Exploring the best food steamers in the UK, we’ve honed in on options that cater to diverse cooking styles and kitchen setups. As a seasoned culinary expert, I’ve spent years understanding and testing various steaming methods, focusing on efficiency, health benefits, and flavor preservation. This article distills my expertise and rigorous testing to guide you through the top choices for food steamers, ensuring your meals are deliciously steamed to perfection.
Our Picks
We’ve compiled a list of the best food steamers available in the UK to make your cooking experience more efficient and enjoyable. Discover our top picks below.
Russell Hobbs 21140 3-Tier Food Steamer
This Russell Hobbs 3-Tier Food Steamer is an excellent choice for those looking to cook healthy meals without the fuss.
Pros
- Efficient and powerful 800W turbo steam design
- Generous 9-litre capacity suitable for families and entertaining guests
- Easy-to-refill dual water inlets
Cons
- White bottom section prone to discolouration
- Not suitable for small kitchens due to its size
- No automatic shut-off feature
This Russell Hobbs 21140 3-Tier Food Steamer has made our lives so much easier when it comes to preparing healthy meals. We love how it can steam rice, vegetables, meat, and fish simultaneously using its powerful 800W turbo steam design. This not only saves time but also energy and money.
One of the best features of this steamer is its generous 9-litre capacity, which is perfect for larger families or when entertaining guests. The three separate basket layers allow us to cook multiple food items at once without the need for additional equipment. The easy-to-refill dual water inlets also mean that we can always keep the steamer filled, regardless of where it’s placed on our kitchen worktop.
However, we have noticed that the white bottom section that catches the water is prone to discolouration, which can be a bit unsightly. Additionally, due to its size, this steamer may not be suitable for smaller kitchens as it can take up quite a bit of space. It’s also worth noting that this model does not have an automatic shut-off feature, so you’ll need to keep an eye on it while it’s in use.
All in all, we highly recommend the Russell Hobbs 21140 3-Tier Food Steamer for anyone looking to invest in a versatile and efficient steamer, perfect for a variety of healthy meals. Its few drawbacks are easily outweighed by its powerful performance and convenience.
Salter 3-Tier Food Steamer
We recommend the Salter 3-Tier Food Steamer for its efficient cooking, ease of use, and compact storage capabilities.
Pros
- Fast and efficient cooking
- Easy to clean and dishwasher safe accessories
- Compact storage and stylish stainless steel design
Cons
- Food may be wet after steaming
- Limited cooking capacity
- No instructions for steam times
The Salter 3-Tier Food Steamer quickly became our go-to kitchen appliance when we wanted to prepare healthy meals with minimal hassle. Steaming vegetables, meat, and rice was a breeze, and the 60-minute timer helped us to cook everything just right.
We particularly loved how easy it was to clean up afterwards – all the tiers, lid, and rice bowl could be placed into the dishwasher, saving us precious time and effort. Moreover, the stainless steel body not only looked sophisticated on our countertop but also made the appliance simple to store away when not in use.
However, when using the steamer, we noticed that our food would sometimes come out wetter than we’d prefer. While it wasn’t a major issue, it’s worth keeping in mind if you prefer a drier result. Also, the cooking capacity in the steamer can be limited if you’re cooking for a larger group.
The only other minor drawback we encountered was the lack of instructions regarding steam times for different foods. We found ourselves doing a bit of trial and error initially, but it didn’t take long to get the hang of it.
Overall, we think the Salter 3-Tier Food Steamer is a great investment for those looking to enhance their healthy meal options and streamline their cooking routine. Just be prepared for a bit of experimentation when you first start using it.
Morphy Richards 48755 3 Tier Food Steamer
We recommend the Morphy Richards 3 Tier Food Steamer for its versatility, large capacity, and efficient steam production.
Pros
- Large 9 litre capacity for multiple dishes
- Instant steam production for immediate cooking
- 60-minute timer with bell for precise cooking
Cons
- Dial may be difficult to use for those with arthritis
- Not as compact for storage as other steamers
- No auto shutoff feature
We recently used the Morphy Richards 3 Tier Food Steamer, and the instant steam production impressed us, allowing us to start cooking immediately. The large 9 litre capacity made it easy to steam various dishes simultaneously, making meal prep quicker and more efficient.
Despite the larger size, cleaning the steamer was quite easy. However, it does take up more storage space when not in use, so make sure you have enough room in your kitchen. The timer comes with a bell, making it easy to know when your food is ready, but the dial may be difficult to use for those with arthritis.
