Difference between a multicooker and a steamer

In the modern kitchen, multicookers and steamers have become an indispensable tool. These appliances not only assist in the process of cooking a meal, but they also revolutionize the order in which food is prepared. When deciding between purchasing a multicooker or a steamer, it is essential to consider the specific types of dishes that will be prepared. By analyzing the fundamental differences between these two devices, one can determine the ideal choice for their cooking needs.

Features of the multicooker

Multivarka is a versatile household appliance designed for autonomous cooking. It combines several kitchen appliances, allowing for boiling, frying, baking, and steaming. Advanced multicookers offer up to 20 automatic cooking modes and up to 30 programs in manual mode, enabling the preparation of complex dishes with minimal intervention.

If a recipe requires frying meat or potatoes before baking, simply select the frying mode and cook the ingredients accordingly. Afterwards, add the remaining components and proceed with the baking process.

The multicooker is simple to operate and does not require much intervention. It comes with a built-in timer, recipes, and a delayed start function, enabling it to automatically turn on, cook, and turn off. Additionally, if you happen to forget about the meal, the multicooker’s automatic heating function will prevent it from cooling down before you return.

Adjusting the timer on the multi-cooker

Pros and cons of the multicooker

1. With a multicooker, you can enjoy almost complete freedom from the cooking process. You no longer have to wait for the water to boil or monitor the process constantly. Instead, you simply put the ingredients into the bowl, select the desired mode, and let the multicooker do all the work for you.
2. One of the great features of a multicooker is its automatic heating function. It can keep your food warm until you’re ready to enjoy it, so you’ll always have a hot meal waiting for you when you step into the kitchen.
3. The delayed start feature is another convenient option offered by multicookers. You can prepare your ingredients in the evening and set the timer to start cooking in the morning, ensuring you wake up to a fresh and delicious breakfast.
4. In addition to its basic cooking functions, a multicooker often comes with built-in programs for making bread, yogurt, and steamed dishes. This eliminates the need for multiple appliances and saves precious space in your kitchen.
5. Convenience is the key advantage. Even individuals with limited cooking skills can effortlessly create elaborate dishes thanks to the multicooker.
6. The small size of this gadget permits you to bring it along to the countryside or while traveling, transforming it into your portable kitchen.

There are several drawbacks to multicookers:

1. One limitation is that they can only cook one dish at a time. If you need to boil soup, cook potatoes, and fry cutlets, the multicooker will take a long time to complete all those tasks.
2. If the multicooker doesn’t come with additional bowls, you will have to wash it before each new use.
3. Another disadvantage is the small capacity of the bowl. Despite being advertised as having a 5-liter capacity, the actual usable volume is around 4 liters, making it challenging to cook large meals, especially for big families.
4. Some models of multicookers have a useful automatic heating function that unfortunately cannot be turned off.
5. The coating of the bowl, whether made of Teflon or ceramic, requires delicate handling. Even a small scratch on the surface can cause food to stick and burn.
6. Not the best choice for hostesses seeking to enhance their culinary abilities.

Features of the steamer

The distinction between a steamer and a multicooker lies in their specific modes of operation. While a multicooker is capable of performing a wide range of tasks with ingredients, a steamer is limited to the steaming method of cooking. Although you can prepare various dishes in a steamer, they will only be cooked through steaming, as opposed to a multicooker’s versatile capabilities.

Using an electric steamer is an incredibly simple process. To begin, water is poured into the lower bowl, while the desired ingredients or raw foods are placed in the upper bowls (which can range from two or more). The cooking time required by the recipe is set on the control panel. Throughout the cooking process, it is possible to stir the food, add water, or even season with spices. One of the many advantages of using a steamer is the ability to simultaneously cook multiple dishes, all while ensuring that none of them burn.

