How to choose a double boiler: detailed instructions and top best models

Steamers have become very popular among people who try to watch their diet.
It is also an indispensable assistant for a caring mother who does not want to feed her baby canned puree.

There are a lot of models of these devices in 2021, so it’s important not to make a mistake with your choice.

We studied the main selection criteria and also compiled a rating of the most reliable and useful steamers that will serve you for many years.

Rating of the TOP 20 best steamers of 2021

List of the best steam oven models of the year

10+. Tefal VC1451

Our rating opens with a rather original and very durable model. It has two bowls, each with a volume of about 3 liters. They are made from stainless steel that is safe for human health. The lid is made of special tempered glass. In addition, the set also includes a plastic container used for cooking rice. The device is turned on by a rotary switch, which also functions as a timer. There is a compartment for adding water, so the operation of the steamer can not be interrupted. The device turns off automatically after the cooking time has ended. It notifies the user about this with a special sound signal.

You can monitor the water level through a special window. The body of the device is made of plastic with a matte coating. No dust is visible on it, and all other dirt can be easily removed with a soft cloth or paper napkin. The motor is hidden, which makes the product absolutely safe to use. All removable parts can be washed in the dishwasher. The warranty period for servicing the product is 2 years; when folded, it takes up minimal free space, so this steamer is quite suitable even for a small kitchen. A descaling system is provided, thanks to which the service life of the device is significantly increased.

Advantages:

• The bowls are made of high quality metal;
• Through the glass lid you can always see the degree of readiness of the dish;
• Durable body that will not crack even if the steamer falls from the table;
• The wire has a soft sheath.

Flaws:

• Quite a large diameter of the holes in the bowls;
• Insufficient volume of the cereal container;
• There is no mode for maintaining food temperature after cooking is completed.

steamer Tefal VC1451

Braun FS 3000

This is a fairly modern design, complete with two bowls for preparing various products, a tray for condensation, a special container for rice, buckwheat and other cereals, as well as a container for coloring products such as beets. The model has two tiers where direct cooking takes place, and their total volume is 6.2 liters; the cereal container holds about 2 liters.

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The device has a timer for one hour with subsequent automatic shutdown, a “fast steam” mode and an operation indicator. There is a special sensor that ensures that the device turns off in case of water shortage. The body is made of plastic, the food containers are also plastic. When stored, the device takes up a minimum amount of free space. The bowls can be placed in the dishwasher; there is a niche for storing the power cable.

Advantages:

• Reliable assembly, which ensures the durability of the device;
• Attractive appearance;
• In the event of an emergency or when cooking is completed, the device emits a special sound signal;
• Volume bowl for cereals;
• Ease of management;
• Significant power.

Flaws:

• There are no recesses for boiling eggs;
• It will not be possible to add water during cooking;
• There is no delayed start function.

Steamer Braun FS 3000

ENDEVER Vita 160/161

The product includes a base containing a water tank with a volume of 1.3 liters, a control panel and a heating element. Pallets are built onto it - special containers where the juice of cooked foods and baskets for dishes are collected. The principle of operation is standard: the heating element brings the water in the tank to a boil, it begins to evaporate and rises to the upper sections, where the food should already be lying. The steam temperature is high, so the food cooks very quickly and without a gram of fat. The body is quite durable, although it is made of plastic; inside there is reliable protection against scale, which prevents lime deposits from forming on the heating element. The plastic is heat-resistant and does not begin to melt even when exposed to high temperatures.

On the bottom side of the base there are ventilation holes that provide access to fresh air and prevent the elements of the device from overheating. Rubber feet ensure the device's stability on almost any surface. The product is equipped with two food baskets, the total volume of which is 4 liters. Thanks to this design solution, you can cook two dishes at the same time. Using a double boiler is much simpler and easier compared to a hob; you will have to spend significantly less time preparing food. The power of the device is 800 W. The device has a mechanical timer designed for a maximum of 60 minutes - this time is enough to prepare absolutely any dish.

Advantages:

• Very convenient to use;
• Compact overall dimensions;
• High level of reliability;
• Strength of plastic elements;
• Possibility of simultaneously cooking two dishes at once.

Flaws:

• The control handle is a little tight;
• There is no window in the water tank.

