Discover the Best Food Steamer: Upgrade Your Healthy Cooking Game

On the hunt for the best food steamer? Your journey ends here. We've rounded up some of the finest food steamers available. These gems will unlock a world of healthier, more flavorful meals for you and your loved ones.

Our Top Picks:

1. Breville BFS800BSS Steam Zone Food Steamer
2. Cuisinart STM-1000 Digital Glass Steamer
3. Hamilton Beach 37530A Digital Food Steamer
4. BELLA 7.4 Quart Healthy Food Steamer
5. Aroma Housewares ARC-743-1NGR Rice Cooker and Steamer
6. Nesco ST-25F Food Steamer

1. Breville BFS800BSS Steam Zone Food Steamer

Photo: Amazon

This Breville steamer takes the crown in our list. High power, precision control, and a slick design all come together in this device. It's a steamer that delivers on all fronts.

With an impressive 1800 watts, it reaches steaming temperatures in just 30 seconds. You'll have perfectly steamed veggies or fish in no time. The sync finish and split zone features add more control and flexibility to your cooking, ensuring your food is cooked just right.

What about capacity? The Breville food steamer comes with a sizeable 40 oz water tank. It also includes two stackable steaming baskets. They have separate cooking zones, so you can prepare different foods at different times.

Pros:

• Rapid start and powerful steam with 1800 watts.
• Sync finish and split zone features allow flexible cooking.
• Generous 40 oz water tank and two stackable steaming baskets.

Cons:

• On the higher end of the price spectrum.
• The high power might increase electricity usage.
• No clear way of draining the water after use.

2. Cuisinart STM-1000 Digital Glass Steamer

Cuisinart's STM-1000 Digital Glass Steamer brings a modern touch to your kitchen. It's all about performance and convenience.

At the core of this food steamer is a powerful 1875-watt steam system. It delivers efficient and quick cooking. And with a 5-litre glass cooking pot, there's ample space for all your streaming needs.

This steamer stands out with its user-friendly LCD control panel. It offers pre-programmed food settings and a 60-minute countdown timer. So, just set it, and let the steamer do the rest. The reheat option is another valuable feature, quickly warming up your food without overcooking.

Furthermore, all removable parts are dishwasher-safe. It's all about hassle-free cleaning after enjoying your deliciously steamed meal. The stainless-steel steaming tray, glass lid, and glass pot can all go right into the dishwasher.

These two steamers are a testament to the quality we sought in our selection. They combine power, convenience, and innovative features. Check back soon as we delve into our other top picks.

Pros:

• Large 5-litre glass cooking pot for ample space.
• User-friendly LCD control panel with pre-programmed settings.
• All removable parts are dishwasher-safe.

Cons:

• The glass pot may be fragile and require careful handling.
• May occupy significant counter space due to its size.
• Some may find the pre-programmed settings limiting.

3. Hamilton Beach 37530A Digital Food Steamer

Hamilton Beach 37530A Digital Food Steamer brings simplicity and efficiency to your kitchen. This 5.5-quart digital steamer is perfect for cooking various foods simultaneously.

The two-tier steamer offers a flexible cooking experience. You can use one tier for small quantities or stack two tiers for a full meal. The digital touchpad makes operation a breeze with clear timing and function buttons.

One standout feature is the "Delay Start" for maximum convenience. It allows you to fill the steamer with produce in advance and program the cooking to start later.

For the health-conscious, the Hamilton Beach steamer ensures all your nutrients are retained. Moreover, the beep alert at the end of the cycle ensures your food is never overcooked.

Pros:

• A two-tier steamer allows for cooking different foods simultaneously.
• Digital touchpad for clear and easy operation.
• 'Delay Start' feature for added convenience.

Cons:

• Tiers are made from plastic which some users might not prefer.
• Limited capacity, might not be suitable for larger families.
• The water level might be challenging to see and fill.

4. BELLA 7.4 Quart Healthy Food Steamer

The BELLA 7.4 Quart Healthy Food Steamer is the key to quick, healthy meals. With a generous 7.4-quart capacity, it can handle a hearty dinner for the whole family.

This steamer shines with its quick-start heating system. It allows steam to be generated within 30 seconds. Your veggies and fish will be perfectly steamed in no time.

Its user-friendly design includes a visible water gauge to ensure you never run out of steam. Furthermore, the two-tier basket system allows different foods to be cooked simultaneously.

