Steamers and Idli Makers: A Guide to Choosing the Best One for Your Kitchen
In India, steamers and idli makers are an essential part of most households. They are used for making idlis, dhoklas, momos, and many other steamed delicacies. These kitchen appliances come in a range of designs and sizes, making it challenging to choose the best one for your kitchen. In this article, we will discuss steamers and idli makers, their types, and the factors to consider when choosing the best one for your kitchen.
What are Steamers and Idli Makers?
Steamers and idli makers are kitchen appliances that are used to steam food. They work by heating water in a container below the food, creating steam that cooks the food. Steamers and idli makers are designed to make the steaming process easy and efficient.
Types of Steamers and Idli Makers
There are several types of steamers and idli makers available in the market. Let’s take a look at some of the most popular types.
Electric Steamers and Idli Makers
Electric steamers and idli makers are the most popular type of steamers available in the market. These appliances come with an electric heating element that heats water to produce steam. The heating element is placed below the food container, and the steam rises through the food to cook it. Electric steamers and idli makers come with multiple containers that allow you to steam multiple dishes at once.
Microwave Steamers and Idli Makers
Microwave steamers and idli makers are another popular type of steamer. These appliances are designed to be used in a microwave. They come with containers that are microwave-safe and can be used to steam food. Microwave steamers and idli makers are compact and easy to store.
Stovetop Steamers and Idli Makers
Stovetop steamers and idli makers are designed to be used on a stovetop. These appliances come with a water container and a food container. The water container is placed on the stovetop and heated to produce steam. The food container is then placed above the water container, and the steam rises through the food to cook it.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Steamer or Idli Maker
When choosing a steamer or idli maker, there are several factors that you should consider. Here are some of the most important ones.
Size
The size of the steamer or idli maker is an essential factor to consider. If you have a large family or frequently entertain guests, you may want to choose a larger appliance with multiple containers. However, if you have limited kitchen space, a smaller appliance may be more suitable.
Material
The material of the steamer or idli maker is another factor to consider. Electric steamers and idli makers are usually made of plastic, while stovetop steamers and idli makers are made of stainless steel or aluminum. Microwave steamers and idli makers are made of microwave-safe plastic.
Number of Containers
The number of containers that the steamer or idli maker comes with is another factor to consider. If you want to steam multiple dishes at once, you may want to choose an appliance with multiple containers.
Ease of Use and Cleaning
The ease of use and cleaning of the steamer or idli maker is another important factor to consider. Electric steamers and idli makers are usually the easiest to use and clean, as they come with removable containers that can be easily washed. Stovetop steamers and idli makers may require more effort to clean.
Price
The price of the steamer or idli maker is another factor to consider when purchasing one. The price range for steamers and idli makers can vary widely depending on the brand, size, and features. Generally, idli makers are less expensive compared to steamers. A basic idli maker can cost around Rs. 500, while a steamer can cost anywhere from Rs. 1,000 to Rs. 5,000 or more, depending on the features and size.
Some high-end steamers come with advanced features like multiple compartments, programmable settings, and digital controls. These steamers are designed to make cooking different dishes easier and more convenient. However, these features come at a higher price point, and may not be necessary for everyone.
When considering the price, it’s important to think about the long-term benefits of owning a steamer or idli maker. A good quality steamer or idli maker can last for years, and can save you money in the long run by allowing you to cook healthy meals at home rather than relying on takeout or restaurant food.
Conclusion
Steamers and idli makers are essential kitchen appliances that can help you prepare healthy and delicious meals at home. Whether you’re looking to make steamed vegetables, seafood, or idlis, these appliances can make the cooking process easier and more convenient.
When choosing a steamer or idli maker, it’s important to consider factors like size, material, ease of use, and price. You may also want to consider additional features like programmable settings, digital controls, and multiple compartments, depending on your specific needs and preferences.
With so many options available on the market, it’s easy to find a steamer or idli maker that suits your budget and cooking needs. By investing in a good quality steamer or idli maker, you can enjoy healthy and delicious meals at home, and save money in the long run.