Multi-cookers allow you to cook several dishes at the same time, and can provide functionality such as slicing, steaming and even kneading dough. They are ideal tools for quick cooking. With a wide range of pre-set user modes, these machines require little or no supervision, making them ideal multifunctional kitchen equipment for beginners and professional chefs alike.
Most kitchens have different tools and gadgets that perform highly specialized tasks, but an egg machine will only cook eggs, a yogurt maker will only cook yogurt, and a juicer will only juice. It is here that the genius and beauty of the multicooker is manifested. This kitchen appliance is designed to perform multiple culinary tasks, and is often capable of doing them all at the same time.
This review presents the mosthigh-performance, efficient and durable models available on the market today, as well as helpful tips on choosing the right multicooker.
Benefit of Ownership
Slow cookers are extremely useful for both crowded parties and quick meals for one person. Below are the main benefits of using these versatile food processors:
- Timer virtually eliminates food spoilage during cooking.
- Slow cookers don't require oil, making food he althier.
- Food retains more minerals and vitamins that are easily destroyed by traditional cooking methods.
- Special cookware cooks 5 times faster than traditional cookware.
- Multifunctional food processors save space. If you choose the right multicooker, it will replace several single-purpose blocks.
- These devices make fresh and he althy meals.
- Perfect for busy people who need to multi-task and those who live in small apartments with limited storage and cooking space.
How to choose a multicooker for home? Expert advice recommends considering the following characteristics:
- Power required for efficient operation, heating and cooking.
- Volume. To choose the right multicooker, you need to make sure that its capacity is sufficient to cook 2-3 dishes at the same time.
- Strength of materials. The materials used in the construction should provide greater resistance to physical damage.
- Presence of cooking modes (programs) and additional functions that satisfy the user's preferences.
- Pressure. Changing this setting affects the cooking time.
The basics of choosing a multicooker
The power of the device determines the possibilities and, most importantly, the speed of cooking. Usually 450-1600-watt models are produced. The higher the power consumption, the more productive the machine.
To choose a multicooker according to the power parameter, you need to find out the expected frequency of its use. For example, those who use this kitchen appliance daily need at least 900W of power, and those who rarely cook need 500W or less.
Capacity size
The amount of food that can be cooked at one time depends on the volume of the multicooker. This indicator usually varies from 2 to 6 liters.
Before you choose a slow cooker for your home, you need to decide on the amount of food to be cooked. For medium needs, a 4.5 liter container is sufficient.
Multipurpose
Since devices of this type perform more than one function, it is recommended to choose a multicooker model with a large number of operating modes or programs. Each one is designed for a specific cooking method, from steaming and baking to specific tasks such as slicing, kneading and whipping.
Mostdevices support at least 3 modes of operation, and more complex ones - 12 or more. This number directly corresponds to the number of cooking options available.
How to choose the right multicooker: useful tips
If necessary, you can find a model that supports the following functionality:
- Timer. Provides functions such as setting the cooking time or delayed start. The latter allows you to set the time when the device will start working and turn off.
- Steam removal. Some multicookers are equipped with steam valves designed to release steam gently during and after cooking, making it safer to use.
- Reheat and reheat mode for already cooked food.
Usually additional options are:
- Supports a variety of modes, including steaming, boiling, frying, stewing, chopping, and more.
- Accessories needed for weighing, kneading, whipping, steaming, chopping, etc.
- Different cooking speed for different cooking methods.
Operating modes
Besides price, design and other important features, another important consideration is the number of cooking functions offered by the multicooker. How to choose a model according to this criterion? Below are the most popular cooking methods that are implemented in most multicookers.
Slow cooking
Users who are not sure whichchoose a slow cooker for the home, expert advice recommends making sure that the slow cooker mode is available. This function allows you to cook food at the touch of a button and does not require constant supervision. For example, to cook meat, just put it in a slow cooker with the right amount of liquid and seasonings and set a timer. You can cook vegetables and other foods that require two or more hours of cooking in the same way.