Overall, we believe the Morphy Richards 48755 3 Tier Food Steamer is an excellent purchase for those looking to incorporate healthy, steamed meals into their routine. The lack of an auto shutoff feature is a minor drawback, but it’s a solid choice for those who value efficient cooking and large capacity.
Crystals 3PC Stainless Steel Steamer Cooker Pot Set
A versatile and high-quality steamer set that’s perfect for cooking a variety of dishes for the entire family.
Pros
- Suitable for gas, electric, and solid hotplates
- 3-tier 22cm capsule base steamer set
- 0.5mm body thickness with 1.5mm aluminium capsulated bottom
Cons
- Not oven safe
- 1.8 litres capacity may not be enough for larger gatherings
- Glass lids can be less durable than stainless steel ones
We recently had the pleasure of using the Crystals 3PC Stainless Steel Steamer Cooker Pot Set, and we must say that it impressed us with its versatility and quality. This steamer set is perfect for whipping up delicious and healthy meals for our family, as it’s suitable for gas, electric, and solid hotplates, ensuring compatibility with various cooking platforms.
What we liked most about this steamer set is its three-tier 22cm capsule base, which allows for efficient heat distribution and ensures that our food is cooked evenly. Additionally, the 0.5mm body thickness and the 1.5mm aluminium capsulated bottom provide durability and make this steamer set an excellent investment for the long run.
However, there are a few drawbacks to the Crystals 3PC Stainless Steel Steamer Cooker Pot Set. Firstly, it’s not oven safe, so we could not use it for some dishes that require oven cooking. Secondly, although the 1.8 litres capacity is perfect for everyday family meals, it may not be sufficient when hosting larger gatherings. Finally, the glass lids, while visually appealing, may not be as durable as stainless steel ones, so we had to handle them with extra care.
Overall, we found the Crystals 3PC Stainless Steel Steamer Cooker Pot Set to be a worthwhile addition to our kitchen. Its versatility and quality make it ideal for daily use, despite a few minor drawbacks. For those in search of a reliable and practical food steamer in the UK, we recommend giving this set a try.
Tower T80836 Essentials Induction Steamer
The Tower T80836 Essentials Induction Steamer is a great addition to any kitchen for healthy and efficient cooking.
Pros
- High quality stainless steel with polished mirror finish
- Silicone handles for comfortable grip
- Versatile and suitable for all hob types
Cons
- Not the best option for heat resistant handles
- A bit lighter and thinner than desired
- May be too small for larger families
We recently used the Tower T80836 Essentials Induction Steamer and found it to be quite impressive. The high quality stainless steel construction gives it a sleek and polished look, making it a visually appealing addition to our kitchen. Moreover, the silicone handles ensure a comfortable grip while moving the steamer around.
What we love about this steamer is its versatility; it is suitable for all hob types, including induction, making it an excellent choice for various cooking styles. The tempered glass lid features a steam vent, providing added strength and safety during use. Furthermore, this steamer is dishwasher and oven safe, rated for temperatures up to 200 degrees Celsius.
However, there are a few drawbacks worth mentioning. Although the silicone handles are great for grip, they may not provide the best heat resistance. If you specifically require heat resistant handles, you might prefer an alternative like the Murphy Richard’s steamer. Additionally, the overall construction is a bit lighter and thinner than we initially expected, which might affect durability in the long run.
Finally, the capacity of 2.1 litres might be adequate for smaller families or couples, but larger families may find it a bit limited when preparing meals.
In conclusion, the Tower T80836 Essentials Induction Steamer delivers a versatile and stylish cooking option for most households. Despite a few minor drawbacks, we still found the steamer to be a reliable and valuable addition to our kitchen.
VonShef Food Steamer 3 Tier
This steamer is an excellent addition to any kitchen for healthy and efficient cooking.
Pros
- Quick heating 800W power
- Easy water refill system
- Boil-dry prevention mechanism
Cons
- Rice cooking can be challenging
- No instruction booklet included
- Requires regular rinsing of the water tank
We recently used the VonShef Food Steamer, and the overall experience was pleasant. It has a powerful 800W steamer that heats quickly, making it ideal for steaming fish, meat, and vegetables to perfection. The three tiers offer ample space and flexibility in cooking different types of food simultaneously.
One convenient feature we found is the easy water refill system. The side inlets and external level indicator make it simple to top up the water supply without wasting time. Additionally, the 0-60 minute timer allows for customising the cooking time to suit specific dishes and preferences. The added safety feature of the boil-dry prevention mechanism adds peace of mind, shutting down the device when water runs out.
