Clam steamers are an essential tool for seafood cooking enthusiasts. These specialized pots are designed to cook clams and other shellfish evenly and quickly, delivering that mouthwatering flavor that you love. Selecting the right clam steamer pot may not immediately reveal itself as simple as it first seems. Critical factors need consideration, such as materials used, the pot’s size, and its overall heat distribution capabilities. Having the wrong steamer can result in poorly cooked, uneven, or even ruined clams.
The best clam steamer pot should provide fast and even heat distribution, have a built-in strainer to conveniently remove the clams once they are cooked, and be durable enough to withstand frequent use. Also, the material of the pot should be non-reactive to ensure the natural flavors of the clams are preserved.
When purchasing a clam steamer pot, it’s vital to pay close attention to what it’s made of. The best clam steamers are made of stainless steel, which is sturdy and resistant to corrosion and rust. This ensures that your pot will have a long lifespan through plenty of clam steam sessions. Always opt for a pot that has a tight-fitting lid and sturdy handles for ease of use.
In this article, we’ll guide you through choosing the best clam steamer pot. We have used, tested, and researched various steamers to identify the ones that provide the optimal cooking conditions for your favorite seafood. By the end of this article, you will be well-equipped with the knowledge to select the right steamer pot to make your clam cooking a breeze, while ensuring each clam is cooked to perfection.
Best Clam Steamer Pot
Opting for the proper Clam Steamer Pot is crucial for effortlessly perfecting your favorite shellfish cuisine. The ideal pot, in our experience, should have a robust, non-reactive build for maximum durability and food safety, effective heat distribution, and be user-friendly. With myriad options in the market, it might prove daunting to pick the perfect choice. Hence, in this article, we have curated a list of the top-performing Clam Steamer Pots after extensive tests and research, aiming to guide you through an informed decision process.
Kenmore Broadway Steamer Stock Pot with Insert and Lid, 16-Quart, Glacier Blue
If you’re looking for a versatile and efficient steamer, the Kenmore Broadway Steamer Stock Pot with Insert and Lid is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The removable insert allows you to steam a variety of foods, including rice, vegetables, and even fish.
- The steamer insert is dishwasher safe, making cleanup a breeze.
- The clear lid allows you to easily monitor your food as it cooks.
Cons
- The steamer insert may be a bit small for larger items, such as whole chickens.
- The pot may be a bit heavy for some users.
- The price point may be a bit high for some budget-conscious consumers.
We’ve used this steamer pot to cook a variety of dishes, from rice and vegetables to fish and dumplings. The removable insert is a great feature, as it allows you to steam different foods at the same time. The dishwasher-safe insert is also a huge plus, as it saves time and effort on cleanup.
One thing to keep in mind is that the steamer insert may be a bit small for larger items, so you may need to steam them in batches. Additionally, the pot may be a bit heavy for some users, so it may not be the best option if you have mobility issues.
Overall, we think the Kenmore Broadway Steamer Stock Pot with Insert and Lid is a great choice for anyone who wants a versatile and efficient steamer. While it may be a bit pricey for some, the convenience and time-saving features make it well worth the investment.
CONCORD Stainless Steel Stock Pot w/Steamer Basket
If you’re looking for a large stockpot that can handle both boiling and steaming, the CONCORD Stainless Steel Stock Pot with Steamer Basket is a great option.
Pros
- The 40-quart capacity is perfect for large families or for preparing big batches of food for freezing.
- The stockpot is made of high-quality stainless steel, which is durable and easy to clean.
- The steamer basket is a great bonus, allowing you to steam vegetables or seafood without having to use a separate pot.
Cons
- The lid does not have a built-in thermometer, which can be inconvenient for monitoring the temperature of your food.
- The pot is quite heavy, which can make it difficult to maneuver.
- The price point is a bit higher than some other stockpots on the market.
This stockpot is perfect for those who need a large capacity pot for their kitchen. The 40-quart capacity is great for making soups, stews, and other dishes that require a lot of liquid. The stainless steel material is also a plus, as it is durable and easy to clean.
The steamer basket is a great bonus, as it allows you to steam vegetables or seafood without having to use a separate pot. This can save you time and make your meal prep more efficient.
However, the lid not having a built-in thermometer can be a downside, as it can make it difficult to monitor the temperature of your food. Additionally, the pot is quite heavy, which can make it difficult to maneuver. Lastly, the price point is a bit higher than some other stockpots on the market.
Overall, if you’re in need of a large capacity stockpot that can handle both boiling and steaming, the CONCORD Stainless Steel Stock Pot with Steamer Basket is a great option to consider.
Creole Feast SBK0601 60 Qt. Seafood Boiling Kit with Strainer, Outdoor Aluminum Propane Gas Boiler Steamer with 10 PSI Regulator, 100,000 BTU Jet Burner
If you’re looking for a powerful and efficient seafood boiler, the Creole Feast SBK0601 is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The 100,000 BTU jet burner ensures quick and even heating, making it easy to cook large quantities of seafood.
- The 60-quart capacity of the pot is perfect for feeding a crowd, and the included strainer makes it easy to keep your seafood separate from the boiling liquid.
- The stainless steel construction is durable and easy to clean, making this boiler a great investment for anyone who loves to cook outdoors.
