When choosing a double boiler, it should be borne in mind that the presence of an additional function to alert a lack of water will be a nice bonus. The system may automatically shut down if the required fluid level is not available. In this case, there is a choice: either wait for the containers to cool, manually remove them and pour water, or buy a device with the possibility of instant water filling during operation.
Indicator and Filling
This function implies the presence of a small hole on the side where water can be poured. Thanks to a special indicator, you can not only receive an alert about insufficient fluid level, but also find out the volume of water inside
Models worth paying attention to: BORK F500, BORK F700 - you cannot choose the best model from them, both double boiler at the same quality
Special protection
A nice (even necessary) bonus is the presence of special protective pads. Steam formations should go somewhere, but just the presence of such pallets solves the problem. When purchasing a double boiler, highlight:
- lining height. It should not be too small, otherwise during active work it is necessary to turn off the double boiler, manually drain the accumulated water - the probability of its overflowing on the heating mechanism in this case is very high,
- the presence of pens. Special devices for quickly pulling out the lining from the base - greatly simplify the maintenance of the double boiler. For example, the need to wait until the device cools down is not required.
Nozzles and accessories
Containers and other accessories go to almost any double boiler. The main accessories that should be present in each standard set:
- side dish
- grate - a special stand for processing eggs,
- container for rice. As a rule, it can be recognized by the absence of holes around the perimeter,
- a lattice-type device for processing whole products,
- condensate drain pads,
- cups or separate devices for spices, draining juice or fat - used for the correct combination of products, without mixing their juices and smells,
- a special device (in the form of a stand) for products with coloring pigment - for example, for beets,
- a special-purpose mechanism with which the temperature inside the double boiler is easily controlled (if this accessory is not included in the standard set for a double boiler, then it can be purchased at any electronics store separately),
- sometimes a cookbook with recipes comes to the standard set. If it is available, then you can cook the most delicious and unusual culinary masterpieces.
Additional functions
Currently, manufacturers keep up to date: equip the necessary functionality of a double boiler for the home, simplifying life as much as possible. In addition to the main operating parameters, double boiler can surprise with additions. The main ones are:
- the function "preservation of vitamins" - is present on some models as a separate button. Using this mode, the steam heats up to a maximum in a short time, processing products in quick mode. Due to this, as nutritionists comment, the harmful effects of heat treatment are reduced and all trace elements are preserved. Tefal's Vitamin + steam cooker has this feature.
- the function "ready-made recipes" - allows you to work the double boiler in automatic mode when you select the product marked in the panel menu. Thus, the most appropriate cooking mode is selected,
- mechanism for automatically checking the working condition. This option is present in all devices, with the exception of the cheapest Chinese assemblies. The latter should be discarded,
- time timer - is present in the form of an electronic pointer on electric double boiler. Shows the total cooking time, as well as the remaining minutes of cooking,
- sound notification - signals on switching on, off and the end of cooking.
Features
Often we strive to fill the body exhausted with stress and overload with vitamins. We run to the pharmacy, spend large amounts for the treasured boxes with multi-colored pills. But if a small double boiler appears in the house, the need for “pharmacy” spending will disappear. And all because the kitchen appliance prepares products while preserving all their useful valuable and nutritious properties.
She still has many advantages. Food in it should be cooked without adding salt. Maybe it’s not entirely clear on the taste, but doctors say that after such dishes the joints will stop “crunching”.
At the same time, you can cook several products in it at once - vegetables, meat, fish. To do this, the device has bowls of the same volume, they are installed in special “cells” already with the product, the preparation of which is carried out independently. If the products are too greasy or juicy, the remaining liquid drains into special trays. But at the same time, the finished dish will still be soft and juicy, because it is steamed and in its own juice. And another big plus - even in the smallest double boiler you can not only cook, but also heat food.
Which is better: a double boiler or an air grill?
Today, competition between a double boiler and an air grill is becoming increasingly acute. Their functions are similar, which means that there is a reason for reflection when choosing a really necessary device.
The main differences between a double boiler and an air grill:
- in a double boiler you can cook several dishes at the same time, in a hot air grill - one,
- the air grill is able to dry, bake, fry, steam, smoke meat and fish, the double boiler is the best in cooking with steam,
- the cost of a double boiler with a large number of modes corresponds to the cost of a middle class air grill,
- air grill is able to replace the oven and microwave.
How to choose?