A bonus is the grain tray for perfectly cooked grains. It is indeed an excellent value-for-money steamer that offers versatility in cooking.

Each of these steamers promises to revolutionize your cooking experience. They offer efficient, healthy, and delicious food at the touch of a button. Stay tuned as we cover the final two steamers in our list of top picks.

Pros:

• The generous 7.4-quart capacity is suitable for large meals.
• Quick start heating system generates steam within 30 seconds.
• Visible water gauge and two-tier basket system for added convenience.

Cons:

• The unit might be larger, requiring more storage space.
• No digital display, which some users may prefer.
• Plastic parts may not be as durable as stainless steel ones.

5. Aroma Housewares ARC-743-1NGR Rice Cooker and Steamer

The Aroma Housewares ARC-743-1NGR is more than just a rice cooker. Its steam function makes it a versatile addition to any kitchen.

This compact appliance offers a 6-cup cooked rice capacity, making it perfect for small families or couples. The one-touch operation simplifies cooking, making it ideal for those with a busy lifestyle.

A unique feature is the steam tray, allowing you to steam veggies or proteins while rice cooks below. It's a time-saver and brings you a full nutritious meal effortlessly.

Pros:

• Versatile with both cooking and steaming functions.
• Compact and perfect for small families or couples.
• Allows simultaneous cooking with a steam tray.

Cons:

• Limited to a 6-cup cooked rice capacity.
• Not suitable for larger families.
• The exterior may become hot during operation.

6. Nesco ST-25F Food Steamer

The Nesco ST-25F Food Steamer offers a balance of capacity and compact design. This 5-quart steamer offers two-tray steam cooking, allowing multiple foods to be cooked at once.

The 400-watt heater ensures quick steam production, so your meals are ready in no time. It also includes a 60-minute timer with auto-off for your safety and convenience.

A major plus is the BPA-free plastic trays and lid, ensuring your food is not only tasty but also safe. The removable trays also make cleaning easy, contributing to a hassle-free cooking experience.

Each of these steamers brings something unique to your kitchen. Whether it's quick start times, easy-to-use digital features, or multi-function capabilities, they're all designed to make cooking healthy meals as effortless as possible. With one of these top food steamers, you'll find preparing delicious, nutritious meals a breeze.

Pros:

• Balance of capacity and compact design with a 5-quart volume.
• Quick steam production due to a 400-watt heater.
• BPA-free plastic trays and lids for safe cooking.

Cons:

• Lacks digital controls.
• Not as powerful as some other models.
• Requires refilling water for longer steaming times.

Why we need it

Food steamers are an indispensable part of a health-conscious kitchen, and here's why:

1. Nutrient Retention: Steaming helps preserve the vitamins, minerals, and natural flavours of food, resulting in healthier and tastier meals.
2. Low-Fat Cooking: Steaming requires no oil, making it ideal for low-fat and low-calorie diets.
3. Versatility: From vegetables to meat and seafood, a steamer can cook a wide range of foods.
4. Ease of Use: Most food steamers are user-friendly. They have simple controls and indicators for hassle-free cooking.
5. Simultaneous Cooking: Multi-tier steamers allow different dishes to be prepared at the same time, saving energy and time.
6. Ease of Cleaning: Steamers typically have detachable parts, making cleaning a breeze.
7. Dietary Requirements: Steaming is perfect for many diets, such as vegan, gluten-free, and clean-eating plans.
8. Safety: Most steamers have built-in safety features, such as auto shut-off when water levels are low. Remember, a healthier lifestyle begins with healthier cooking, and a quality food steamer is a step in the right direction.

What should consider before buying

Before buying a food steamer, consider the following key factors to ensure you select the right one for your needs:

1. Capacity: Consider how much food you plan to steam at once. Larger families or those who entertain often may need a larger capacity steamer.
2. Material: Food steamers come in various materials, including plastic and stainless steel. Your choice may depend on durability, aesthetics, or health considerations.
3. Ease of Use: Look for features such as digital timers, auto shut-off, and easy-to-clean components.
4. Multiple Tiers: Multiple steaming baskets allow you to cook different foods simultaneously, saving you time.
5. Speed: Check how quickly the steamer produces steam. Some models are quick-start, producing steam within 30 seconds.
6. Price: As with any appliance, you need to consider your budget. More expensive models often come with additional features or superior build quality.
7. Space: Consider the amount of kitchen counter space the steamer will occupy. Some models are more compact, while others are larger but may offer more capacity.
8. Brand Reputation: It's worthwhile to consider the manufacturer's reputation for quality and customer service.
9. Warranty: Check if the product comes with a warranty. It can offer peace of mind knowing you’re covered if something goes wrong.

