Meaghan Grantham

Written by Meaghan Grantham

Published: 06 Feb 2024

Camryn Rabideau

Reviewed by Camryn Rabideau

9-best-steamer-baskets
Source: Seriouseats.com

If you love to eat healthy food and want to make delicious steamed dishes at home, then you need to know about the 9 best steamer baskets. Steamer baskets are a kitchen tool used to cook food by steaming it. They are great for making vegetables, seafood, and even dumplings. In this article, we will explore the top 9 steamer baskets available in the market, and help you choose the right one for your cooking needs. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned cook, finding the right steamer basket can make a big difference in your culinary adventures.

Top Picks:

Overall Score: 7/10

The KitchenAid Universal Steamer Basket is designed to make steaming vegetables easy and accessible. Its durable stainless steel construction is backed up by an adjustable handle, soft-touch feet, and dishwasher safe design. While it has received some negative feedback regarding the handle and screws, the majority of reviews are positive, with users praising its quality design and effectiveness in the kitchen.

Key Features

  • Easy to use: Place over boiling water in pots, pressure cookers, or multi-cookers
  • Adjustable handle: Extends and locks in place for filling or transporting
  • Soft-Touch feet: Elevate basket above water and protect cookware
  • Durable: Stainless steel stands up to everyday use
  • Dishwasher safe: For easy cleanup, but handwashing is recommended

Specifications

  • Color: Stainless Steel
  • Dimension: 6.40Lx6.40Wx2.80H
  • Size: 10-Inch

Pros

  • Durable stainless steel construction
  • Adjustable handle for convenient use
  • Soft-touch feet protect cookware

Cons

  • Issues with screws and handle reported
  • Price may be considered a bit high

The KitchenAid Universal Steamer Basket offers a durable and convenient solution for steaming vegetables and more. While there have been some concerns about the handle and screws, the overall quality and effectiveness shine through in the majority of user reviews. For those seeking a reliable and long-lasting steamer basket, this option from KitchenAid is worth considering.

Overall Score: 8/10

Enjoy cooking a variety of foods with the HAPPi STUDIO Bamboo Steamer. This 10-inch steamer is designed with extra depth for cooking larger quantities. It also comes with a food-grade stainless steel steamer ring to prevent scorching. The natural bamboo color gives it an authentic look, making it an ideal gift for friends and family. The steamer is easy to clean and care for, but it's not dishwasher friendly. Use it to steam your favorite dishes like dim sum, bao buns, and vegetables for a healthier cooking option.

Key Features

  • Perfect bamboo basket combo with steamer ring
  • Extra depth and large steamer basket
  • Cook healthy authentic food with steaming
  • Easy to clean and care for
  • Ideal gift idea with 30-day guarantee

Specifications

  • Color: Natural Bamboo Color
  • Dimension: 10.00L x 10.00W x 7.40H

Pros

  • Premium Japanese bamboo steamer design
  • Large capacity for steaming more food
  • Retains food flavor and vitamins
  • Detailed instructions included for first-time users

Cons

  • Not dishwasher friendly
  • Requires thorough drying before storage

The HAPPi STUDIO Bamboo Steamer is a well-made and sturdy cooking tool ideal for anyone who enjoys healthy and authentic food. With its premium design and large capacity, it offers great value for anyone who wants to steam a variety of foods. While it requires some care in cleaning and drying, the overall experience and results are highly satisfying.

Overall Score: 8/10

The Stainless Steel Steamer Basket is an adjustable food-grade 100% stainless steel basket suitable for various pots. It is multi-functional, easy to use and clean, and comes with an extra-long hook for safety. It is dishwasher safe and oven safe. The size can be adjusted from 5.1 inches to 9.5 inches, making it suitable for 3, 5, 6 & 8 Quart (qt) instant pots, pressure cookers, pans, rice cookers, and air fryers. The polished surface prevents food from sticking, and it can be used for steaming, cooling, and food containment.