The first criterion for a model is its size. The volume of steam baskets here ranges from 1.5 to 3.5 liters, and the volume of the bowl for rice and any other side dishes is from 0.7 l to 2 l. Everyone who wants to buy a double boiler should soberly assess the frequency of preparations and the number of people in the family who prefer steamed food. So, if you have to cook exclusively children's dishes, containers with minimal dimensions will become quite sufficient.
The next important aspect is power. Modern models are presented in the range from 600 to 2000 watts. It is worth saying that it is absolutely not necessary to chase the most powerful devices here, because the speed of prepared dishes is affected not only by power, but also by the availability of useful and high-speed modes, for example, “fast steam”.
It is worth saying that the number of modes in most models is 2-3. Models in the high price segment delight users with 5-6 modes. The most basic and important are:
- cooking,
- defrost
- steam boost for sterilizing bottles.
When choosing the number of steam baskets, it is also worth considering the size of the family. So, two tiers are enough for cooking a family of three. A larger number of tiers will increase the volume of cooked food, however, it will increase the cooking time, because filling with steam all the containers will be slower.
If you want to save your own time, you can pay attention to the presence of a water indicator. It will allow not to raise baskets to check the remaining water
Another time-saving feature is the ability to add water during cooking through the hole. In its absence, overheating of the double boiler is possible, its automatic shutdown. Add water in this situation is possible only after the device is completely turned off and all the baskets are lifted.
Material for steam baskets is one of the key values. It can be made of heat-resistant plastic, glass or stainless steel. The latter option is most acceptable and successful, because the food in it retains temperature for a longer time. Transparent plastic bowls are very foggy during the cooking process, so the desire to see food during cooking is not destined to come true.
Babycook solo
If you need a small single serving of food, such as for a baby, then it makes sense to look at this small-sized model. The built-in blender solves the problem of preparing children's fruit, vegetable purees, mixtures, which is perfectly suited to parents who want to feed their baby natural, environmentally friendly products.
Of the technical characteristics, mention should be made of the presence of an electronic backlit screen that reflects the stages of the work process, a timer, a scale indicator and the auto-off function at the ready stage.
Chicco BabyPapa
The brand focuses on the production of goods for infants and older children. Perhaps there is no such area of products for babies where Chicco would not have “had a hand in it”. Household appliances are no exception.
To purchase a steam oven mini from this company is not just to make your life easier, but to fully enjoy the rainbow of tastes of natural vegetables, fruits and berries.
A double boiler is ideal for preparing baby food, heats food, thawes, whips milkshakes.
Type of control - mechanical.
Unit USC-181
Convenient three-level model, capable of preparing several dishes at once in one go. If you remove two levels, you get an excellent sterilizer for bottles. Low price makes this device affordable for all categories of consumers.
What is it: device and principle of operation
If you have never encountered such a technique, then you should first of all deal with what it is. A double boiler is a convenient electrical technique that allows you to process food using hot steam. This cooking method is much more useful because it allows you to save all the important trace elements in the products. As a result, food is more healthy and nutritious.
If you look at its description, you can understand that the technique consists of several components. The main base stores all the heating elements. When you turn on the double boiler, it begins to heat the liquid, which is poured into a container specially available for this purpose. There you can pour water and when it warms up, steam will start to be released. It is he who is used to process products.
Above are the steam baskets. They should be made of durable material, but not too heavy so that the pallet does not bend under pressure. Their number varies, depending on what type of unit you have. Tanks for products can be from one to three. This is very convenient, since you can put one basket on another, preparing several dishes at once. Since a power of 2000 watts is not uncommon for steamers, baskets are made of durable plastic, stainless steel or specially glass so that they do not emit any harmful substances under the influence of high temperature.
At the bottom of the baskets, regardless of how many there are, special holes should be present. They let steam through and provide delicious and nutritious food.
Also in each double boiler should be a pan. It collects all the excess fluid. Indeed, when processing products with steam, condensate is released. As a rule, in double boiler it is only one for all baskets. But there are more expensive models in which their number is equal to the number of baskets. This option is more convenient, but also costs, respectively, more expensive.
First of all, such a double boiler, of course, will please those who monitor their health. At home, using this technique you can cook delicious and sophisticated dishes without any effort. And steam processing instead of frying makes any food more healthy, which is confirmed by more than one study.
Another useful feature of the double boiler is that you can use it to defrost foods and reheat food. And mummies will be pleased with the fact that in it you can also sterilize children's dishes. Hot steam treatment instantly kills all bacteria, which is very convenient.
