These original appliances were designed for steaming for those who follow a strict diet due to illness, at first it was a simple pan with a special device with many perforations that was inserted inside. Today, one of the most effective appliances in the kitchen is the Tefal Vitamin Plus double boiler, this unit in three tiers can cook hot food immediately for a family of three.
If you are interested in products such as modern double boiler, you want to know all their technical parameters, control options, positive and negative sides, then we strongly recommend that you read this article carefully.
Content
Characteristics
Each model has its own individual parameters, but if we talk about Tefal double boiler in general, they are as follows:
- The body of the product is made of stainless steel or shockproof plastic, and the baskets for placing products are food-grade transparent plastic.
- Power consumption models from 650 to 950 watts.
- The control is mostly mechanical using the rotary switches, but there are products with electronic control using the keys.
- The volume of baskets for placing products varies from 2.3 to 3 liters, and the capacity for water is 1.1-1.5 liters. There can be two or three - it depends on the model of the double boiler.
- The built-in timer for 1 hour can with the sound notify the end of the process or turn off the device.
- Many models have a special retractable small tray for adding fluid without shutting off the double boiler.
Dimensions and mass of products are individual and depends on the number of pallets and their capacity.
Device and principle of operation
The lower part of the body of the product is considered the basis: there is a water tank, a heater and a control unit, electricity is supplied here using a power cord. Filling the water, putting the products in baskets, the user turns on the double boiler, and the heating system quickly brings the liquid to a boil, and steam is formed.
It rises, seeping through numerous perforations in baskets, which contributes to the rapid preparation of products. There is a sensor inside the liquid tank, which informs with an audible signal that the water level is below the permissible level, so that users top up the evaporated water on time.
Steam baskets are arranged vertically, through holes in them steam penetrates evenly throughout the entire internal volume, and food products are cooked evenly. Plastic is used only shockproof, it is able to withstand mechanical stress, for example, from a sudden fall during washing. Some models use special bowls for products such as beets, which colors everything in their bright red color.
When steaming, fat or oil is not required, penetrating the structure of the products, it brings them to a state of readiness without stirring or turning over. Everything happens as in convection ovens. Excess steam is vented out, and condensate formed on the walls flows down and collects in pallets between the baskets.
Equipment
It is quite simple and does not differ for all models, with the exception of food baskets:
- Product body with heating unit, water tank and control panel.
- Two or three work baskets made of transparent or matte plastic of different capacities, depending on the model of the product.
- Cap.
After use and washing, the product folds compactly for storage, while it occupies a very small space.
Additional functions
Each model has its own individual additions, but we will combine them all into one registry:
- the temperature, if desired, can be determined using a special probe;
- the device independently reminds of the need to clear the system of vaporization from scale;
- Fast steam function is not present in all models, it is with its help that you can cook foods as quickly as possible and save more vitamins;
- special recesses or tray for installing eggs;
- turning off the product when evaporating all the water - such a system is installed on more expensive devices.
Electronically controlled steamers have several cooking modes that are embedded in the microprocessor during assembly.
Advantages and disadvantages
Even in ancient times, doctors found that food that was steamed retains almost all the beneficial properties and vitamins laid down in the product by nature. The advantages of the double boiler include:
- During steam treatment, only no more than 1-3% is lost.
- Adherents of an active lifestyle and a healthy diet will not do without such a product, because during cooking there are no fatty components.
- Steamers significantly save consumer time, because the entire processing process occurs automatically.
- Steam penetrates all the ingredients, so cooking is much faster.
- Nothing burns in the product, because there is no open flame.
The only disadvantage is the fact that fish and meat do not have a fragrant crispy crust, and everything steamed has a fresh taste, but you can get used to everything, the main thing is that it is good for your health.
Rating of the best models
VC 1006 Ultra Compact
- unique design, excellent assembly
- fast cooking, convenient, capacious baskets
- convenient to use, wash, you only need a removable bottom
- not found
According to experts, this is the most compact double boiler of all on the market, the bowls are inserted one into the other vertically. A turbo ring is installed in the tank for heating water, which regulates the steam supply; it is equipped with a descaling system.
VC 1301 Minicompact
- convenient to use, cooks diet food
- folds compactly for storage
- clear control
- there is no timer to indicate the end of the process
All Tefal products are developed in France, and small appliances are manufactured in factories in China.
VC 3008 Steam’n’light
- original design, strict colors
- simple use, functionality
- high capacity food baskets, quiet operation
- baskets crack due to temperature differences
This model takes the first place in a rating of similar products in the nomination The best ratio quality quality cost.
VC 1401 Convenient
- aesthetic design, robust assembly
- quickly and efficiently cooks different products for a couple
- capacious baskets - includes 20 cutlets
- small bowl capacity for cereals
The high power model has two tiers, it is quite easy to use and does not take much time during maintenance. The baskets, trays and lid can be washed in the dishwasher.
findings
Technological progress provides us with excellent models of modern steam cookers that have several tiers: two or three, which means that you can cook several dishes at the same time. Some models are designed for baking muffins - a miracle for any housewife.