Key Features

  • Food grade 100% stainless steel
  • Adjustable sizes fit various pots
  • Multi-functional and easy to use & clean
  • Extra long hook for safety and convenience

Specifications

  • Dimension: 5.50Lx5.50Wx4.00H
  • Size: 5.1" to 9.5"

Pros

  • Food grade 100% stainless steel
  • Adjustable size fits various pots
  • Dishwasher and oven safe
  • Multi-functional, can be used for various foods

Cons

  • Some issues with mismatched handle received
  • Some sharp edges, potentially hazardous

The Stainless Steel Steamer Basket is a versatile and convenient accessory for cooking. Despite some minor issues with the handle, it offers great value for its quality and functionality. It is highly recommended for its durability and ease of use, making it a worthwhile addition to any kitchen.

Overall Score: 8/10

The Vegetable Steamer Basket is the perfect cooking tool for steaming vegetables, seafood, eggs, meats, and desserts. Its high-quality stainless steel design makes it durable, and its expandable size fits various pot/pan sizes. The foldable legs and removable center post provide convenience and easy cleaning. With an easy-to-use design and multiple functions, it's a must-have for any kitchen.

Key Features

  • Upgrade design & quality
  • Multiple functions
  • Expandable and collapsible
  • Foldable legs & removable center post
  • Easy to use & clean

Specifications

  • Size: ZG – Small

Pros

  • High quality stainless steel design
  • Easy to open and clean
  • Can be used as a strainer or fruit container
  • Conveniently fits various pot/pan sizes

Cons

  • Not heavy high-quality pan
  • Lid may not be sturdy enough

The Vegetable Steamer Basket is a versatile and functional kitchen tool that provides a healthy cooking option with its steaming capabilities. Despite some minor drawbacks, its durability, expandable design, and easy cleaning make it a valuable addition to any kitchen.

Overall Score: 8/10

The Chef Craft Classic Steamer Basket is a versatile and durable kitchen tool. Made of stainless steel, this expandable steamer basket is designed to fit a variety of pot sizes and is great for steaming vegetables, fish, and more. With three legs and silicone feet, it stays elevated in the pot and won't scratch the surface. It's also dishwasher safe for easy cleanup. Suitable for use with the Instapot, it's a convenient and handy addition to any kitchen.

Key Features

  • Constructed of stainless steel and rust resistant
  • Expands out to 9 1/2 inches, fits great in an Instapot
  • Great for vegetables, fish, and more
  • Three legs to keep steamer out of water, with silicone feet
  • Dishwasher safe for easy cleanup

Specifications

  • Color: Stainless Steel
  • Dimension: 2.75Lx5.50Wx5.50H
  • Size: 6 inch Diameter, 9.5 inch Expanded

Pros

  • Durable and rust-resistant stainless steel construction
  • Fits various pot sizes including Instapot
  • Elevated with silicone feet to prevent scratching pots
  • Dishwasher safe for easy cleanup

Cons

  • Legs may be too short for steaming large amounts of vegetables

The Chef Craft Classic Steamer Basket is a high-quality and versatile addition to any kitchen. Its durable and expandable design makes it perfect for steaming a variety of foods, and its compatibility with the Instapot adds to its convenience. While it may have limitations for steaming large amounts of vegetables, its overall performance and value make it a great choice for home cooks.

Overall Score: 8/10

The Steamer Basket Stainless Steel Vegetable Basket is a versatile and durable cooking accessory that helps you steam a variety of foods while retaining their nutrients. It is made of food-grade stainless steel, has adjustable sizes that fit various pots, and comes with silicone feet to prevent scratching. This multifunctional steamer can also be used as an egg rack, trivet, colander, or strainer. It is an ideal gift for friends and family and comes with a stainless steel safety tool. The product has received mostly positive reviews, but some customers have expressed concerns about rusting and the size of the basket.

Key Features

  • Made of food-grade stainless steel and silicone feet
  • Adjustable sizes to fit various pots
  • Can be used as an egg rack, trivet, colander, or strainer
  • Comes with a stainless steel safety tool

Specifications

  • Color: Silver
  • Size: 5.5" to 9"

Pros

  • Silicone feet prevent scratching
  • Versatile and multifunctional
  • Comes with a safety tool

Cons

  • May rust over time
  • Some users find the size too small

The Steamer Basket Stainless Steel Vegetable Basket is a valuable addition to any kitchen, providing a healthier cooking alternative and various functionalities. While it may have some issues with rusting, its overall quality and usefulness make it a worthwhile purchase.

