Steam Oven Vs Electric Steamer: Which Is The Ultimate Cooking Machine For Health-conscious Foodies?
What To Know
- Steam ovens typically have a water reservoir, a heating element, and a fan that circulates the steam throughout the oven cavity.
- Steam ovens use a combination of steam and heat to cook food, while electric steamers rely solely on steam.
- If you are looking for a versatile appliance that can be used for a variety of cooking methods, a steam oven is a good choice.
In the world of cooking, there are two popular appliances that offer a unique and healthy way to prepare food: steam ovens and electric steamers. Both appliances use steam to cook food, but they have different features, benefits, and drawbacks. In this blog post, we will compare steam ovens vs electric steamers to help you decide which one is the best fit for your kitchen.
What is a Steam Oven?
A steam oven is a kitchen appliance that uses steam to cook food. It combines the benefits of steaming and baking, allowing you to cook food quickly and evenly while preserving its nutrients and flavors. Steam ovens typically have a water reservoir, a heating element, and a fan that circulates the steam throughout the oven cavity.
What is an Electric Steamer?
An electric steamer is a kitchen appliance that uses steam to cook food. It consists of a water reservoir, a heating element, and a perforated cooking tray or basket. The water is heated until it boils, producing steam that rises and cooks the food placed on the tray or basket. Electric steamers are often used for cooking vegetables, seafood, and dumplings.
Steam Oven vs Electric Steamer: Key Differences
1. Cooking Method: Steam ovens use a combination of steam and heat to cook food, while electric steamers rely solely on steam. This difference in cooking methods results in different textures and flavors in the cooked food.
2. Versatility: Steam ovens are more versatile than electric steamers. They can not only steam food but also bake, roast, and grill. Electric steamers, on the other hand, are limited to steaming.
3. Capacity: Steam ovens typically have a larger capacity than electric steamers. This means that you can cook larger quantities of food in a steam oven.
4. Price: Steam ovens are generally more expensive than electric steamers. This is because they have more features and are more versatile.
5. Installation: Steam ovens require professional installation, while electric steamers are typically countertop appliances that can be plugged in and used immediately.
Benefits of Steam Ovens
- Healthy Cooking: Steam ovens use less oil and fat than traditional cooking methods, making them a healthier choice. Steaming preserves nutrients and flavors better than other cooking methods.
- Quick and Even Cooking: Steam ovens cook food quickly and evenly. This is because steam penetrates food more easily than hot air.
- Versatile: Steam ovens can be used for a variety of cooking methods, including steaming, baking, roasting, and grilling.
- Easy to Clean: Steam ovens are relatively easy to clean. The steam helps to loosen food residue, making it easy to wipe down the oven cavity.
Benefits of Electric Steamers
- Compact and Portable: Electric steamers are compact and portable, making them a good choice for small kitchens or for people who live in apartments.
- Easy to Use: Electric steamers are very easy to use. Simply fill the water reservoir, place the food on the cooking tray or basket, and set the timer.
- Affordable: Electric steamers are typically more affordable than steam ovens.
- Energy-Efficient: Electric steamers are energy-efficient appliances. They use less energy than traditional cooking methods.
Which One Should You Choose?
The best appliance for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you are looking for a versatile appliance that can be used for a variety of cooking methods, a steam oven is a good choice. If you are looking for a compact and affordable appliance that is easy to use, an electric steamer is a good option.
Alternatives to Steam Ovens and Electric Steamers
In addition to steam ovens and electric steamers, there are other appliances that can be used to steam food. These include:
- Microwave Ovens with Steam Function: Some microwave ovens have a steam function that allows you to steam food.
- Pressure Cookers: Pressure cookers can be used to steam food quickly and easily.
- Bamboo Steamers: Bamboo steamers are a traditional Chinese cooking utensil that can be used to steam food over a pot of boiling water.
Final Thoughts: The Ultimate Steaming Showdown
Whether you choose a steam oven or an electric steamer, you can enjoy the benefits of healthy and delicious steamed food. Both appliances offer unique features and benefits, so the best choice for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
What You Need to Learn
1. Can I use a steam oven to cook rice?
Yes, you can use a steam oven to cook rice. Simply place the rice in a heatproof dish, add water, and set the oven to the steam setting.
2. Can I use an electric steamer to cook vegetables?
Yes, you can use an electric steamer to cook vegetables. Simply place the vegetables in the steamer basket, add water to the reservoir, and set the timer.
3. Which appliance is easier to clean, a steam oven or an electric steamer?
Steam ovens are generally easier to clean than electric steamers. The steam helps to loosen food residue, making it easy to wipe down the oven cavity. Electric steamers, on the other hand, may require more scrubbing to remove food residue from the cooking tray or basket.