Although the steamer is generally easy to use and maintain, we did face some minor challenges. Cooking rice using the rice bowl accessory was a bit tricky as there is no clear guidance on timing or water quantity. The outcome was somewhat disappointing, with the rice coming out harder than anticipated.
Moreover, the product packaging was somewhat inadequate, and there was no instruction booklet included. To ensure the proper functioning and durability of the steamer, we had to rinse out the water tank after each use, which can be bothersome for some users.
Overall, the VonShef Food Steamer 3 Tier is a great appliance for healthy cooking at a reasonable price. However, customers should be mindful of some minor drawbacks, such as rice cooking difficulties and the need for regular cleaning.
Dihl 800W 9 Litre Electric Food Steamer
We highly recommend the Dihl 800W 9 Litre Electric Food Steamer for those seeking a versatile and easy-to-use steamer to prepare healthy meals.
Pros
- 3 individual compartments for simultaneous cooking
- Large 9-litre capacity
- Timer range up to 60 minutes
Cons
- Requires hand washing
- 1000mm power lead may be too short for some kitchens
- Brand may be unfamiliar to some buyers
We recently used the Dihl 800W Electric Food Steamer and we found it to be an excellent addition to our kitchen. The three individual compartments allowed us to cook various items at the same time, making meal prep a breeze. The generous 9-litre capacity provided ample space for larger meals and the rice tray added an extra layer of convenience.
The timer range of up to 60 minutes allows for precise cooking times, ensuring that foods are cooked to perfection every time. The 800W of power heats up quickly, cutting down on cooking time and making the steaming process efficient and effective.
On the downside, the product care instructions specify that this steamer requires hand washing. For those who prefer using a dishwasher, this might be a minor inconvenience. The power lead is 1000mm long, which may be too short for some kitchen setups, possibly requiring an extension cord.
Although the Dihl brand may not be familiar to everyone, our experience with their 800W 9 Litre Electric Food Steamer has been thoroughly positive. With easy-to-use features, versatility and efficient cooking, this steamer is a valuable addition to any kitchen and we’d recommend it to those looking to prepare healthier meals with ease.
Tefal VC145140 Convenient Series Steamer
We recommend this steamer for its durability, ease of use and ability to cook tasty, healthy meals.
Pros
- Long-lasting stainless steel bowls
- 60-minute timer with auto switch off
- Rice and pulses accessory included
Cons
- Slightly higher price
- Only two steaming bowls
- No auto shutoff
As avid users of the Tefal VC145140 Convenient Series Steamer, we appreciate its efficiency in steam cooking a variety of meals. Made from durable stainless steel, this steamer is built to last and withstand regular use. Unlike its plastic predecessors, it is much studier and easier to clean. Plus, the included rice and pulses accessory is a great addition for cooking a wider range of dishes.
We found the 60-minute timer with automatic switch off feature to be very useful as it gives us peace of mind when cooking. There is no need to constantly check on the progress of our meals, and we’ve enjoyed perfectly cooked steamed vegetables every time. The visible water level indicator is a handy feature that helps us monitor the water level during cooking, preventing any mishaps.
One downside to the Tefal VC145140 steamer is the lack of auto shutoff, which would have added an extra layer of safety to the appliance. It also comes with only two steaming bowls, making it less suited for larger families or those who steam several dishes at once. However, the larger capacity of each bowl compensates for this to some extent.
In conclusion, the Tefal VC145140 Convenient Series Steamer is an excellent option for those looking to invest in a durable, easy-to-use food steamer. It may be slightly more expensive compared to other models, but its efficiency and sturdiness make it well worth the investment. With the added bonus of the rice and pulses accessory, this steamer offers a versatile cooking experience.
PureMate NaturoPure Food Steamer
The PureMate NaturoPure Food Steamer is a great addition to any kitchen for those looking to lead a healthier lifestyle with ease and convenience.
Pros
- Intuitive digital display and timer
- Large 11.5L capacity for family meals
- Versatile and convenient design
Cons
- Takes up some counter space
- Bulky for smaller kitchens
- May require multiple refills for long cooking times
We recently used the PureMate NaturoPure Food Steamer and found it to be an excellent appliance for cooking healthy meals for our family. With its 11.5L capacity, we were able to steam larger quantities of food without any issues. The digital display, 6 preset programs, and 99-minute timer allowed us to cook various types of food perfectly.