By considering these factors, you'll ensure you choose a food steamer that meets your specific needs and preferences.

How we tested those

Our testing process was comprehensive and meticulous, designed to provide an in-depth review of each food steamer. Here's how we tested them:

1. Performance Evaluation: We steamed various food items, including vegetables, poultry, seafood, and rice, to assess each machine's performance. We paid attention to how quickly and evenly the food cooked, as well as the taste and texture.

2. Ease of Use: We evaluated the user-friendliness of each model. This included checking the clarity of the instructions, simplicity of the controls, and ease of setting up and breaking down the steamer.

3. Design and Build Quality: We assessed the design and construction of each steamer, including the quality of the materials used, the stability of the steamer during operation, and the durability of the components.

4. Cleaning Process: After use, we assessed how easy it was to clean each steamer. We considered whether parts were dishwasher-safe, and how easy it was to manually clean any components that were not.

5. Safety Features: We tested the safety features of each model, such as automatic shut-off when the water reservoir is empty and whether the handles remained cool to the touch during operation.

6. Extra Features: We evaluated any additional features, such as digital timers, delay start functions, and keep-warm settings, for their usefulness and functionality.

Each product was used multiple times under normal kitchen conditions to ensure a thorough evaluation. This rigorous testing allowed us to provide you with an unbiased, detailed assessment of each food steamer's pros and cons.

Why Trust Us

We understand that the trust of our readers is earned, not given. Here are the reasons why you can confidently rely on our reviews and recommendations:

1. Unbiased Reviews: We do not have any affiliation with the brands we review. Our opinions are based solely on product performance and value.
2. Thorough Testing: Our recommendations are backed by rigorous testing. We personally use the products in real-world conditions, ensuring our evaluations reflect actual user experiences.
3. Expertise: Our team consists of experienced reviewers who have substantial knowledge and understanding of the products we cover.
4. Transparent Methodology: We clearly outline our review process and the criteria we use to evaluate products. We believe in transparency and ensure our readers know how we arrive at our conclusions.
5. Focus on Value: While we consider a range of price points, we always keep an eye on value for money. We appreciate that our readers have different budgets, and we aim to recommend products that deliver great performance at each price level.
6. Reader-Centric Approach: Ultimately, our goal is to provide information that benefits our readers. We listen to your feedback and continually refine our reviews to ensure they're helpful, relevant, and accurate.

Your trust is vital to us, and we work hard to provide reliable, impartial advice you can count on when making purchasing decisions.

FAQ'S

Q1: Is steaming healthier than boiling?

A: Yes, steaming is generally healthier than boiling as it helps retain more nutrients in the food. Boiling can lead to significant nutrient loss as they leach into the water.

Q2: Can I steam different foods together?

A: Yes, you can steam different types of foods together, provided they have similar cooking times. For foods with different cooking times, start with the one that takes the longest and add the others later.

Q3: How much water do I need to add to a food steamer?

A: The amount of water needed can vary depending on the model and the amount of food. Always refer to the user manual for specific instructions.

Q4: Can I add spices or herbs to the water in a steamer?

A: Yes, adding spices or herbs to the steaming water can infuse the food with subtle flavors. However, be aware that some spices might stain certain steamer materials.

Q5: How long does it take to steam vegetables in a food steamer?

A: The steaming time for vegetables can vary depending on the type and size of the vegetables. Generally, it can take anywhere between 5-20 minutes.

Q6: Are food steamers safe to use?

A: Yes, food steamers are generally safe to use. Many come with safety features like auto shut-off when the water runs out. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for use.

Q7: Can I use a food steamer to reheat food?

A: Yes, food steamers can effectively reheat leftovers without drying them out, unlike microwaves. However, always ensure the food reaches a safe temperature before consuming.

Q8: How do I clean a food steamer?

A: Most food steamers have dishwasher-safe parts. For manual cleaning, use warm soapy water. Always refer to the user manual for cleaning instructions.

Q9: Can I cook rice in a food steamer?

A: Yes, many food steamers come with a rice bowl accessory, making them suitable for cooking rice.

Q10: Do food steamers require a lot of power?

A: No, most food steamers are energy efficient and use less power than ovens or stovetops. Always check the wattage on the product specifications for an accurate understanding.