Another undoubted advantage is that when you buy a double boiler with several massive baskets, you can cook several dishes at a time. It is convenient for large families and those who often receive guests. This technique will make your life easier and save you a lot of time.
The double boiler is very easy to operate, because it does not burn anything even for those who are not very good at cooking. The fact is that when the time elapses, which is needed to prepare a certain dish, the device automatically turns off, or goes into heat storage mode. So, even if you are distracted by extraneous matters, your dish will still not burn.
In addition, under the influence of steam, food always turns out to be juicy and very tasty. So, if your dishes often turn out to be rather dry, then a double boiler will definitely save you.
This technique is also very easy to clean. To do this, just open the double boiler and rinse the wire rack and containers with warm water and detergent. After washing, the details of the double boiler must be thoroughly dried, and only then close it. Thus, you will extend the life of your equipment for several months, or even years.
You can also immediately cook food and put it on the timer. So she will immediately prepare, but will not cool off for your return home. This is a very convenient feature. She will save busy women and those who cook for the whole family. If you have dinner and lunch at different times, then this feature will be very useful for you.
Such steamers and students have chosen. In hostels it is always forbidden to keep electric stoves, but a double boiler will allow you to set fire without risk, to be evicted, to cook delicious food. In this case, it is not necessary to buy a multi-level model. One basket will be enough for you to prepare delicious food for yourself.
About what are good induction steamers with a mechanical or electronic control system, and will be discussed later.
Varieties: advantages and disadvantages
Among many varieties of double boiler there are different types of units. The main thing in which they differ is the power and control features.
It is recommended to pay attention to these characteristics when buying.
The size of the baskets also affects the cooking speed. In a large capacity, food will take much longer to cook. Even if you do not fill the container completely with food. But too compact baskets, or containers made of low-quality material, are not the best option for a double boiler.
Another option is a unit with a mechanical control system. Such steamers are easier to manage. When cooking, you just need to press a few buttons, including a double boiler, and setting the cooking time. And she herself will do everything for you.
There are also double boiler with additional functions. If you need a smokehouse, air grill or food processor, then a double boiler may well become a replacement for all the units listed above. The main thing is to choose the equipment with the modes you need. After all, a folding double boiler with a grinder, no matter how universal it may be, will not be needed in any kitchen.
Another convenient pressure cooker option is the folding road model. A mini steamer is the thing that will save you when traveling to another city or relaxing. A good compact steam cooker, taken on the road, will save you from having to spend a lot of money on food in public places.
After all, if in a three-level double boiler there will be no separate pan for each tier, then the food from the bottom will be saturated with condensate or broth.And the insert in the form of a pan, in which all the liquid is collected, will easily prevent this.
A multi-level steam boiler at first glance seems too cumbersome. But, given how many functions it performs immediately, it is entirely justified. By installing such a multifunctional thing in your kitchen, you can get rid of a frying pan, microwave and even an air grill. So, despite the fact that the multi-level double boiler is quite large, you should not refuse it only for this reason.
Benefits
The main purpose of such a machine is to cook healthy and tasty food. Initially, the device was used only by people who have digestive problems. Some may not eat fried, stewed or baked foods, and the best option in such cases is to purchase a double boiler. Due to steam, this device processes products in such a way that they become as useful as possible.
- the base is the main part on which the baskets are located. At the very base are several important components of the structure, and it itself represents the fixing part,
- heating part - is located inside the base and consists of heating type mechanisms. Due to them, water condenses into steam,
- water tank - used as the main "fuel" part of a double boiler. Water is poured into it so that the steam boiler functions correctly. There are some restrictions on using this unit. For example, it is impossible to apply and turn on the mechanism if there is no water in it, and also if it is at a minimum level. Many steam cookers have an automatic alert that the water level is close to critical,
- control panel - depending on the type of double boiler, it can be touch or button. Includes a menu, several buttons to control,
- baskets - the upper part of the double boiler, which allows you to hold a large number of processed products.
Power
First of all, the speed of work will depend on this indicator, and secondly, the capabilities of its functionality. Actually, the greater the power, the more the double boiler can - this is the main designation of these figures.
Bowls (baskets)
Keep in mind that having multiple baskets is a big advantage. In such a double boiler you can cook several dishes at once. If the family is large - this is the best option. Manufacturers offer a wide variety of options - from a single bowl to several baskets. With a large number of additional bowls, however, the cooking time increases. It is better to prioritize immediately, which is more important: to cook a lot and for a long time, or quickly, but a little.