Steamer ENDEVER Vita 160/161

8. Tefal VC 3008 Steam'n'light

This is a fairly compact, but at the same time, roomy model, with three levels for simultaneous preparation of various dishes. For cooking, there are mesh bowls or trays where you can place your favorite sauce or marinade, which will make the food even more delicious. The model is manufactured on the basis of the latest patented compact storage technology.

The control here is digital; the equipment has a timer for one hour; after cooking, the device will automatically turn off, but if necessary, it will maintain a high temperature of the food. The assembly is of very high quality; all bowls, racks and other removable elements can be washed in the dishwasher. The water capacity has a volume of one and a half liters, which is enough to cook three dishes at the same time. If there is not enough water, the device will turn off on its own, emitting a sound signal.

Advantages:

• Works absolutely silently;
• Capacious pallets;
• Attractive appearance;
• Takes up minimal free space;
• It quickly cooks even quite complex dishes.

Flaws:

• Heats water for a long time;
• The inner bowls are sometimes covered with a network of cracks;
• Unreliable plastic parts that quickly fail;
• Despite electronic control, there is no display.

Tefal VC 3008 Steam'n'light

Philips AVENT SCF870

A multifunctional device that combines the capabilities of not only a steamer, but also a blender. First of all, the products were developed for the preparation of baby food, but adults can also use it for their own needs. The power of the device is not too high - only 400 W, the control is mechanical, the rotary control rotates easily and smoothly, so you can set the required parameters very accurately. The volume of the water tank is 200 ml; up to 0.45 ml of liquid or about 800 grams of bulk products can be placed in the blender glass. The weight of the product is only 2 kg. The power cord is short - only 70 cm, so you need to place the steamer in close proximity to an outlet or use extension cords, which is not always convenient. When using the machine as a blender, vibration sensitivity should be taken into account.

There is a hole at the top of the evaporator for steam to pass through. The device comes with a measuring cup and a spatula for removing cooked food. The instructions are completely Russified, there is a book of recipes for children's dishes recommended by 12 pediatricians. The device belongs to the first electrical safety class. In particular, after all the water in the tank has evaporated, it will automatically turn off. The installation of the lid and bowl was also carried out taking into account all safety requirements. However, care must be taken to ensure that no water gets into the engine.

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Advantages:

• Expanded functionality;
• With its help you can prepare food for both small children and adults;
• Cooks quickly;
• Safe to use;
• All useful substances are preserved in the dishes;
• Low energy consumption.

Flaws:

• Small volume of water tank;
• High price.

Philips AVENT SCF870

Kitfort KT-2305

The device is equipped with a basic mechanical control system; just like the previous rating model, it combines the functionality of a blender and a steamer. The product is optimally suited for preparing baby food, since it first steams the food, and at the next stage crushes, grinds and mixes. The result is a very tender puree, which children love very much. A sound signal will notify the user when cooking is complete, so you don’t have to worry about the food taking too long to cook. The power consumption of the device is 400 W, the volume of the jug is 400 ml, it is made of high-strength food-grade plastic. There are no scratches on it, and it is also not afraid of falls.

If necessary, the knife block can be completely disassembled and thoroughly washed. The product comes with a removable 500 ml jug. There are rubber feet on the bottom. Due to them, even during strong vibration, the device will remain in place. The design operates relatively quietly - the maximum noise level is 74 dB. If necessary, all removable elements can be washed in the dishwasher.

Advantages:

• Easy to use;
• Doesn't require a lot of free space;
• Reasonable cost;
• There are measuring scales;
• Cooks quite quickly;
• Parts can be placed in the dishwasher;
• Blender and steamer functionality.

Flaws:

• The power cord is only 80 cm long.

Steamer Kitfort KT-2305

Beaba Babycook Duo

Modern design, equipped with two separate bowls for simultaneous preparation of dishes. The functionality of the device allows you to steam food, chop food, as well as defrost and reheat food. Electricity consumption is not too high - about 800 W. The total volume of both bowls is 2.2 liters. Single-tier steamer. The product has a sound signal to notify you of the end of cooking. There is also an LED indicator that will promptly inform the user about the lack of water in the tank, in addition, there is a scale indicator. When there is too much limescale in the device, it will catch fire. The body of the steamer is made of high-strength plastic with a matte finish. The baskets are made of transparent plastic. All elements that come into contact with food are absolutely safe and do not emit harmful substances into the environment.

