Microwave steamers: how to choose and use?

Recently, a healthy diet has come into fashion, and steaming 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 describe in our article.

Some modern microwave ovens come with a double boiler. However, this product can also be purchased separately. There are several advantages to cooking in this way.

• Cooking takes much less time than using a conventional double boiler. In addition, if the product is included, the oven is equipped with a function when self-cleaning is performed using steam. This makes it easier to care for the device and not spend a lot of time cleaning its work surface.
• Also there are no problems with washing a double boiler. It can be put in order both independently and using a dishwasher. It also contributes to significant time savings.
• Microwaves having 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 the dishes used by a sick person, hot steam easily kills pathogenic bacteria and viruses.
• We can not ignore the fact that the combination of 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 can have differences both in appearance and in configuration. Which one to choose, the consumer decides individually. Options may 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 laying products.
• The bunk has a second basket for products and a tray in which condensate collects. This model is considered the most convenient, as it becomes possible to cook 2 different dishes at once.
• Non-standard steamers differ in additional elements.

A double boiler can be autonomous. In this case, she will need a separate place. If we are talking about an embedded model, it will already apply to electrical structures. When a double boiler does not come with a microwave oven, it can be purchased separately, focusing on the size of household appliances.

Typically, steamers are made from food grade plastic. This plastic product has all the necessary characteristics and is great 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 can have various shapes. The choice depends on the preferences of the buyer. Round, square, oval and rectangular models are presented on store shelves. Consumers are advised to purchase round double boiler, 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 enter the existing microwave. You also need to consider how much you need to cook food.

Manufacturers offer a fairly large color palette of models and a diverse design. You can purchase a double boiler of standard white or brighter colors.

With the operation of the structure is usually no problem. However, for starters, it is recommended that you still read the instructions for use. She looks as follows. After purchase, the product must be thoroughly washed. If provided by the instructions, then pour water into the lower tank. However, there are models in which this action is not required.

Prepared products are laid on the tiers. It is recommended to use the lower basket for cooking meat and fish. The temperature there will be higher, and these products require longer cooking. The upper basket is laid with side dishes and vegetables, which are steamed quickly enough. Everything is closed with a lid and placed in the microwave.

The lid most often has a steam pressure valve. It is necessary to control the speed of cooking and its quality. Excess liquid will drain into the pan, and the products themselves are steamed, preserving all the useful and nutritious elements. In order to cook vegetables evenly, users of the double boiler advise to pierce in several places before placing them in the basket. If the vegetables are cut, it is worth adding a small amount of water.

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

When the time is up and the dish is ready, the double boiler should be removed from the microwave oven. It is imperative to use gloves or a towel, otherwise there is a risk of burns. When removing the cover, safety precautions must be observed, since hot steam can also burn. After the products are laid out on a plate, the structure must be properly washed and dried.

Users may make some mistakes when cooking using a double boiler. The most common of them - insufficient or excessive time spent on cooking, insufficient amount of water in the structure or its complete absence, when provided, as well as the addition of seasonings and spices to the liquid tank. If you follow the basic recommendations, you can daily delight yourself and your family with delicious and healthy food.

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