What Is The UK’s Best Steamer Insert?
Food steamers come in all shapes and sizes, but one thing is for sure: they’re a great way to cook food without using any oil or butter. Plus, they’re perfect for cooking vegetables and other delicate foods. Steamer inserts make it easier to separate your foods within the steamer and cook them the way you want. In this article we’ll look at the best steamer inserts available, to help you find the right one for your model.
Steamer Insert Reviews
Steamer Insert Buyer’s Guide
We all know the importance of a healthy diet, but many people are unaware of the impact different cooking processes can have on your food. Steaming your food is one of the best ways to cook, both in terms of taste and health. Steaming retains most of the nutritional value of your food, without ruining the taste!
A steamer insert can be added to either a pan or pressure cooker to transform it into a steamer. There’s a range of steamer inserts on the market, in varying sizes and designs.
Not sure what to look for when it comes to the best steamer insert? Take a look at this buyer’s guide.
Size
The capacity of your steamer basket will depend on how much food you plan on cooking in one go. Most steamers designed for household use have a capacity of around 3L.
It’s also important that your steamer insert fits in either your pot or pressure cooker. Those with a graduated base are the most versatile, able to be slotted into a range of pans. Steamer baskets for pressure cookers are usually designed with a certain size of pressure cooker in mind.
Design
The design of steamer inserts can vary. Stainless steel steamer inserts are designed for either pots or pressure cookers. Those with a graduated base can fit into a range of sizes of pans, and they often have handles at the sides.
Collapsible steamer inserts can also transform any pot into a steamer, and these are a little more practical when it comes to storage. Collapsible inserts are usually made from silicone and can be folded away for easy storage. They can be nearly packed into a drawer or small cupboard.
Steamer inserts designed for pressure cookers often have just one handle, and you should ensure this is heat-resistant so you can easily remove the insert from your cooker.
Steamers that come with a pot or lid included are great value for money, but this isn’t a necessary feature.
Material
Steamer inserts are usually made from either stainless steel or silicone. Stainless steel is non-corrosive and very durable, while it’s also exceptionally easy to clean. It’ll pair well with the rest of your pots and pans.
Silicone is another option that’s become more and more popular when it comes to kitchen equipment. Silicone steamer inserts are often collapsible, and they are also both flexible and versatile. They can usually adjust to a range of pan sizes.
Durability
Steamer baskets are very affordable, but it’s important that they are long-lasting. The best quality steamers should last a long time and be suitable for daily use.
Steamer Insert FAQ
How to use a steamer insert?
Using a steamer insert is exceptionally easy. Simply bring a pan of water to the boil, and place the steamer insert onto the pan. Add your vegetables or whatever it is that you are steaming to the basket, then close the lid. As the water boils, the steam will cook your food.
The cooking time will vary based on what you’re cooking, but vegetables should take just a few minutes to cook. Once you think they are ready, you should instantly remove the steamer from the pan (and not just turn off the heat), as otherwise they will continue to cook.