Best Microwave Steamer
Opting for a **top-notch microwave steamer** is a smart move for a home kitchen, making meals both efficient and healthy. A great steamer should be **versatile**, durable, and easy to clean. It needs to offer superb heat distribution to cook food evenly. Choosing the wrong one might leave your meals half-cooked and your experience frustrating. **To help you find the perfect microwave steamer**, we’ve done thorough research and tested various models to find the best options available.
During this evaluation process, we looked at several factors like design, size, venting mechanism, ease of cleaning, and overall performance. Our aim was to understand how the microwave steamers handled different food types and cooking times, the level of convenience they offer during cleaning, and their overall build quality.
Our tests confirmed that the best microwave steamer should provide reliable steaming without drying out food or leaving it undercooked. The steamer must also be easy to use and clean. Few additional features, such as an adjustable vent and multi-layer steaming options, can intensify the performance and usability of a steamer.
In this article, we will walk you through our findings, describing the top-performing microwave steamers based on our tests. By the end of this write-up, you will have all the information you need to select the best microwave steamer that meets your specific needs and preferences, and will undoubtedly enhance your cooking experience.
GoodCook BPA-Free Plastic Microwave Vegetable and Fish Steamer, Green
If you’re looking for a simple and effective microwave steamer, the GoodCook BPA-Free Plastic Microwave Vegetable and Fish Steamer is a great option.
Pros
- The GoodCook steamer is made of BPA-free plastic, making it safe to use in the microwave.
- It has two layers, allowing you to steam two different foods at the same time.
- The vented lid allows excess steam to escape, preventing any messes.
Cons
- The GoodCook steamer is not dishwasher safe, so you’ll need to wash it by hand.
- The steamer’s capacity is relatively small, so it may not be suitable for larger portions.
- The steamer’s handle can get quite hot, so you’ll need to use oven mitts when removing it from the microwave.
The GoodCook BPA-Free Plastic Microwave Vegetable and Fish Steamer is perfect for those who want to steam their food quickly and easily. Its two-layer design allows you to steam two different foods at the same time, making it a great option for busy individuals. Additionally, the vented lid prevents any messes from excess steam.
However, the steamer is not dishwasher safe, so you’ll need to wash it by hand. Its capacity is also relatively small, so it may not be suitable for larger portions. Finally, the steamer’s handle can get quite hot, so you’ll need to use oven mitts when removing it from the microwave.
Overall, the GoodCook BPA-Free Plastic Microwave Vegetable and Fish Steamer is a great option for those who want a simple and effective microwave steamer.
Sistema Microwave Steamer for Cooking Food and Vegetables with Steam Release Vent, Dishwasher Safe, 13.6 Cup, Red
If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to steam your vegetables, the Sistema Microwave Steamer is a great option.
Pros
- The vented lid allows excess steam to escape, preventing any unwanted mess in your microwave.
- The bowl and lid are both dishwasher safe, making clean-up a breeze.
- The measurements on the side of the bowl make it easy to measure out your ingredients.
Cons
- The lid can be a bit difficult to snap on and off at times.
- The bowl is quite large, so it may not be suitable for smaller portions of food.
- The steam release vent can be a bit finicky and may not always work as expected.
We’ve used the Sistema Microwave Steamer to steam a variety of vegetables, and it has always come out perfectly cooked. The vented lid is a great feature, as it prevents any unwanted mess in the microwave. The bowl and lid are both dishwasher safe, which is a huge plus for us. The measurements on the side of the bowl are also a nice touch, as it makes it easy to measure out your ingredients.
One thing to keep in mind is that the lid can be a bit difficult to snap on and off at times. Additionally, the bowl is quite large, so it may not be suitable for smaller portions of food. Finally, the steam release vent can be a bit finicky and may not always work as expected.
Overall, if you’re looking for a quick and easy way to steam your vegetables, the Sistema Microwave Steamer is definitely worth considering.
Cuisinart CTG-00-MST Microwave Steamer
If you’re looking for a convenient and healthy way to cook rice, then the Cuisinart CTG-00-MST Microwave Steamer is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The steamer insert is dishwasher safe, making cleaning up a breeze.
- The locking lid and steam vents keep your hands safe from hot steam.
- The 4-cup capacity is perfect for small families or individuals who want to make just enough rice for one or two meals.
Cons
- The steamer can only make 4 cups of rice at a time, which may not be enough for larger families.
- The lid can be difficult to remove when the rice is still hot.
- The steamer insert may warp or crack over time with frequent use.
This microwave rice steamer is a great option for those who want to make healthy, flavorful rice without the added fat and calories of traditional cooking methods. The steamer insert is made of durable, BPA-free plastic and is microwave and dishwasher safe. The locking lid and steam vents ensure that your hands are safe from hot steam, and the non-slip base keeps the steamer stable on the counter.
The 4-cup capacity of the steamer is perfect for small families or individuals who want to make just enough rice for one or two meals. The steamer insert is stackable and comes with a removable plastic measure for added convenience.
However, the steamer can only make 4 cups of rice at a time, which may not be enough for larger families. Additionally, the lid can be difficult to remove when the rice is still hot, which can be frustrating. Finally, the steamer insert may warp or crack over time with frequent use, which could affect the quality of the rice.
Overall, the Cuisinart CTG-00-MST Microwave Steamer is a great option for those who want to make healthy, flavorful rice without the added fat and calories of traditional cooking methods. If you’re looking for a convenient and easy way to make rice, then this steamer is definitely worth considering.
Microwave Cookware Steamer- 3 Piece Microwave Cooker w Food Container, Removable Strainer and Locking Steam Vent Lid- BPA Free, Fridge and Freezer Safe | 1.3 Liters, 6x6x4 Inches
If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to steam your food in the microwave, the Microwave Cookware Steamer by LUOBAGE is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The steamer is made of high-quality, BPA-free materials that are safe for both the microwave and dishwasher.
