Microwave steamers: how to choose and use?

Recently, healthy eating has come into vogue, and steam cooking is an integral part of it. This can be done quickly and tasty using a microwave oven. How to combine a microwave and a double boiler, what are the pros and cons of this method, we will tell you in our article.

Some modern microwave ovens come with a steamer. However, this product can be purchased separately. There are a number of advantages to cooking food this way.

• Cooking takes much less time than a conventional steamer. In addition, if the product is included in the kit, the oven is equipped with a function when self-cleaning is performed with the help of steam. This makes it easier to take care of the device and not spend a lot of time cleaning its working surface.
• Also, there are no problems with washing the steamer. It can be tidied up both independently and using the dishwasher. This also contributes to significant time savings.
• Microwaves with this function can be used to sterilize dishes. This is especially convenient in relation to containers for baby food and cans for preservation. You can also handle dishes used by a sick person, hot steam easily kills pathogenic bacteria and viruses.
• It is impossible to ignore the fact that combining these two devices can save space in the kitchen.

As for the disadvantages, it should be noted that a microwave oven with a similar function will have a higher price.

Steamers for microwave ovens are presented on the modern market in a large assortment. They may differ both in appearance and in equipment. The consumer decides which one to choose individually. The complete set can be of several types. Among them are single-tier, two-tier and non-standard. They all have their own characteristics.

• The single-tier structure has a container for water, condensate, and only one level for storing food.
• The bunk has a second basket for food and a tray in which condensation collects. This model is considered the most convenient, since it becomes possible to cook 2 different dishes at once.
• Non-standard steamers are distinguished by additional elements.

The steamer can be self-contained. In this case, she will need a separate seat. If we are talking about a built-in model, it will already refer to electrical structures. When the steamer does not come with a microwave oven, it can be purchased separately, focusing on the size of the household appliances.

Steamers are usually made of food grade plastic. This plastic product has all the necessary characteristics and is excellent for microwave ovens. The material is strong enough, which allows it to serve for a long time without breaking or deforming. It is environmentally friendly, does not contain harmful substances that can pose a threat to health. And finally, it is very easy to care for and wash, which is also an important condition.

Microwave steamers come in a variety of shapes. The choice depends on the preferences of the buyer. There are round, square, oval and rectangular models on store shelves. Consumers are advised to purchase round steamers, as they are more convenient than other models. When buying, you should pay attention to the size of the structure, since too large may simply not fit into the existing microwave oven. You also need to consider how much food you need to cook.

Manufacturers offer a fairly large color palette of models and a variety of designs. The steamer is available in standard white or brighter colors.

There are usually no problems with the operation of the structure. However, to begin with, it is recommended that you read the instructions for use. It looks like this. After purchase, the product must be thoroughly washed. If provided by the instructions, then pour water into the lower container. However, there are models in which this step is not required.

Pre-prepared products are laid on the tiers. We recommend using the lower basket for cooking meat and fish. The temperature will be higher there, and these foods require longer cooking. The upper basket is filled with side dishes and vegetables, which are steamed quickly enough. Everything is closed with a lid and placed in the microwave.

The cover most often has a steam pressure valve. It is necessary to control the cooking speed and quality of food. Excess liquid will drain into the pan, and the products themselves are steamed, preserving all useful and nutritious elements. To ensure the vegetables cook evenly, steamer users advise that before placing them in the basket, first pierce them in several places. If vegetables are being cut, add a little water.

The time required for the preparation of a particular dish is selected according to the instructions. On average, it is 15 to 20 minutes.Vegetables can be cooked a little earlier, but meat will take about 25 minutes.

When the time is up and the dish is ready, the steamer should be removed from the microwave oven. It is imperative to use oven mitts or a towel, otherwise there is a risk of getting burned. Care must be taken when removing the cover as hot steam can burn too. After the products are laid out on the plate, the structure must be thoroughly washed and dried.

Users can make some mistakes when cooking with a steamer. The most common of these are insufficient or excessive time spent on cooking, insufficient or no water in the structure, when provided, as well as adding seasonings and spices to the liquid container. If you follow the basic recommendations, you can delight yourself and your family with delicious and healthy food every day.

In the next video, you will find an overview of the Microvap two-level steamer for the microwave oven.