Overall Score: 8/10

The HOMICHEF 3 PCS Whole Food Steamer Set is a high-quality, nickel-free stainless steel veggie steamer pot that offers a healthy and efficient way to steam whole foods. The set includes a 9.5" steamer insert, an 8" steam pot, and a 9.5" glass lid, making it perfect for a family's daily cooking needs. Featuring a 4.5" deep 3-ridge steamer insert, this set is not only versatile but also focused on health and sustainability, offering energy savings and a drainer basket used as tableware. The HOMICHEF steamer is made of non-toxic, nickel-free stainless steel and comes with devoted customer service, making it a reliable and long-term investment for your kitchen.

Key Features

  • Best way of cooking whole food
  • Nickel free stainless steel
  • Creates a large steaming capacity
  • Versatile drainer basket & tableware

Specifications

  • Color: Silver
  • Size: 9.5" Steam Insert, 8" Steam Pot, 9.5" Glass Lid

Pros

  • Healthier, nickel-free stainless steel
  • Large steaming capacity and versatile
  • Genuine HOMICHEF products with devoted customer service

Cons

  • Small, not useful pan that comes with it
  • Spots appearing on the steamer

The HOMICHEF 3 PCS Steamer Set offers a safe and efficient way of cooking whole foods, making it a convenient and long-term investment for any kitchen. With its energy-saving and versatile design, high-quality stainless steel, and strong customer service support, it provides a valuable addition to your cooking essentials.

Overall Score: 8/10

The Premium Vegetable Steamer Basket Best Bundle is a high-quality, 100% stainless steel steamer designed to fit perfectly in an Instant Pot and other cookware. Its removable handle allows for easy filling and transporting, and the basket is dishwasher-friendly. The steamer preserves nutrients when cooking vegetables, fish, meat, and more. Customers praise its functionality, ease of use, and suitability for various cooking tasks. However, some have reported issues with cleaning and delivery damage. Overall, it's an excellent choice for healthy cooking and meal preparation.

Key Features

  • Removable Handle
  • 100% food grade stainless steel
  • Fits various cookware
  • Dishwasher-friendly
  • Preserves nutrients when cooking

Specifications

  • Color: Silver
  • Dimension: 8.00Lx8.00Wx5.50H

Pros

  • Preserves nutrients in food
  • Fits various types of cookware
  • Dishwasher-friendly
  • Bonus accessories included

Cons

  • Cleaning can be tedious
  • Possible issues with delivery damage

The Premium Vegetable Steamer Basket Best Bundle is a versatile, well-designed product suitable for a variety of cooking tasks. Its high-quality stainless steel construction and ability to preserve nutrients make it an excellent choice for anyone seeking healthy meal preparation options. While some users have reported minor issues with cleaning and delivery, its overall functionality and convenience make it a valuable addition to any kitchen.

Overall Score: 9/10

The Steamer Basket Stainless Steel Vegetable Steamer is designed for healthier cooking options, suitable for steaming vegetables, meat, fish, eggs, and seafood. It is made of high-quality food-grade stainless steel, ensuring safety and durability. With a creative petal-shaped folding design, it can fit various pot and pan sizes, making it versatile and multifunctional. It's easy to clean, with polished metal surfaces that can be washed in a dishwasher. The steamer basket also comes with a 100% satisfaction guarantee, offering replacements or refunds if necessary.

Key Features

  • Healthier cooking choice
  • Safety & quality
  • Creative design
  • Easy to clean & multi-functionality
  • 100% satisfaction guarantee

Specifications

  • N/A

Pros

  • Enhances healthier cooking options
  • High-quality, durable stainless steel
  • Versatile and multifunctional
  • Easy to clean, dishwasher safe
  • Includes 100% satisfaction guarantee

Cons

  • May rust if not properly cared for
  • Telescopic handle could have better design

The Steamer Basket Stainless Steel Vegetable Steamer provides a convenient, safe, and versatile option for steaming a variety of foods. With its sturdy, collapsible design and high-quality materials, it’s a great addition to any kitchen. Just ensure to properly care for the steamer to avoid any rusting issues. Overall, it’s a reliable product that delivers excellent value for those looking to adopt a healthier cooking method.