- The locking steam vent lid and removable strainer make it easy to add food and liquid without worrying about spills or splatters.
- The food container is versatile and can be used for reheating, defrosting, and cooking.
Cons
- The steamer is only suitable for microwave use, so it may not be the best option if you’re looking for a multi-purpose cooking pot.
- The capacity of the food container is only 1.3 liters, which may not be enough for larger meals or families.
- The steamer may not be suitable for use with certain types of microwaves, so it’s important to check the compatibility before purchasing.
We’ve used the Microwave Cookware Steamer by LUOBAGE to steam a variety of foods, including vegetables, dumplings, and even rice. The removable strainer is particularly useful for keeping the food and liquid separate, and the locking steam vent lid helps to prevent spills and splatters.
The food container is also very versatile and can be used for a variety of purposes, including reheating leftovers and defrosting frozen food. The BPA-free materials used in the construction of the steamer also give us peace of mind when it comes to food safety.
Overall, if you’re looking for a quick and easy way to steam your food in the microwave, the Microwave Cookware Steamer by LUOBAGE is definitely worth considering.
Progressive International Mini Microwave Steamer, Gray
If you’re looking for a compact and efficient steamer, the Progressive International Mini Microwave Steamer is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The 1.2-liter capacity of the steamer is perfect for single servings, making it a great option for those who don’t have a lot of counter space or want to avoid making large batches of food.
- The steamer is BPA-free and phthalate-free, making it a safe and healthy option for cooking.
- The steamer is easy to use, with a simple design that allows you to add water and ingredients without any hassle.
Cons
- The steamer is not suitable for use in the oven or dishwasher, which may be a downside for some users.
- The steamer may not be able to accommodate larger ingredients or foods, which may limit its versatility.
- The steamer may not be as durable as some other models on the market, which may be a concern for those who plan to use it frequently.
We’ve used the Progressive International Mini Microwave Steamer and found it to be a great option for those who want a compact and efficient steamer. The 1.2-liter capacity is perfect for single servings, and the steamer is easy to use with its simple design. The fact that it’s BPA-free and phthalate-free is also a plus, as it ensures that the food you’re cooking is safe and healthy.
One thing to keep in mind is that the steamer is not suitable for use in the oven or dishwasher, which may be a downside for some users. Additionally, the steamer may not be able to accommodate larger ingredients or foods, which may limit its versatility. Finally, the steamer may not be as durable as some other models on the market, which may be a concern for those who plan to use it frequently.
Overall, we think that the Progressive International Mini Microwave Steamer is a great option for those who want a compact and efficient steamer for single servings. Its simple design and BPA-free and phthalate-free construction make it a safe and healthy option for cooking, and its 1.2-liter capacity is perfect for those who don’t have a lot of counter space or want to avoid making large batches of food.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best microwave steamer, there are several factors to consider. These factors include the size of the steamer, the material it is made of, the steam tray, and the overall design.
Size of the Steamer
The size of the steamer is an important factor to consider. It is essential to choose a steamer that is large enough to accommodate the foods you plan to steam. However, a larger steamer may take up more counter space. Therefore, it is crucial to consider the size of your kitchen and the amount of food you plan to steam.
Material
The material of the steamer is another important factor to consider. Microwave steamers are typically made of plastic, glass, or stainless steel. Plastic steamers are lightweight and affordable, but they may not be as durable as other materials. Glass steamers are easy to clean and do not absorb odors, but they can be fragile. Stainless steel steamers are durable and easy to clean, but they can be more expensive.
Steam Tray
The steam tray is a crucial component of the microwave steamer. It is responsible for holding the food and allowing the steam to circulate around it. A good steam tray should be large enough to hold your food and should be easy to clean.
Design
The overall design of the microwave steamer is also an important factor to consider. A well-designed steamer should be easy to use and should have a lid that fits securely. Additionally, the steamer should be easy to clean and should not retain odors.
In conclusion, when choosing the best microwave steamer, it is essential to consider the size, material, steam tray, and overall design. By considering these factors, you can ensure that you choose a steamer that is durable, easy to use, and meets your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What features should I look for in a microwave steamer for vegetables?
When choosing a microwave steamer for vegetables, look for features such as a large capacity steam basket, a removable lid for easy cleaning, and a non-stick interior for easy food release. Additionally, a steam clean function can make cleaning up a breeze.
How do I choose the best microwave steamer for dumplings?
When choosing a microwave steamer for dumplings, consider the size of the steamer and the material it is made of. A larger steamer will allow for more dumplings to be cooked at once, while a material such as stainless steel can provide even heating and prevent sticking.
What are the benefits of using a microwave steamer for rice?
Using a microwave steamer for rice can provide several benefits, including quick and easy cooking, even heating, and fluffy results. Additionally, a microwave steamer can save time and energy compared to traditional stovetop or rice cooker methods.
Which microwave steamers are recommended for cooking pasta?
When choosing a microwave steamer for cooking pasta, look for features such as a large capacity steam basket and a removable lid for easy cleaning. Additionally, a non-stick interior can prevent sticking and make cleaning up a breeze.
How do I select a microwave steamer for baking potatoes?
When selecting a microwave steamer for baking potatoes, consider the size of the steamer and the material it is made of. A larger steamer will allow for more potatoes to be cooked at once, while a material such as stainless steel can provide even heating and prevent sticking.
What should I consider when purchasing a microwave steamer for weight loss meals?
When purchasing a microwave steamer for weight loss meals, consider the size of the steamer and the material it is made of. Additionally, look for features such as a large capacity steam basket and a removable lid for easy cleaning. A non-stick interior can also prevent sticking and make cleaning up a breeze.