When stored, the steamer takes up minimal free space, so it is well suited even for a small kitchen. All products retain their natural taste. The device is very convenient to use - you can easily operate it with one hand. There is only one button for all functions of the device. Grinding is controlled by the user - you can cut products into small pieces or turn them into pulp. Overall dimensions of the product are 38x14x24 cm.

Advantages:

• Cooking takes a minimum of time;
• There is no need to monitor the cooking process;
• All parts can be easily cleaned from any contaminants;
• There are several indicators;
• Controlled chopping function.

Flaws:

• For some users, the hole for inserting the knife begins to crack after a while, so you need to handle the device very carefully.

Beaba Babycook Duo

Polaris PFS 0305AD

A very original product that immediately catches your eye due to its very unusual execution. Despite the fact that it has the usual three tiers, on top it is made of special heat-resistant plastic of increased strength, and the body is made of food-grade stainless steel, which does not retain any dirt. This combination will appeal to lovers of modern styles - modern and high-tech. The total volume of the device is 9 liters, which allows you to prepare food for a large family. The capacity of the water tank here is 1 liter – this is quite enough even for a long cooking cycle.

The steamer is controlled electronically, all elements are distinguished by a high level of reliability and durability, and it is possible to add water to the tank if necessary. There is a delay start function, and the kit comes with three removable grilles. The steamer is equipped with an informative liquid crystal display, there are all the necessary indicators - power on, level of remaining water. Despite its decent dimensions - 27x32x25 cm, the weight of the device is not too large, only 2 kg. The power cord is 1.1 m long, so it is advisable to place the steamer in close proximity to an outlet.

Advantages:

• Acceptable cost of the product;
• There is an automatic shutdown function;
• Sound notification about the completion of cooking;
• High quality workmanship;
• Stylish appearance;
• Very convenient to use;
• Capacious bowls and water tank.

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Flaws:

• Insufficient power cord length.

Steamer Polaris PFS 0305AD

Lumme LU-1405

Third place in the review was taken by a two-level steamer from a brand that is not very well known among Russian consumers. However, in terms of its capabilities, workmanship and service life, this model is far superior to analogues from popular companies. The device is equipped with a water tank with a volume of 0.5 liters, and there are also two plastic bowls for preparing food - they can hold up to 2.5 liters. Each of them has handles for easy carrying. The design of the steamer is well thought out; the chambers are completely isolated from each other, so the dish will not be saturated with the aroma of other food. A double boiler allows you to provide the most delicate temperature treatment of any product - meat, fish, vegetables, poultry, and so on. The device is controlled mechanically, but it is very easy to set all the necessary parameters. There is a delayed start function for a maximum of one hour. You don’t have to monitor the cooking process – the device will do everything on its own.

The device’s protection system is also carefully thought out, which increases the safety of its operation. Water can be added to the tank if necessary, even during operation. If there is little water left, the steamer will inform the user about this with a sound signal. When water is not added for some reason, the product automatically disconnects from the network. The case here is made of plastic, but the material withstands high temperatures and other physical influences well. It does not consume very much electricity - its power is only 400 W.

Advantages:

• Very convenient to use;
• Excellent ergonomics of the device;
• Long service life;
• Reliable mechanical control;
• Reasonably priced;
• Bowls completely isolated from each other;
• Takes up little free space.

Flaws:

• Short cord.

steamer Lumme LU-1405

2. Panasonic NU-SC101

This is one of the newest models of steamers, which appeared on the Russian household appliances market relatively recently. In terms of all its main characteristics, this steamer is one of the best among all those presented in the review. It has only one tier, so you can cook only one dish in it. The control type here is electronic, there is a power indicator, and a large touch display. The capacity is as much as 15 liters, although the external dimensions are not that large.

The device has a convection function, due to which you can prepare up to 15 different types of dishes. This feature will preserve the juiciness of meat, fish and other products due to the fact that heating is carried out as evenly as possible. The temperature is raised to one hundred degrees in just three minutes after starting; if necessary, you can even sterilize various items in the steamer - baby bottles, dishes, and so on.

