How to choose a steam cooker?
A steam cooker or steamer is has become an increasingly popular piece of kitchen equipment since it took off in the 70s and 80s. Nowadays, steamers are a particularly sought after piece of kitchen equipment, especially for those interested in Oriental cooking, or those who want to east as healthily as possible.
What is a steam cooker?
In short, a steam cooker or steamer uses water turned into steam to cook various foods. This process produces healthier food that retains all its nutrients, colour, texture and flavour, so if you’re after the healthiest possible way of eating then a steamer is something you should definitely get. Steaming means you can cook healthy foods without needing to use oil or butter, further reducing the amount of fats in your diet. Most steam cookers also feature a juice catchment which allows all nutrients (otherwise lost as steam) to be consumed. Steamers also claim to cook the most flavoursome food as well, as none of the flavour is lost into the pan or into water or oil that the food is cooked in.
History of the steam cooker?
The steam cooker has an interesting history, and whilst its modern form was not around until relatively recently, steaming has been a part of cooking pretty much since records began. In fact, the ancient Chinese used pottery steamers to cook food. The earliest steamer amazingly dates from about 5000 BC and was unearthed by archaeologists researching the history of cooking. Thankfully, steamers have come a long way since then, and now you should expect your steamer to run quickly and simply using electricity.
Steam cooker brands
This guide will first treat the best brands of steamer on the market, giving you the help and advice you need to choose the product that is right for you. It will discuss models available at a range of prices to ensure that you get the best deal within your price range.
Steamer vs Steam cooker
Following this, the guide will discuss the difference between a steamer or steam cooker on the one hand and a steam oven on the other. A steam oven is a more decent development in kitchen appliances and compares to the steam cooker or steamer without necessarily overtaking or succeeding it. There are various advantages and disadvantages of steam cookers over steam ovens and this part of the guide will discuss these. It will help the reader decide whether to go for a new steam oven or a traditional steamer.
Where to buy a steam cooker?
Finally, the guide will turn to a discussion of where you can buy a steamer from and will give you some advice as to how to get the best value for money on a steam cooker. It will discuss various online and high street options helping you get the best deal you can.
