In a family where they monitor health or a figure, an electric food steamer must certainly appear, which makes it possible to cook healthy food .
What is an electric steamer?
In fact, a steamer is a device where food is cooked for a couple. In its plastic or metal housing there is a heating element, a water tank and, of course, a control unit. On top of the shell is a tray to collect food from the juice and steam bowls, tiers, where products are placed. Usually bowls are made of heat-resistant plastic. In the expensive segment there are models of electric steam cooker glass, more precisely from this material its bowls are made.
When boiling water in the tank, steam is released, which has a thermal effect on food. Thanks to this method of preparation, the products have a special taste, contain more vitamins and are dietary.
By the way, electric steamers have "competitors" in the form of gas or gas devices. This is a pan, inside which there are several lattice-tiers, where food is put for cooking. Steam is formed from water, which is poured into the bottom of the pan. Thus, there is no heating element in the gas cooker.
If we talk about which steamer is better - electric or gas, then both options have strengths and weaknesses. The gas steamer has the following advantages:
- is cheaper;
- easier to manage;
- practically does not break;
- independent of electricity;
- is compact.
At the same time for cooking in it without a gas stove can not do. Due to the absence of the control panel, it is not possible to set the duration or a specific cooking program.
In turn, the electric steamer is not without advantages , namely:
- it is autonomous;
- it has a control unit that includes a timer and cooking modes.
There are a number of disadvantages:
- cost;
- more complex management;
- dependence on electricity;
- probability of breakage.
In addition, the device is more dimensional. True, this does not apply to an electric mini-steamer, consisting of a smaller body and one bowl for food.
How to use an electric steamer?
To learn how to use a steamer is easy:
- First, water in a special container capacity is recruited at a certain level.
- Then, a moisture collection tray is inserted over the body, a smaller diameter bowl with products is placed on it, then, if necessary, one or two more bowls.
- The last level is covered with a lid.
- In the mechanical control unit a timer is set, in the electronic one - a timer or the desired cooking mode. After the timer signal sounds, the steamer must be disconnected from the mains.
- Remember that bowls are hot, so it's best to let them cool down or use potholders.