand. Such devices can simultaneously cope with a large number of tasks.

How to choose a double boiler?

Type of control

Many steamers differ significantly in cost, although visually little differ. However, they have one, but a significant difference, which affects not only the method, time, but also the convenience of preparation. So, the varieties of double boiler by the control method:

• mechanical - easier to manage. When used during cooking, it is possible to add fluid, increase cooking time, change the temperature regime, as well as increase or decrease the number of cycles. Such models have a lower price, although many housewives who first decided to buy such a device prefer these devices;
• electronic appliances are more expensive. In addition to the fact that they have a large number of cooking programs, there is also the opportunity to regulate the modes embedded in the device. Many housewives greatly appreciate the presence of such a function as a delay in inclusion. As a rule, such models have an electronic or touch display.

Electronic double boiler

Operating modes

The number of steamer operating modes is directly displayed on the cost. In budget models, as a rule, the number of modes is not more than three. Basic operating modes:

• steaming;
• thawing food;
• steam boost (used to sterilize or heat food).

Accessories and options

Depending on the model, brand, and also the price, all kitchen doubles can have different equipment, accessories. What can be included in the kit and how to choose the right model:

The number of steam baskets and the availability of additional accessories:

• budget models can have only one thicket for cooking. The process is carried out quickly enough, since the amount of processed food is insignificant;
• 2 or 3 main bowls. Such models are suitable for a large family, when you need to cook many different dishes at the same time. However, it must be borne in mind that the cooking process in such devices is longer, since it is necessary to process large volumes;
  

  Steamers for the whole family

• the presence of an extra bowl for rice. Although it is possible to cook almost all dishes in it: cereals, legumes, soups.

1. The volume of steam baskets. Depending on the model, brand and, of course, cost, the volume can vary from 1.5 to 3.5 liters. However, almost all modern models have fairly spacious baskets. When choosing, you need to pay attention to the volume of the rice basket. It is better that it is large, then in the rice basket you can cook other dishes.
2. Water level indicator in the steam compartment. This is not an obligatory function, but it is more convenient when it is: to see if there is enough liquid for cooking, you will not need to remove all the compartments, but simply look at the value.
3. Special hole for adding liquid during cooking. If in the process it turned out that there is little water, you can add it through a special compartment. In models without such an opportunity to top up the water you need to remove the bowl.
   

   Liquid-steamer

4. The capacity of the condensate pan is an important parameter that you need to pay attention to when choosing a double boiler: if you cook a large number of dishes at the same time, a small volume of the pan may not be enough and you will have to empty it during cooking. But if you buy a double boiler with a pallet height of 2-2.5 cm, it is enough for all the condensate.
5. The material of manufacture. Most models have transparent bowls; they can be made of high quality plastic or glass. But there are opaque ones made of stainless steel. The only advantage of the metal is that the food will stay warm for a longer time.

Stainless steel - double boiler

The best double boiler: advantages and disadvantages

Among the budget models it is worth highlighting the Zauber X-560. Its cost is 2,300 rubles. The model is made of stainless steel. The bowls have comfortable handles and are quite roomy.

Advantages:

• volume of 9 liters;
• 3 baskets for cooking and one for rice;
• power is 700 W;
• there is the possibility of adding fluid during operation;
• low price.

Disadvantages:

• to add water during cooking is not very convenient due to improper location of the cell;
• small volume of condensate pan.

Double boiler Zauber X-560

Philips HD9124 Mid-Range Steamer

A special model, as it is supplemented with a container for spices, thanks to this, all food will be tasty and aromatic. We can say that this is the most successful three-tier model with an average price of 5,800 rubles. The model is made of high quality plastic.

Steam cooker Philips HD9124

Advantages:

• power 900 W;
• there is an additional bowl for rice and devices for cooking eggs;
• shutdown function at low water level;
• the possibility of adding fluid is present;
• there is a water level indicator;
• mechanical control.

Disadvantages:

• no delay in starting;
• uncomfortable shift knob.

Best Braun FS 5100 Premium Steamer

A unique model that is in great demand, despite the relatively high cost of 7,700 rubles. This device has everything you need for cooking delicious and fragrant dishes.

Model Braun FS 5100

Advantages:

• there is a steam accelerator with which the water in the bowl boils in less than a minute;
• there are two bowls with a volume of 6.3 liters;
• plastic is slightly tinted;
• a bowl for rice, a device for cooking eggs;
• steam boost or sterilization mode;
• tray for coloring products.

Disadvantages:

• a small volume of bowls for cooking.