How to Choose The Right Microwave Steamers for Your Home
Introduction
Microwave steamers are a great way to cook food quickly and easily. Whether preparing a meal for one or a large family, these steamers are a convenient and time-saving device for any kitchen. But with so many on the market, how do you choose the right one? Here’s a guide to help you make the best selection for your needs.
Considerations
When selecting a microwave steamer, there are a few things to take into consideration. First, consider the size of the steamer. If you plan on cooking a lot of food, a larger steamer is necessary. On the other hand, if you’re only cooking for one or two people, a smaller steamer is more than sufficient.
You should also consider the material of the steamer. Many steamers are made of plastic, but there are also some made of stainless steel. Plastic steamers are lighter, but stainless steel is more durable and can withstand higher temperatures.
Features
When shopping for microwave steamers, you should look for certain features. Look for steamers with adjustable steam settings so you can customize the amount of steam for various types of food. Some steamers come with multiple compartments for different types of food, so you can cook multiple items at once. Other features to look for include lids with vents to release steam and handles for easy removal from the microwave.
Price
Price is always a factor when shopping for kitchen appliances. Be sure to compare the features of different steamers to find the best value. In general, smaller steamers are the least expensive, while larger steamers with multiple compartments and additional features can be more expensive.
Conclusion
Choosing the right microwave steamer allows you to cook food quickly and easily. Consider the size of the steamer, the material it’s made of, and the features it offers. Be sure to compare prices to find the best value. With the right steamer, you’ll be able to enjoy delicious food in no time!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is microwave steaming good?
Yes, microwave steaming is beneficial as it allows for faster cooking compared to traditional methods. The steam penetrates the food, removing excess fat and salt while preserving more of the beneficial nutrients.
2. Are microwave vegetable steamers safe?
Yes, microwave vegetable steamers designed for microwave use are safe. They are tested by manufacturers to ensure they meet FDA standards for food safety. These steam-bag vegetables do not contain BPA or phthalates.
3. What can I cook in a microwave steamer?
You can cook a variety of foods in a microwave steamer, including meat, fish, rice, pasta, vegetables, and even desserts like puddings. It is important to use a suitable container for safe steaming in the microwave.
4. How do you make a homemade microwave steamer?
To make a homemade microwave steamer, place vegetables in a single layer on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with damp paper towels in a triple layer. Microwave on high heat until the vegetables are tender, adjusting the cooking time based on your microwave's power.
5. What are the disadvantages of microwave steaming?
There are a few disadvantages to microwave steaming. Uneven heating can result in cold spots and hot spots, which may affect the taste and pose a burn risk. If the food being microwaved lacks sufficient water content, it may become too dry. Additionally, only microwave-safe utensils should be used.
6. Can too much steam damage a microwave?
No, steam does not damage a microwave. When using a microwave steamer, there will be steam released, both inside and outside the cooker. It is important to follow the instructions provided to use the microwave steamer safely and properly.
7. Is it healthier to steam or microwave vegetables?
Steaming and microwaving are both healthy cooking methods for vegetables. Steaming is particularly beneficial for preserving nutrients, especially vitamin C. Microwaving uses little to no water and heats the vegetables quickly, minimizing nutrient loss.
8. What foods cannot be cooked in a microwave?
There are certain foods that should not be cooked in a microwave, including chili peppers, hard-boiled eggs, styrofoam, takeout containers, mug of water, grapes, leftover potatoes, and processed meats.
Editor's Notes
During our microwave steamer research, we found 24 microwave steamer products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 122,362 customer reviews through our big data system to write the microwave steamers list. We found that most customers choose microwave steamers with an average price of $19.00.
The microwave steamers are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of microwave steamers, including Progressive International, Sistema, Good Cooking, Tafura, ReneeChef. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.
Rebecca Cantu grew up in a family-owned retail store for home and kitchen products. She worked online and gave assistance to people to buy ideal products for their sweet home after graduating from Northwestern University with a marketing degree. She has been writing content for online shopping guides since 2011 with her professional knowledge and natural sensitivity of appliances.