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Best food steamers for quick and healthy meals
Get steamy in the kitchen with our pick of the best food steamers for quick and healthy cooking.
By Rachel Erdos | Last updated Jul 11, 2024
There are many reasons why steaming your veggies, meat and fish is recommended when cooking up a storm in the kitchen. It helps retain vitamins and minerals, locks in flavour, and prevents vegetables from turning to mush. And by using a quality food steamer, you can quickly and easily prepare healthy meals for the whole family.
But what’s the best steamer to buy? Well, there are options for everyone, whether you want to kick your diet into touch, are fed up with overcooking the Sunday roast veg or want a handy tool for cooking lots of different food at the same time. If you have a large family, there are three-tier food steamers with hefty nine-litre capacities; high-tech versions, if you want a helping hand in the kitchen; bamboo options to pop onto pans for delicious dumplings; and gadgets designed to prep food for babies.
Mumsnetters really know their stuff when it comes to kitchen appliances. We've got roundups of the best toasters, the best kettles, the best rice cookers, the best blenders, the best microwaves, the best air fryers and the best soup makers, all featuring buying advice and recommendations from parents who like to save time, money and faff in the kitchen.
Best food steamers at a glance
Best overall: Tefal Ultracompact Steam Cooker VC204865 | Buy now, £42
Best budget: Russell Hobbs Three-Tier Steamer | Buy now, £35
Best stainless steel steamer: Lakeland Three-Piece Steamer | Buy now, £45
Best for baby food: Tommee Tippee Quick Cook | Buy now, £72
Best bamboo: Harcas Premium 2-Tier Bamboo Steamer | Buy now, £22
Best quality: Morphy Richards Compact Intellisteam Steamer | Buy now, £105
Best tiered: VonShef Food Steamer | Buy now, £33
Best hob steamer: Tower Essentials 3-Tier Steamer | Buy now, £28
1. Best overall food steamer: Tefal Ultracompact Steam Cooker VC204865
Price on writing: £54 | Buy now from Amazon
Key specs
Dimensions: 32 × 25 × 46cm | Capacity: 9 litres | Dishwasher safe: Yes
What we like
Thee steaming levels to cook meals in one go
60-minute timer with automatic shut-off function
Easy to store
What we don't like
Quite pricey
What Mumsnet users say
"We have a three-tier Tefal one which is great. We use it loads, mainly for veggies” - recommended by Mumsnet user, Hulababy
Our verdict
Tefal food steamers are highly rated by Mumsnetters so it's no surprise that this model scoops our best overall title. And this ultracompact electric Tefal food steamer receives impressive online reviews for its ease of use and compact design. The three separate steaming levels and rice bowl allow you to cook an entire meal in one go, making cooking healthy family meals a cinch.
Usefully, it has a 60-minute timer with an automatic shut-off function which means there’s no need to continually monitor what’s cooking, and you won’t pay for any extra energy. And because it’s clear and has a visible water level indicator, you can just top it up with water when needed so food stays nice and moist. It’s also easy to store thanks to the three stackable bowls that can be kept upside down on the base.
Read next: The best slow cookers to buy, as rated by Mumsnetters
2. Best budget food steamer: Russell Hobbs Three-Tier Food Steamer 21140
Price on writing: £35 | Buy now from Amazon
Key specs
Dimensions: 25 × 25 × 25cm | Capacity: 9 litres | Dishwasher safe: No
What we like
Value for money
Three tiers plus rice bowl and egg basket
Powerful 800 watt turbo steam design
What we don't like
Not dishwasher-safe
Our verdict
If you’re new to the food steaming party, this budget buy could be a great introduction at under £25. Despite it's small price tag, it still packs a punch with a powerful 800 watt turbo steam design that creates steam in 40 seconds.
It has three tiers which means you can cook food simultaneously without having to juggle pots and pans on your hob. The separate basket layers provide a generous nine-litre capacity which makes it ideal for entertaining or for larger families, and it has two water inlets, one on each side, making it super easy to refill with water. It also comes with a one-litre rice bowl and an egg basket.
Read next: The best kettles for brilliant brews
3. Best stainless steel food steamer: Lakeland Three-Piece Stainless Steel Steamer
Price on writing: £45 | Buy now from Lakeland
Key specs
Dimensions: 20 × 28cm | Capacity: Base 4 litres | Dishwasher safe: Yes
What we like
Suitable for all hobs
15-year manufacturer’s guarantee
Two extra-deep baskets
What we don't like
A couple of reviewers said the knob on the lid can get hot
Our verdict
This Lakeland three-piece stovetop steamer is a great option for traditionalists. It’s suitable for all hobs including induction hobs and comes with a 15-year manufacturer's guarantee.