The steamer is made of durable stainless steel, which feels high-quality and ensures it will last for a long time. The collapsible containers make it convenient for storage in smaller spaces, and the auto shut-off safety feature brings peace of mind when using the appliance. Cleaning the steamer is a breeze, as the detachable separators and dishwasher-safe parts make the process simple and safe.
However, the steamer may not fit well in all kitchens, taking up a significant amount of counter space. Additionally, the 1L water capacity for up to an hour of steaming means that longer cooking times may require multiple refills. Despite these minor drawbacks, we found that the PureMate NaturoPure Food Steamer provided a versatile and healthy way to prepare our meals.
In summary, we recommend the PureMate NaturoPure Food Steamer to anyone looking to add a simple and efficient steaming appliance to their kitchen, even for those with limited space. Its intuitive design, large capacity, and ease of use and cleaning make it a worthwhile investment.
Russell Hobbs Compact Food Steamer
If you’re looking to cook healthy meals with ease, this Russell Hobbs Compact Food Steamer is a must-have addition to your kitchen.
Pros
- Compact design with stackable baskets for easy storage
- 7 L capacity accommodates a variety of food items
- 60-minute timer ensures perfectly cooked dishes
Cons
- Cleaning can be somewhat difficult due to food getting stuck in the holes
- The material could be stronger for improved durability
- Pre-boiling water is required for optimal steaming results
We’ve had the opportunity to use the Russell Hobbs Compact Food Steamer, and we can confidently say it has made our cooking experience more enjoyable. The brushed stainless steel and black finish give the appliance a sleek and modern look, which enhances the overall aesthetic of our kitchen.
One of the best features of this steamer is its compact design. The baskets are stackable, which allows for easy storage when not in use. Moreover, the 7 L capacity is spacious enough to hold a variety of food items, such as vegetables, fish, and even rice, thanks to the included rice bowl.
The 60-minute timer on the Russell Hobbs steamer enables us to have perfectly cooked meals every time. This feature eliminates the need for constant monitoring and ensures that our dishes are cooked to perfection.
However, despite the many great features of this steamer, there are a few drawbacks to consider. When it comes to cleaning, we’ve found that some food particles tend to get caught in the holes, making it a bit challenging to clean at times. Additionally, the material could be stronger to improve the overall durability of the appliance. Lastly, pre-boiling the water is required to achieve optimal steaming results, which may be inconvenient for some users.
All things considered, the Russell Hobbs Compact Food Steamer is a versatile kitchen appliance that focuses on healthy and convenient cooking. Although there are a few drawbacks, the advantages outweigh the cons, and we’d recommend this steamer to anyone looking for an easy way to prepare healthy meals at home.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best food steamer in the UK, there are several factors to consider. In this buying guide, we will discuss some key features you should consider to make an informed decision.
Capacity
One of the first things to consider is the steamer’s capacity. Think about the size of your household and how much food you typically cook at once. Food steamers come in various sizes, from compact models that are suitable for single servings to multi-tiered designs that can cook several dishes simultaneously. Consider your current and future cooking needs to ensure you choose a food steamer with a suitable capacity.
Material
The material of your food steamer is another crucial factor to consider. Many food steamers are made of stainless steel, which offers durability, easy cleaning, and even heat distribution. Others may feature a plastic construction, making them lightweight and affordable. However, ensure the plastic used is BPA-free and heat-resistant to ensure the safety and longevity of the steamer.
Controls and Modes
The ease of use and ability to control your cooking are essential when selecting a food steamer. Some models come with simple mechanical controls, such as dials or buttons, while others may offer digital interfaces with preset cooking modes for different foods. Choose a food steamer with an adequate range of settings and controls to suit your cooking preferences and level of expertise.
Timer and Auto Shut-Off
A timer is a useful feature, as allowing food to steam for too long can result in overcooking or diminished nutrient content. Choose a food steamer that offers a built-in timer, preferably with an auto shut-off function. This way, when the steaming process is complete, the unit will turn off automatically, ensuring the food is cooked to perfection and potentially preventing accidents caused by overheating.
Accessories and Extras
Different food steamers may come with various accessories, such as trays, inserts, or baskets. These additional components can offer more versatility in terms of food preparation options. For instance, a steamer with a rice bowl would also allow you to steam grains and small legumes, in addition to vegetables. Consider the types of dishes you frequently make at home and opt for a steamer that includes suitable accessories to make meal prep more convenient.
By taking the time to explore and compare the features mentioned above, you stand a better chance of finding the best food steamer for your kitchen needs. Remember to also take into consideration factors such as your budget and available counter space to ensure compatibility with your home.