Fine steamers - with a large number of quality bowls - are represented by the BORK - F500 and Philips - HD 9120/91 models. They have good power and also feature high performance.
The volume of baskets is an important criterion. Depending on the needs and application of the double boiler, you should select the optimal indicator: from 1.5 liters to 4 liters. Small bowls are suitable for quick and small amounts of food at a time, and large containers require bulk containers.
Additions
Applications include additional cooking containers. Cooking rice, cereals, soups and simply heating food is possible thanks to a container without holes. In this case, the steam completely processes the food without touching the food. The best models that have such extra bowls are presented by BORK - F500 and Braun - FS20.
Another interesting container is presented for spices. For example, in some models there are special compartments where you can put greens, hot pepper or other seasonings to give a special flavor to dishes. The device is present in a double boiler from Philips - HD 9150/00.
A nice bonus that equip a double boiler is a container for coloring juice. It is used in the processing of, for example, beets or carrots. Juice drains into a special compartment, without staining the remaining vegetables and without staining the double boiler. This device can be found on the Braun FS20.
How to choose a double boiler for home
Which double boiler is better to buy? When choosing, pay attention to the functionality of the device. Budget models are only suitable for steaming, they do not have the function of heating or maintaining heat
More expensive equipment is designed for cooking several dishes at once for a large family.
Some housewives purchase a double boiler exclusively for preparing vegetable or fruit puree for a child
Therefore, before going to the store, it is important to understand what characteristics and functions the device should have
Functions and Features
Inexpensive multicookers are equipped with the functions of defrosting, steaming, heating food. Expensive devices have more advanced functionality: timer, delayed start, water level indicator, automatic cleaning reminder. The power of the device for use at home varies from 400 to 2000 watts.
For a large family, purchase a double boiler with 3 separate bowls. The volume of each is from 3 to 4 liters. The shape of the bowls is oval, round or rectangular. In some devices, the bowls are equipped with a removable bottom to combine several containers into one and increase the volume. Bowls vary in type of coating. The non-stick bottom allows you to cook products in your own juice, which makes them even tastier and healthier.
In addition to the bowl, pay attention to the accessories. This is a grate for fish or poultry, a basket for cereals, a plastic spoon
Thanks to them, the functionality of the double boiler is significantly expanded, it is not only steamed, but also baked whole meat on the grill or cook pea porridge.
Rating of the best models
Which double boiler is better? The top 5 best models compiled by experts will answer this question:
- Tefal VC 1301 Minicompact. The device is made of durable plastic, which is easy to care for, weighs little, is durable and does not absorb odors. Power 650 W, this is enough for cooking simple dishes. The double boiler is compact, suitable for placement in a small kitchen. It looks stylish, equipped with a sound alert in case of boiling water. The composition includes 3 bowls, the total volume of which is 7 liters. The price is about 4,000 rubles.
- Endever Vita 160. The mechanical double boiler is equipped with a timer and double overheat protection. Consists of 2 bowls with a volume of 1.3 liters. Power 800 W, thanks to the transparent walls it is convenient to observe the process of cooking products. The device is also intended for thawing food and sterilizing dishes. Capacity is washed manually or in the dishwasher. The cost of technology is 1,400 rubles.
- The Philips HD9140 comes with 3 plastic bowls, a removable bottom, a spice tray and an egg head. The electric double boiler is a timer, thermostat, automatic cooking. Power 900 W, a compartment for the power cord is provided. The case is made of plastic and stainless steel, the volume of all bowls is 8.6 liters. The price is 1 700 rubles.
- BRAUN FS 5100. Power 850 W, 2 plastic bowls with a volume of 3.1 liters each. The control is mechanical, there is a timer, a sound signal, the "Quick Steam" mode and an indication of inclusion. The case and baskets are made of plastic, the set includes a bowl for rice. A separate container for coloring products is provided: beets, carrots, berries. The double boiler can be washed in the dishwasher. The price is 5 800 rubles.
- CENTEK CT-1457 is a low-cost device designed for steaming eggs, side dishes, meat and fish. In the kit there are 3 baskets of transparent plastic, a recess for eggs, a bowl for rice. The double boiler is equipped with a water level indicator and the “Quick Steam” mode. Power 800 W, housing made of stainless steel.
The best double boiler with mechanical control type Tefal VC1451 with metal bowls
- good power - 900 watts,
- self-timer
- basket material - stainless steel,
- it costs 4150-5900 rubles.
The device tops the rating of double boiler, because it allows you to cook a delicious and most healthy dish in less than an hour. Thanks to its high power (900 W), steam supply starts within a minute.
