Steamers, the culinary heroes that are an addition to any kitchen! The versatile steamers ensure meals full of good nutrients. Due to the gentle cooking method, the steamer plays an important role in preserving vitamins and minerals. Want to cook healthy and delicious? Go for an induction, gas, or electric steamer from cooking store Cookinglife. Discover the features and benefits of the pot and choose the pot that suits your preferences!

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What is a steamer?

The name says it all, a steamer is a pot designed to prepare food by steaming it. By steaming the food, no oil or butter is used, making the cooking method healthy! In a steamer, the food never comes into direct contact with the boiling water. This is because the water is boiled in the bottom part of the pot and the food sits in a basket above it. This allows the food to be evenly steamed.

How to use a steamer?

The principle of a steamer is very simple: you fill the pot with water and then add herbs or wine to taste. It is important to add enough water so that it does not evaporate. Keep in mind that the water does not come into direct contact with the food. Here is a step-by-step plan to use the steamer properly:

Prepare the pot for use first remove the steaming basket from the pot to fill the pot with water, wine, or broth. Keep about a distance of 3 centimeters between the liquid and the basket so that the food does not boil.
Add the ingredients to the basket Now add the food to the baskets. To ensure that the ingredients are ready at the same time, it is important to match the sizes. For example, cut the potato into cubes so that it is ready at the same time as the meat. Make sure the food is spread out so that everything is in contact with the steam. In a steamer with multiple layers, it is handy to place meat, etc., at the bottom.
Place the pot on the heat Once the first two steps are successful, it is time to place the pot on the heat source. Always start on medium heat or a moderate setting on an induction plate. After a few minutes, the steaming process begins, the ideal steaming temperature is between 80 and 90 degrees.
Enjoy your meal When all the ingredients are ready, on average after 10-12 minutes, you can enjoy a delicious fresh meal!

The benefits of a steamer

A steamer takes your cooking skills to the next level. Due to the cooking method, the pot brings out the best in your ingredients! The steamer is a perfect choice for quick and elaborate meals. Discover the benefits of a steamer here:

Nutrient retention: the steam keeps the food tender and preserves the nutrients.
Healthy choice: since no oil or butter is used in a steamer, it is a low-calorie choice!
Flavor and texture: because steaming is a gentle cooking method, the food retains its natural flavor, color, and texture. The dishes made are therefore very tasty and attractive.
Flexibility: you can make anything in a steamer. Fish, rice, vegetables, gyozas, you name it.

How to choose the right steamer for your kitchen?

To fully enjoy a good steamer, it is very important to purchase the right one. This depends on size, material, price, brand, and such. Here are a few points to consider when purchasing a steamer:

The size of the pot: do you have a large or small household, do you often cook for large groups or just for smaller groups? Adjust your choice based on this for the ideal size of your steamer.
The right material: steamers are available in different types of materials, such as stainless steel, aluminum, and silicone. The stainless steel pots have a long lifespan and are therefore a sustainable choice. Additionally, this material is easy to clean. Stainless steel is generally a heavy material, while aluminum is not.
Compatibility with heat sources: check if the steamer you want to purchase is suitable for your stove or induction plate. Most steamers are suitable for all heat sources, but some are limited.
Maintenance: choose a pot that is easy to maintain. Most steamers are dishwasher safe, except for a few. To extend the lifespan of the pot, hand washing is recommended for each pot.
Price and brand: research the different brands and the price range that best fits your wishes. Well-known brands often offer a long warranty and good quality.

Maintenance and cleaning tips

For maintaining and cleaning a steamer, there are a few tips that help ensure a long lifespan of your pot:

Clean after use: to prevent food residues and unpleasant odors, it is important to clean the steamer immediately after use. By cleaning the pot right away, you prevent stains on the material and it lasts longer.
Use warm water and mild soap: use warm water and mild soap when cleaning your steamer. To prevent scratches on the pot, it is important to use a soft cloth or sponge.
Dry the pot thoroughly: dry the steamer completely before storing it. By doing this properly, you prevent rust and stains. Additionally, it is also important to store the pot in a good place to prevent rust, moisture, and damage.
The different dishes with a steamer: You can do more with a steamer than you think! It is extremely flexible in preparing dishes. For example, you can make a bowl with tuna, baby potatoes, and vegetables. The fish, potatoes, and vegetables can all go into the different baskets in the steamer.

Buying a steamer?

For anyone looking for a healthy way to cook and values preserving flavors, a steamer is ideal. Choose from Hendi, WMF, and more brands. With the various sizes and designs, there is a suitable pot for everyone at Cookinglife. Additionally, you will also find kitchen timers and serving tongs to make preparing dishes even easier!

Also consult our range of downdraft pots for bottom/side extraction on your cooktop.