Steaming food has been a practice since the Stone Age, and it’s a method that offers simplicity and effectiveness. Despite its long history, steaming is often underestimated and underused in modern American kitchens. All it takes is to place a variety of foods like vegetables, fish, and dumplings in a steamer of your choice, let the water steam up, and in just a few minutes, you’ll have a complete meal without making a mess in multiple dishes.
If you’re looking to explore the world of steaming, here are some of my favorite food steamers that I tested.
How We Tested Steamers
To put these steamers to the test, I cooked a range of foods, including frozen dumplings, frozen tamales, vegetables, and fish. Different steamers cater to different needs, so I paid attention to functionalities, materials, and performance with various foods. The goal was to determine which steamer excels in what tasks.
Best Electric Steamer
The Buydeem steamer is a lightweight, compact, and fun kitchen gadget that can become your go-to appliance. Designed with a water waste system to prevent contamination and offering a multitiered design, this steamer is perfect for cooking multiple items with varying cook times.
Another Good Electric Option
The Cuisinart CookFresh Digital Glass Steamer offers a reliable option for steaming your food. With a convenient design, you can cook a complete, homemade meal without much effort. The steamer’s functionality makes it a bit clunky, but it’s perfect for regular steaming sessions.
Best Ceramic Steamer
For those looking to elevate their steaming experience, the Donabe clay pot from Nagatani-en is an excellent choice. While it requires a bit more care and attention, the results are worth it. The clay pot’s unique properties allow for even cooking and flavorful outcomes.
Best Ceramic Steamer Set
If you prefer a ceramic steamer that’s less fragile than Donabe, a ceramic steamer set with bamboo inserts might be the right fit. The terra-cotta base enhances the steaming process, although it may retain some food odors. This set offers versatility and unique design for a quality steaming experience.
Best Bamboo Steamer Set
The Concord Bamboo Steamer set combines metal and bamboo materials for efficient steaming. The round bamboo steamer allows for quality steaming, and the stainless steel pot offers versatility. Steaming with bamboo provides a traditional and flavorful experience that’s hard to beat.
Best Budget Steamer
For those on a budget, the Joseph Joseph steaming basket is a top pick. Made of hard silicone material, it’s easy to use and clean, offering an efficient way to steam vegetables and other small items. The thoughtful design and affordability make it a great choice for budget-conscious buyers.
Best Steamer for Tiny Kitchens
If you have limited space in your kitchen, Crate & Barrel’s Collapsible Steamer and Colander could be a handy option. While not ideal for all foods, this collapsible steamer works well for smaller servings and can be a space-saving solution for tiny kitchens.