Best Steamer Baskets Buyer's Guide*Types of Steamer Baskets:*

  • Bamboo Steamer Baskets: Made from natural bamboo, can be stacked for steaming multiple items at once, requires lining with parchment paper or cabbage leaves.
  • Collapsible Silicone Steamer Baskets: Can be collapsed for compact storage, heat-resistant and dishwasher safe, usually come with handles for easy lifting.
  • Stainless Steel Steamer Baskets: Durable and long-lasting, can be used in a variety of pots and pans, often come with extendable handles for different pot sizes.

*Factors to Consider:*

  • Size: Consider the size of your pots and the amount of food you want to steam. Look for a steamer basket that fits well in your pots and can accommodate your steaming needs.
  • Material: Decide if you prefer bamboo, silicone, or stainless steel. Consider the durability, ease of cleaning, and heat resistance of each material.
  • Ease of Use: Look for a steamer basket that is easy to handle, lift, and clean. Consider collapsible designs for easy storage.
  • Compatibility: Check if the steamer basket is compatible with your cookware and if it can be used in various cooking methods such as stovetop, microwave, and pressure cooker.
  • Price: Set a budget and choose a steamer basket that offers the best value for its price in terms of quality and features.

*Benefits of Steaming:*

  • Retains Nutrients: Steaming helps to retain the nutrients in the food compared to boiling or frying.
  • Preserves Texture: Steaming keeps the natural texture and flavor of the food without adding extra fats or oils.
  • Versatility: Steaming can be used for cooking a variety of foods including vegetables, seafood, dumplings, and more.
  • Healthier Cooking: Steaming requires little to no oil, making it a healthier cooking method for those watching their calorie intake.

*Care and Maintenance:*

  • Cleaning: Follow the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning the steamer basket. Some may be dishwasher safe, while others may require hand washing.
  • Storage: If you have a collapsible steamer basket, make sure to collapse it properly for compact storage. For bamboo or stainless steel baskets, find a suitable storage spot in your kitchen to keep them safe and accessible.
  • Maintenance: Check for any signs of wear and tear regularly and replace if necessary. For bamboo steamer baskets, make sure to keep them dry to prevent mold and mildew.

*Additional Features to Look For:*

  • Removable Dividers: Some steamer baskets come with removable dividers to separate different types of food being steamed at the same time.
  • Silicone Feet: Look for steamer baskets with silicone feet to prevent scratching of pots and pans.
  • Lids: Some steamer baskets come with matching lids to trap steam and cook food quickly and evenly.

*Conclusion:*Choosing the best steamer basket involves considering the type, size, material, ease of use, compatibility, price, and benefits of steaming. Taking care of your steamer basket and looking for additional features can enhance your steaming experience and ensure long-lasting use. Whether steaming vegetables, dumplings, or seafood, a good steamer basket can make cooking healthier and more enjoyable.

Frequently Asked Questions about 9 Best Steamer Baskets

What are the different types of steamer baskets available?

There are bamboo steamer baskets, stainless steel steamer baskets, silicone steamer baskets, and collapsible steamer baskets.

How do I use a steamer basket?

Simply place the steamer basket in a pot with a few inches of water, add your food to the basket, cover the pot, and let the steam cook your food.

Can I use a steamer basket in the microwave?

Yes, there are microwave-safe steamer baskets available that can be used to steam vegetables, fish, and more in the microwave.

Are steamer baskets easy to clean?

Yes, most steamer baskets are dishwasher safe or can be easily hand washed with soap and water.

Can I use a steamer basket for cooking other types of food besides vegetables?

Absolutely! Steamer baskets can be used to cook seafood, dumplings, tamales, and even eggs. The possibilities are endless!

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