The technique will help you enjoy the benefits of steaming. It has 2 tiers, the total volume is 6 liters. This is enough to prepare a healthy dinner for a large family. Stainless steel baskets will last much longer than plastic ones. They are folded, which saves space during storage.
Mechanical control, even a child will understand. It is enough to set the rotary switch for the required time. As soon as it expires, the device will notify you with a sound signal and stop working. A water indicator is provided on the case; if necessary, you can add it to a special compartment, not including the device.
Reviews
In this model, steel bowls, which are rarely found in double boiler. The metal does not absorb odors, does not darken, does not rust, and is resistant to mechanical stress. If the plastic container is accidentally damaged, it will be difficult to find a new one. Here, if accidentally dropped, it will not crack like plastic.
- steel baskets,
- steam is supplied within a minute after switching on - no need to wait long until the water heats up, boils and transforms into a gaseous state,
- disconnect on its own,
- there is a bowl for rice.
Best electronically controlled steamer Tefal VC 3008 Steam'n'light
- powerful, 900 watts,
- total volume - 10 l,
- 3 plastic baskets,
- costs 6300-11300 rubles.
The device is included in the rating of the best double boiler, as it is a simple and reliable assistant for every housewife. Steam cutlets, meatballs, juicy vegetables, mushrooms, fish and much more can be cooked in it. The device is powerful and able to heat water to a state of steam in a minute. Capacious plastic baskets are designed for a total volume of 10 liters. If there are a lot of products, and there was not enough poured water, you can add it at any time in a special compartment.
There are 6 cooking programs and a 1 hour timer with an automatic shut-off function. The model is made in an ergonomic design, compact and easy to use. With it you can cook tasty, fast and healthy.
Vs:
- There is no mode of keeping the food warm.
Best electronically controlled steamer Tefal VC 3008 Steam'n'light
- powerful, 900 watts,
- total volume - 10 l,
- 3 plastic baskets,
- costs 6300-11300 rubles.
The device is included in the rating of the best double boiler, as it is a simple and reliable assistant for every housewife. Steam cutlets, meatballs, juicy vegetables, mushrooms, fish and much more can be cooked in it. The device is powerful and able to heat water to a state of steam in a minute. Capacious plastic baskets are designed for a total volume of 10 liters. If there are a lot of products, and there was not enough poured water, you can add it at any time in a special compartment.
There are 6 cooking programs and a 1 hour timer with an automatic shut-off function. The model is made in an ergonomic design, compact and easy to use. With it you can cook tasty, fast and healthy.
Reviews
Users are satisfied with the functionality of the device. High power, deep pallets allow you to cook a healthy dinner in less than an hour for the whole family. Due to the intensive steam supply, the products on the upper tier are processed without problems even with a maximum load of the two lower ones.
- powerful, starts to steam in a minute,
- 6 programs
- large capacity
- You can add water without turning off the device.
Vs:
- no remaining water can be seen
- no bowl for rice.
Best Philips AVENT SCF883 best electric blender
- power - 400 W
- capacity - 1 l
- food chopping function,
- It costs 11050-13000 rubles.
The model will be an excellent choice for parents of young children. With its help, you can cook vegetables, meat or fish with the preservation of nutrients, juice, structure of products, and then grind them to a puree state.
The blender has a convenient heating function. If the mashed potato has cooled, then you can heat it directly in the jug. There is also a defrost of products. For all stages of cooking, one jug is used, which can be washed in a dishwasher. Due to the minimum number of parts, the device is very convenient to store. Power is not the most powerful - 400 W, but given that the volume of the bowl is only 1 liter, this is more than enough. When the dish is ready, the appliance will beep.
Kitchen assistant
Exceptionally healthy food - these are the latest recommendations from a doctor after complaining of stomach pain, poor appetite and weight gain. You have to forget about fast food, delicious fried chicken legs, ketchup and smoked bacon and start eating right. Healthy food, as it turns out, is "hidden" in a double boiler. These modest small appliances are ready to work wonders. Everything is subject to them - meat, fish, chicken, vegetables.
In a short time and according to a special recipe, they will cook such that you just lick your fingers.
And the double boiler is able to feed a baby who needs exclusively natural dishes, without preservatives, artificial additives and other “charms”, which are added by the manufacturers from the heart.
Using a special recipe and fresh products, this household appliance will offer diet food to any table, for any reason and for any age. Dishes prepared in it are of great benefit to the body.