Cons
- The pot and lid are not welded together, which can make it difficult to pour out the boiling liquid without spilling.
- The lack of a lid support can make it challenging to lift the lid without burning your hands.
- Some users have reported issues with the regulator, which can make it difficult to control the heat of the boiler.
Overall, we highly recommend the Creole Feast SBK0601 to anyone who loves to cook seafood outdoors. With its powerful burner, large capacity pot, and durable stainless steel construction, this boiler is sure to become a trusted companion for years to come.
King Kooker KK36SR Ridged Stainless Steel Pot, 36-Quart
If you’re looking for a durable and spacious pot for your kitchen, the King Kooker KK36SR Ridged Stainless Steel Pot is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The 36-quart capacity of this pot is perfect for cooking large quantities of food, making it ideal for families or those who often cook for a crowd.
- The pot is made of 18/10 stainless steel, which is not only durable but also resistant to corrosion and stains. The tri-ply bottom ensures even heating, which is great for preventing hot spots.
- The pot comes with a steamer basket and a lid with a strainer insert, which makes it versatile and convenient to use.
Cons
- The pot is quite heavy, weighing in at 18 pounds, which may make it difficult to move around or store.
- The lid does not have a silicone gasket, which may cause some steam to escape when cooking.
- The pot is not induction compatible, which may limit its use for some cooktops.
Overall, we’ve found the King Kooker KK36SR Ridged Stainless Steel Pot to be a reliable and spacious option for those who need to cook large quantities of food. The durable construction and even heating make it a great choice for everyday use.
The pot’s 36-quart capacity is perfect for those who need to cook for a crowd, and the tri-ply bottom ensures even heating, which is great for preventing hot spots. Additionally, the pot comes with a steamer basket and a lid with a strainer insert, which makes it versatile and convenient to use.
However, the pot is quite heavy, which may make it difficult to move around or store. Additionally, the lid does not have a silicone gasket, which may cause some steam to escape when cooking. Finally, the pot is not induction compatible, which may limit its use for some cooktops.
In summary, if you’re looking for a durable and spacious pot for your kitchen, the King Kooker KK36SR Ridged Stainless Steel Pot is definitely worth considering.
Granite Ware 15.5 Qt Steamer, with Lid and Insert. Enameled steel perfect for seafood, soups or sauces.
If you’re looking for a versatile and durable steam cooker, the Granite Ware 15.5 Qt Steamer is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- Made from high-quality, heavy-gauge, enameled steel that is both durable and long-lasting.
- Versatile and can be used for steaming, straining, serving, and storing food.
- Large 15.5-quart capacity that is perfect for preparing meals for a family or large group.
Cons
- The steam release knob can be a bit difficult to operate, especially if you have smaller hands.
- The handle can get quite hot during cooking, so you’ll need to use a towel or oven mitt to avoid burns.
- The lid doesn’t have a vent, which can make it a bit difficult to check on the food while it’s cooking.
We’ve been using the Granite Ware 15.5 Qt Steamer for a few weeks now, and we’re really impressed with its performance. The enameled steel construction is both attractive and durable, and the large capacity makes it perfect for preparing big batches of soup, sauce, or seafood.
One of the things we really like about this steam cooker is its versatility. We’ve used it for everything from steaming vegetables to making seafood boils, and it has performed flawlessly every time. The enameled steel construction is also easy to clean, so you won’t spend hours scrubbing after dinner.
Of course, there are a few downsides to this steam cooker. The steam release knob can be a bit tricky to operate, especially if you have smaller hands. And the handle can get quite hot during cooking, so you’ll need to use a towel or oven mitt to avoid burns. Additionally, the lid doesn’t have a vent, which can make it a bit difficult to check on the food while it’s cooking.
Overall, we think the Granite Ware 15.5 Qt Steamer is a great choice for anyone who wants a durable, versatile, and easy-to-use steam cooker. It may have a few quirks, but its performance and construction make it well worth the investment.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best clam steamer pot, there are a few key factors to consider. We’ve used and tested a variety of options to help you make an informed decision.
Size and Capacity
One of the most important factors to consider is the size and capacity of the pot. You’ll want to choose a pot that is large enough to hold all of the clams you plan to steam, but not so large that it takes up too much space on your stove. A good rule of thumb is to choose a pot that can hold at least 2-3 pounds of clams.
Material
Another important factor to consider is the material of the pot. Clam steamer pots are typically made from either stainless steel or aluminum. Stainless steel is a durable and long-lasting option, while aluminum is lighter and easier to clean. Both materials are suitable for use on the stove, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference.
Steam Vent
A steam vent is an important feature to look for in a clam steamer pot. This vent allows steam to escape, preventing the pot from overflowing and making a mess on your stove. Look for a pot with a removable steam vent to ensure easy cleaning.
Lid
The lid of the pot is also an important factor to consider. A tight-fitting lid is necessary to ensure that the clams are steamed evenly and thoroughly. Look for a pot with a lid that fits securely and has a steam vent.
Price
Finally, consider the price of the pot. While it’s important to choose a high-quality pot that will last for years, you don’t want to overspend. Look for a pot that fits within your budget and offers the features you need.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best clam steamer pot for your needs. Whether you’re a seasoned clam steamer or just starting out, a high-quality pot will make the process easier and more enjoyable.
