Last Updated on June 29, 2024
When it comes to modern kitchens, whether in high-end restaurants or bustling catering businesses, a versatile and efficient cooking appliance is a must. Enter the commercial steamer, a powerhouse tool that has revolutionized the way chefs approach food preparation. In this blog, we’ll explore what a commercial steamer is, its various types, the multitude of uses it offers, and why it has become an indispensable part of commercial kitchens.
Table of Contents
What Is a Commercial Steamer?
A commercial steamer is a kitchen appliance designed to cook food using steam. Unlike traditional cooking methods that rely on direct heat, steamers use water vapor to transfer heat to food. This method not only cooks food evenly but also helps retain its natural moisture, flavors, and nutrients. Commercial steamers come in various sizes and configurations to suit different culinary needs, from small countertop models to large, floor-standing units capable of handling significant quantities of food.
Types of Commercial Steamers
Understanding the different types of commercial steamers can help you choose the right one for your kitchen. Here are the most common types:
Pressure Steamers
Pressure steamers use pressurized steam to cook food quickly. The high pressure allows the steam to reach higher temperatures, significantly reducing cooking times. These steamers are ideal for kitchens where speed and efficiency are paramount, such as busy restaurants or cafeterias.
Convection Steamers
Convection steamers circulate steam around the food using fans or other mechanisms. This type of steamer ensures even cooking by maintaining a consistent temperature throughout the cooking chamber. Convection steamers are versatile and can handle a wide range of food items, making them popular in many commercial kitchens.
Combination Steamers (Combi Ovens)
Combination steamers, or combi ovens, offer the flexibility of using steam, convection heat, or a combination of both. This versatility allows chefs to experiment with different cooking techniques and achieve specific textures and flavors. Combi ovens are highly regarded in the culinary world for their ability to bake, roast, and steam with precision.
Steam Kettles
Steam kettles are large, kettle-like vessels that use steam to heat liquids and cook food. They are commonly used for preparing soups, stews, sauces, and other large-batch recipes. Steam kettles offer precise temperature control and are perfect for kitchens that require consistent and efficient bulk cooking.
Uses of a Commercial Steamer
The commercial steamer’s versatility makes it a valuable asset in any professional kitchen. Here are some of the primary uses of a commercial steamer:
Vegetable Preparation
One of the most common uses of a commercial steamer is cooking vegetables. Steaming vegetables preserve their vibrant colors, natural flavors, and essential nutrients better than boiling or frying. Whether it’s broccoli, carrots, asparagus, or green beans, steaming ensures the vegetables remain crisp-tender and delicious.
Seafood Cooking
Seafood benefits greatly from the gentle cooking method provided by steam. Delicate fish fillets, shrimp, mussels, and clams can be cooked to perfection without becoming dry or overcooked. The even heat distribution in a steamer ensures that seafood retains its natural juices and subtle flavors.
Rice and Grain Preparation
Commercial steamers are excellent for cooking rice and other grains. The consistent steam heat ensures that each grain is cooked evenly, resulting in fluffy and well-cooked rice. This is particularly useful in Asian cuisine, where rice is a staple component of many dishes.
Reheating Food
Reheating food without drying it out or overcooking can be challenging. A commercial steamer excels in this area by using steam to gently reheat food, maintaining its original texture and moisture. This is especially beneficial for catering businesses and restaurants that need to serve large quantities of pre-cooked dishes.
Dim Sum and Dumplings
In Asian cuisine, particularly Chinese cuisine, steamers are indispensable for preparing dim sum and dumplings. The steam cooking process ensures that the dough remains soft and the fillings are cooked thoroughly. Steamers are perfect for producing consistent and high-quality dim sum items in large quantities.
Poultry and Meat Dishes
While grilling and roasting are common methods for cooking poultry and meat, steaming offers a healthy alternative. Steaming poultry and meat helps retain their natural juices, resulting in moist and tender dishes. This method is particularly effective for preparing healthier versions of traditional dishes.
Dessert Preparation
Believe it or not, commercial steamers are also used in the preparation of various desserts. Steamed puddings, cakes, and buns are popular in many cultures. The steam provides a moist environment that is perfect for these types of desserts, ensuring they are soft and evenly cooked.
Sanitizing Utensils and Equipment
Commercial steamers can be used to sanitize kitchen utensils and equipment in addition to cooking. The high-temperature steam effectively kills bacteria and other pathogens, ensuring a clean and safe kitchen environment. This is a crucial function in maintaining food safety standards.
Benefits of Using a Commercial Steamer
Using a commercial steamer offers numerous benefits that can enhance the efficiency and quality of food preparation in a professional kitchen:
Nutrient Retention
Steaming is one of the healthiest cooking methods as it helps retain the nutrients in food. Vitamins and minerals that are often lost in boiling or frying are preserved, making steamed dishes more nutritious.
Flavor Preservation
The gentle cooking method of steaming preserves the natural flavors of food. Since there is no direct contact with water, the flavors remain concentrated and intact, resulting in more flavorful dishes.
Consistent Cooking
Commercial steamers ensure even and consistent cooking. The steam surrounds the food, providing uniform heat distribution and eliminating hot spots. This consistency is crucial in a commercial kitchen where precision and quality are paramount.
Energy Efficiency
Many commercial steamers are designed to be energy-efficient. They use less water and energy compared to traditional cooking methods, reducing operational costs in the long run.
Versatility
The versatility of commercial steamers makes them a valuable asset in any kitchen. From cooking vegetables and seafood to reheating food and preparing desserts, steamers can handle a wide range of culinary tasks.
Timesaving
The efficient cooking process of commercial steamers can significantly reduce cooking times. This is especially beneficial in busy kitchens where time is of the essence. Faster cooking times mean quicker service and increased customer satisfaction.
Healthier Cooking
Steaming eliminates the need for added fats and oils, making it a healthier cooking method. This is particularly important for health-conscious diners and establishments looking to offer healthier menu options.
Choosing the Right Commercial Steamer
Selecting the right commercial steamer for your kitchen involves considering several factors:
Capacity
Consider the volume of food you need to prepare. Choose a steamer with a capacity that matches your kitchen’s needs. Larger units are ideal for high-volume operations, while smaller ones are suitable for limited space or smaller batch cooking.
Type
Determine the type of steamer that best suits your cooking requirements. Pressure steamers are great for speed, while convection steamers offer even cooking. Combi ovens provide versatility, and steam kettles are perfect for bulk cooking.
Ease of Use
Look for steamers that are user-friendly and easy to operate. Digital controls, programmable settings, and intuitive interfaces can streamline kitchen operations and reduce the learning curve for staff.
Maintenance and Cleaning
Consider the ease of maintenance and cleaning. Steamers with removable parts, self-cleaning functions, and accessible components can save time and effort in maintaining hygiene and functionality.
Energy Efficiency
Opt for energy-efficient models that can help reduce operational costs. Look for steamers with energy-saving features and certifications that indicate their efficiency.
Brand and Reliability
Choose steamers from reputable brands known for their quality and reliability. Reading reviews and seeking recommendations from other industry professionals can help you make an informed decision.
Conclusion
A commercial steamer is an invaluable tool in any professional kitchen, offering a versatile, efficient, and healthy cooking method. From preserving nutrients and flavors to ensuring consistent and quick cooking, steamers have become a staple in modern culinary practices. Whether you’re running a busy restaurant, a catering service, or a large institutional kitchen, investing in a high-quality commercial steamer can significantly enhance your food preparation processes and elevate the quality of your dishes. With the right steamer, you can unlock a world of culinary possibilities and meet the diverse demands of your clientele with ease and excellence.