It comes with two extra-deep baskets which can hold large portions so it’s great for entertaining or for family gatherings. It has a vented glass lid which means you can keep an eye on the food while it cooks and it can be popped in the dishwasher when you’re done, although many people prefer to give it a quick scrub in the sink.
Related: The best blenders to buy, as rated by Mumsnetters
4. Best baby food steamer: Tommee Tippee Quick Cook Baby Food Steamer and Blender
Price on writing: £72 | Buy now from Amazon
Key specs
Dimensions: 14 x 32.6 x 31.2 cm | Capacity: 200g jug | Dishwasher safe: No
What we like
Steams and blends
Can use fruit, veg, meat and fish
Automatic timer
What we don't like
Not all parts are dishwasher safe
What Mumsnet users say
"Tommee Tippee steamer and blender looks good" - recommended by Mumsnet user, GoldLeafTree
Our verdict
If you want to ensure your little ones are getting all possible nutrients but without the hassle of steaming and hand-blending separately, try this product that quickly steams and blends food including fruit, veg, meat and fish. There's a steamer basket and a jug for blending but if you want to try a range of textures as time passes, you can combine both.
We love the automatic timer that sets steam and blend times and it comes with a handy recipe book. It should make your life that little bit easier through the weaning stages. Check out our round-up of other best baby food makers you can buy.
5. Best bamboo food steamer: Harcas Premium Organic 2-Tier Bamboo Steamer
Price on writing: £22 | Buy now from Amazon
Key specs
Dimensions: Each tier is 25cm high | Capacity: Not specified | Dishwasher safe: No
What we like
Sturdy and durable
Tiers cook different foods at once
Value for money
What we don't like
Not dishwasher safe
May need to remove basket lids when storing
Our verdict
Bamboo steamers have a lot of kerb appeal in the kitchen. And they’re not just for Asian cuisine - you can steam pretty much anything in them. The Harcas 2-tier bamboo steamer fits most woks and pans and as with other steamers, it allows different foods to be steamed at once.
It’s made from premium bamboo and is reinforced with stainless steel bands making it extra sturdy and durable unlike some bamboo steamers which can feel a little flimsy. When you’re finished with it, simply give it a quick rinse and dry before storing away. Word of warning, you might need to remove the basket lids when storing.
Related: The best sous vide machines to buy for gourmet meals
6. Best quality food steamer: Morphy Richards Compact Intellisteam Food Steamer
Price on writing: £105 | Buy now from Amazon
Key specs
Dimensions: 29.5 × 36 × 24.5 cm | Capacity: 6 litres | Dishwasher safe: Yes
What we like
Large 6-litre capacity
Flavour scenter to infuse food
Smart pre-programmed timers
What we don't like
It’s 'compact' by name but is on the large side!
What Mumsnet users say
"I much prefer electric steamers. Saves hob space for something else. I have a Morphy Richards one with three layers and I'm happy with it.” - brand recommended by Mumsnet user, Sapphire387
Our verdict
It may be 'compact' by name but this steamer's six-litre capacity can prepare family dinners.
It comes with a removable divider wall, a collapsible steam basket, and a flavour scenter to infuse food with herbs or spices. It also comes with smart pre-programmed timers that are suited to different foods, taking the guesswork out of cooking. Your favourite settings can even be stored in the memory of the steamer for next time. Other handy features include a keep-warm function and a recipe booklet.
Related: The best toasters to buy, as recommended by families
7. Best tiered food steamer: VonShef Food Steamer with 3 Removable Tiers
Price on writing: £33 | Buy now from Amazon
Key specs
Dimensions: 32 × 25 × 43 cm | Capacity: 9 litres | Dishwasher safe: Yes
What we like
Largest on our list
Boil dry mechanism
Clear bowls to watch food cooking
What we don't like
Takes up more room than some others
What Mumsnet users say
“I have a VonChef one that is really good” - brand recommended by Mumsnet user, Blondie1984
Our verdict
The largest steamer on our list, the VonShef food steamer is quick to start cooking your food. Each of the three tiers has a three-litre steaming space and the 800W steaming element means it takes only 15 seconds to start cooking your ingredients.