Presently, there is a wide variety of steamers available on the market, each offering a vast range of functions, which include:

• Steam and temperature adjustments
• Delayed start cooking feature
• Constant heating mode

When cooked using a steamer, dishes retain the natural and beneficial properties of the ingredients, and the absence of oil in the cooking process makes the end result incredibly healthy and suitable for those on a diet.

Pros and cons of steam cookers

There are several advantages to using steam cookers:

1. Convenient and efficient cooking. With multiple baskets, you can cook various dishes simultaneously. Remember to place slow-cooking ingredients in the lower basket and fast-cooking ones in the upper.
2. Preservation of essential nutrients. Steam cooking minimizes the loss of beneficial microelements.
3. Quick defrosting capability.
4. Easy cooking process. Simply place the ingredients inside and let them cook with steam.
5. No risk of food burning. Regular rinsing of the basket is enough to remove any food residue.

The steamer has its drawbacks:

1. Steam-cooked dishes may appear bland. Cooking with steam often results in a lack of crust on the products, giving a raw food-like sensation.
2. Cooking with a steamer takes longer compared to using a conventional stove, particularly with meat dishes.

What is better to choose

First and foremost, it’s important to mention that the multicooker is an excellent choice for individuals who seek a diverse range of cuisine. The advanced programming options in modern multicookers provide the opportunity to prepare a new dish every day of the month. Furthermore, the amount of time and energy required is minimal. Presented below are a few top-rated models of multicookers.

Hitachi RZ-DMR18Y

The impressive design of this Japanese-made model guarantees top-notch performance.

• Featuring an 8-liter bowl;
• Equipped with 11 automatic modes;
• Powered by a 1000-watt motor;
• Includes the convenient "Multicook" function and delayed start option.

Hitachi RZ-DMR18Y Multicooker is a versatile kitchen appliance.

Vitesse VS 590

Vitesse offers French household appliances that are known for their impressive and stylish design.

• A 5-liter bowl
• 6 automatic programs
• 700 watts of power
• Delayed start and heating function

If you’re committed to maintaining a healthy diet and eating only nutritious foods, steamed dishes will become a staple in your menu. While both a multicooker and a steamer can cook using steam, a steamer offers a wider range of options for dietary dishes. Many families with small children choose to buy a steamer because it can also sterilize baby bottles. When selecting a steamer, consider the following models.

The Vitesse VS 590 Multicooker

SUPRA FSS-310

The Japanese manufacturer SUPRA offers a steam cooker that is not only inexpensive, but also of very high quality.

• With a total volume of 15 liters;
• Featuring 6 automatic modes;
• With a power of 800 watts;
• and equipped with a delayed start function and timer control for cooking time.

The Steamer SUPRA FSS-310 boasts a unique feature that sets it apart from other steamers – a light indication system that changes color depending on the selected program. This makes it easier to navigate and ensures optimal cooking results.

Introducing the Tefal Steam’n’light VC3008

One of the key differences between a steamer and a multicooker is the Tefal Steam’n’light VC3008’s innovative light indication system. With this feature, you can easily identify the different operating modes based on the color of the backlight.

• With a total volume of 10 liters, the Steamer SUPRA FSS-310 offers ample space for all your cooking needs.
• Equipped with 6 automatic modes, this steamer provides a wide range of cooking options to suit your preferences.
• With a power of 900 watts, the Steamer SUPRA FSS-310 ensures quick and efficient cooking.
• This steamer also includes a defrosting function and an auto shut-off feature that activates when there is no water, providing added convenience and safety.

Steamer Tefal Steam’n’light VC3008

When deciding between a steamer and a multicooker, there are several key factors to consider. If you have a large family with diverse tastes, the steamer may be the better choice as it allows you to cook multiple dishes simultaneously. On the other hand, if you have a small family but like to have a wide variety of dishes on your menu, the multicooker is a safe bet.

Many people choose a steamer for its practicality and the ability to prepare healthy meals. A multicooker, on the other hand, is ideal for food enthusiasts who lack the time to cook elaborate meals.