Advantages:

• High build quality;
• Excellent capacity;
• Long service life;
• Convection function;
• Large capacity.

Flaws:

• Apart from the high price, nothing was found.

Panasonic innovation in cooking! Steam convection oven Panasonic NU-SC101

Panasonic NU-SC101

1. Intelligent steamer Morphy Richards IntelliSteam 470006

The well-deserved first place in our ranking is occupied by the intelligent steamer IntelliSteam 470006 from the British company Morphy Richards. The steamer compares favorably with multi-tiered steamers of the previous generation. IntelliSteam 470006 includes 3 horizontal bays that are independently controlled. Each compartment has its own mode, which allows you to prepare up to 3 dishes with individual taste and aroma.

The built-in smart function provides 8 cooking modes and a synchronization function. Program each compartment at a certain time and relax. The IntelliSteam 470006 steamer retains 50% more vitamins than traditional cooking by using less heat and water. The large capacity (6.8 liter) device fits perfectly on shelves and in cabinets thanks to its ergonomic horizontal design.

Buy the intelligent steamer IntelliSteam 470006 from the manufacturer at the best price!

Advantages:

• Horizontal design;
• Volume 6.8 l;
• 3 independent compartments;
• Intelligence

Flaws:

• More expensive than standard multi-tier steamers

Unique steamer Morphy Richards IntelliSteam 470006

Steamer Morphy Richards IntelliSteam 470006

How to choose a double boiler in terms of price/quality ratio?

In 2021, the following characteristics are considered the main selection criteria:

1. Power . Allows you to determine how quickly dishes will be cooked. For a single-tier device, a power of 400 W is enough, for two – at least 600-700 W, and a three-tier steamer will require at least 800 W.
2. Volume . Based on how often you will use the device and how many servings you will prepare lunch for. For a large family, a built-in device would be a good option.
3. Management . Here, as usual: mechanics are simple, but approximately, electronics are a little more complicated, but with the ability to set the parameters as accurately as possible.
4. Basket material . Plastic is cheaper and makes it easier to track the cooking process. Stainless steel will last a long time, but there will be no visibility, and this affects the weight of the device. Glass is both durable and transparent, but can break if dropped.
5. Equipment . Significantly expands the functionality of the device. It may include various accessories in the form of a rice bowl, molds for muffins or boiling eggs, a recipe book, spoons, containers for spices.
6. Additional functions . It is useful to be able to add liquid so as not to turn off the device in the middle of cooking. By the way, it is better to choose a model with protection against low water levels, otherwise you will have to stand over the steamer until cooking is complete. The quick steam function reduces operating time by half, while maintaining maximum vitamins and taste.

Functions

Now let's see what capabilities steamers have.

These functions make using the device convenient, safe and save the owner’s time:

• There is a timer in both budget devices and luxury devices, but they are implemented differently. In cheap mechanical models, the timer is set with a rotary control, which moves to value “0” as cooking progresses. When it is reached, heating is completed. In expensive units, the cooking period is monitored by an electronic system with a set clock.
• Keep warm – the temperature of the finished dish is maintained for a certain period of time.
• Delayed start – allows you to set the start of processing at a convenient time. You can choose a period from 1 to 12 hours, and then a fresh dinner will be waiting for you when you return home.
• Fast steam - the power increases, so the heating and processing process occurs twice as fast.
• Adding water - often the water runs out in the compartment and the device turns off. You have to remove all the baskets, risking getting burned by the hot steam, and pour in a fresh portion. So, to facilitate and speed up the procedure, the manufacturers have provided a special hole for convenient topping up (pictured) right during cooking.

• Water level indicator - makes it possible to monitor the liquid level and, if necessary, replenish it.
• Overheating protection - if you do not keep track of the amount of liquid and its level becomes less than required, the device turns off. Some also emit a beep or display a message on the display. Even the cheapest models are equipped with this function, only, of course, without notification.
• Child lock – installed on expensive electronic devices and locks the control panel so that fidgets cannot change the settings.

Of course, these are not all the options that are present in steamers. Each manufacturer strives to somehow highlight their products and add “usefulness” to them, and therefore demand. However, additional bells and whistles negatively affect the cost of products - it inevitably increases.

Check out this review as well. It will help you get an even more complete picture of choosing a similar product.