Norpro Stainless-Steel Expandable Vegetable Steamer

Amazon.com Review
It's less what it includes than what it lacks that makes this Norpro vegetable steamer a cut above your average steamer insert. Without a bothersome center post, there is plenty of unobstructed room to steam entire heads of broccoli or cauliflower or full-length cobs of corn--and finished vegetables are easier to remove with a spoon or a spatula as denser veggies keep steaming. No need to slice carrots or pole beans beforehand--just plop them whole into the basket, which expands from 7 to 10 inches, depending on the size of the pot you set it in. The three-pronged base provides stability equal to models with center posts, but instead of one central handle there are two ring-style side handles. This is another improvement, as you don't need to reach into the middle of the steaming-hot food to remove the basket, and using the side handles supports the basket's shape rather than allowing its "petals" to pop open flat upon lifting. The heavy-duty waffled se (more...)

Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Stainless Steel 4-Piece 12-Quart Pasta/Steamer Set

Amazon.com Review
Simmer that crowd-size batch of three-alarm chili or boil up enough spaghetti to feed the whole block in this 12-quart Cuisinart Chef's Classic stockpot. Made of professional quality 18/10 stainless steel that won't react with acidic foods, the pot features solid cast stainless-steel handles, a tight-fitting lid, drip-free rim, and a mirror finish that retains its brightness through dishwasher, freezer, broiler, and oven use up to 550 degrees Fahrenheit. For even, conductive heating, an aluminum disk is encapsulated between two layers of stainless steel in the base. The stockpot measures 9 inches high and 11 inches in diameter; 14-1/2 inches including handles. What makes this four-piece set special is its versatility. Included is a deep pasta insert, so you can lift out and drain your cooked pasta all in one fell swoop, without needing a colander; and a steamer basket that sits in the top portion of the pot and allows you to steam broccoli, shrimp, pot (more...)

September 22, 2009 | Filed Under Steamer Set | Leave a Comment

Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Stainless Steel 4-Piece 12-Quart Pasta/Steamer Set

September 20, 2009 | Filed Under Steamer Set | Leave a Comment

Joyce Chen 10-Inch Bamboo Steamer Set

Amazon.com
Designed by famous restaurateur Joyce Chen, this three-piece ensemble uses natural bamboo to create a steamer with two separate cooking compartments. The strength of its material enables the unit to withstand regular use while its two-tiered design allows multiple dishes to be cooked simultaneously. Steaming uses no oils or fats and as a result produces healthy, low-calorie food. Although ideally suited to making savory dim sum, the domed steamer can just as easily be used to cook vegetables, shrimp, or muscles. Measuring 10 inches in diameter, the device fits comfortably inside a wok or stockpot during use and disassembles easily for simple storage. The steamer makes a useful and memorable gift and comes attractively packaged. Hand washing with water is recommended.

Joyce Chen opened her first restaurant in Cambridge, Massachusetts in 1958. She found that the selection and quality of Chinese cookware in America didn't live up to her high standards… so (more...)