As the bowls are clear you can keep an eye on your food but it also comes with a handy timer to remind you when it’s ready. If all else fails it has a boil-dry mechanism which turns the unit off if water runs out. The stackable tiers and accessories are dishwasher safe.
8. Best hob food steamer: Tower Essentials 3-Tier Steamer
Price on writing: £28 | Buy now from Amazon
Key specs
Dimensions: 19.5 × 27 × 29 cm | Capacity: Not specified | Dishwasher safe: Yes
What we like
Suitable for all hobs
Oven safe up to 200 degrees Celsius
Silicone-covered riveted handles for easy carrying
What we don't like
No fancy functions
Our verdict
If you prefer to steam your food on the hob, this no-nonsense steamer from Tower Essentials is great. It’s suitable for all hobs including induction and is dishwasher and oven safe up to 200 degrees Celsius.
It's simple, effective, and well-priced. Users are keen to praise the quality of the product and generously sized steaming baskets. It has built-in steam vents, meaning you can easily control the steam release to ensure ideal cooking results. The silicone-covered riveted handles make it easy and safe to use and carry from hob to worktop.
How to choose the best food steamer
There are several things to consider before buying the best food steamer. Here are some simple tips.
Size: How many people are you cooking for? If it’s only for you, or you and a partner, a three-tier 12-litre capacity food steamer won’t be necessary. If you have a large family or entertain regularly then a large capacity matters.
Most steamers have a capacity of around nine litres, which is big enough to cook a meal for four. If cooking for one to three people, it might be better to opt for a smaller steamer that will take up less space. A six-litre capacity is a good option for preparing tasty mains or sides, and for cooking for two.
Speed: If choosing an electric food steamer, it should cook food quickly and evenly and most run at 800 watts. Some claim to start steaming within 15 seconds but many start at about 60 seconds.
Versatility: Figure out how much food you can cook at the same time and check if it comes with separate rice and egg bowls. Added extras can be a bonus if you don't already own the additional extras.
What are the benefits of steaming food?
There's no oil involved in the cooking process so it's an easy way to make dishes lighter and healthier. Fewer vitamins, minerals, and nutrients are lost compared to dry-heat cooking, which often means a decreased need to add salt or oil as the food retains more flavour, texture, and colour.
What's the best type of food steamer to buy?
If you want to cook lots of different foods at the same time then a three-tiered food steamer is great for heating everything at once without cross flavouring. For things like cooking a whole sea bass or salmon, wide and deep compartments are best. Clearly most people would prefer a steamer that’s dishwasher safe and as they can often be quite bulky, collapsible tiers are a good option. Electric food steamers are hassle-free as they come with electric timers, so you pop the food in and get notified by a buzzer when it’s ready to eat.
Which size food steamer is best?
A three-tiered steamer is great if you want to cook different items at the same time. If you're just buying for you and your partner, a smaller two-bowl steamer would probably be best, like the Tefal VC140165. If you have a large family or entertain a lot, a three-tier food steamer will definitely be the right choice for you.
Can you make rice in a food steamer?
Yes, absolutely and a lot of food steamers come with a rice bowl. Simply place the rice in the steamer filled with cold water (the water should not be boiling when the rice is placed into the steamer). Turn on the heat to high, cover and cook for 10-20 minutes. Turn off the heat, and let the rice sit in the steamer with the lid on for at least five more minutes.
What is the best food steamer to buy?
The Tefal Ultracompact Steam Cooker VC204865 is our best buy for several reasons. As well as having all the basics sorted (generous capacity, dishwasher safe, good price) it's rated highly by Mumsnetters for its quality and durability.
How we chose our recommendations
Because we know that there’s nothing like a real recommendation, we first headed to the Mumsnet forums to find out what food steamers were being recommended.
We then looked at what food steamers had won accolades or been featured in ‘best buy’ lists in trusted publications, and what customer reviews said about them. Having collated all that information, we then narrowed our list down to the best food steamers to buy, looking at pros and cons for each model.
About the author
Rachel Erdos is an Editor at Mumsnet where she commissions, edits and writes content with a focus on product reviews, homeware roundups and family travel.
She’s written buyer’s guides for publications including Expert Reviews, Coach and Den of Geek as well as reviews and features for the Guardian, TripSavvy and Visit London.
As a mum of two, she’s always on the lookout for products that make life easier at home and loves putting gadgets and appliances to the test to highlight best buys for families.
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