Pressure cooker
This type of cookware has always been popular for the convenience it offers, especially among busy people and large families. The pressure cooker cooks food faster than traditional methods. This eliminates the need to have a separate pan. The low pressure setting should be used for light vegetable dishes, and the high pressure setting for dense foods such as meat.
Cooking rice
Many models include this feature as automatic. Before choosing a multicooker for the home, you need to make sure that it supports this mode of operation so that the purchased device can best meet the needs of the user. The rice cooker saves time and energy by allowing you to cook rice at the same time as cooking 1-2 more dishes.
Steamer
Steaming is desirable for almost any meal, and some people prefer this method for its obvious he alth benefits. Unlike traditional boiling and frying, steaming retains more nutrients and alsodoes not require oil. In this mode, while cooking rice or other products, you can cook he althy meals for the whole family. That is why, before choosing a multicooker, user advice recommends making sure that this mode of operation is available.
Sautéing
Many owners find this mode very convenient. It allows you to brown the meat before roasting or stewing. This feature saves time and energy by eliminating the need for additional pots and heat sources when cooking.
Below is a list of the best modern models, which will make it easier to answer the question of which brand of multicooker to choose.
Instant Pot IP-DUO60
This model is one of the best selling. Therefore, for those who do not know which multicooker to choose, customer reviews strongly recommend purchasing it. The owners call her the perfect helper in the kitchen, because no matter what needs to be cooked, she will always come to the rescue. The 1000 W multicooker supports 7 operating modes, as well as 14 built-in smart programs that allow you to easily select the desired setting for cooking recipes.
What might you need in the kitchen? Rice cooker, slow cooker, pressure cooker, deep fryer, steamer, yogurt maker, dishwasher safe, food warmer, energy saving? All this and more is available in the Instant-Pot IP-DUO60 universal multicooker. The 3rd generation model is equipped with advanced technology that providesthe best features that a kitchen helper can have. The device allows you to cook meat, vegetables, risotto, chicken and many other recipes.
- Performance. According to user reviews, they did not have any complaints about the operation of the multicooker in any of its operating modes. The device perfectly copes with all cooking settings. According to the owners, they no longer have a question about which model of multicooker to choose - Instant Pot is much better than anything they have de alt with before.
- Durability. No one likes buying something only to have it replaced under warranty soon. This multicooker is durable. The 3rd generation model was first released in 2014 and no one has complained about its quality since then.
- Easy to use. The multicooker does not require special training to work with it or additional settings. A simple instruction manual makes everything easy to understand.
Features stain-resistant stainless steel container, wide range of food options, versatility, high efficiency saving up to 70% energy, easy cleaning with stainless steel surface.
The disadvantages of the multicooker are the limited high pressure range that makes it difficult to adapt most recipes.
Overall, the Instant Pot IP-DUO60 has been praised by users for its versatility, durability and ease of preparation.
RedmondM4502E Multi-Cooker
This is a fairly large 5 liter multicooker capable of steaming, frying, pasta, pie and stewing, boasting 860W of power. Redmond M4502E is equipped with an LCD display and digital controls that allow you to select one of 34 modes. This number includes 16 automatic programs and 18 manual options. The model allows you to fry, cook pasta, rice, soups, stew vegetables, oatmeal, vegetable and meat dishes, bake in pots, fry french fries, cook mulled wine, yogurt, soufflé, fondue and desserts, make additional settings for dough, bread and cheese.
A multicooker like Redmond is worth choosing, if only because it provides 3-dimensional heating (bottom, side and top), allows you to set the temperature from 40 to 160 degrees, has a cooking timer with an automatic heating function within 24 hours. Comes with 100 recipe book, spoon, spatula, holder, measuring cup, steam and deep fry container and tongs.
Elite Platinum EPC-808
This multi-cooker with stainless steel bowl offers 13 cooking modes for maximum efficiency. The model is suitable for novice users, since it does not require special training. The beauty of the design is that the stainless steel bowl can be purchased separately.
One of the most remarkable features of the device is the setting,providing steam during cooking to retain essential nutrients and aroma. The slow cooker saves time and produces delicious food that most slow cookers cannot guarantee.
Features of the model are the real versatility. EPC MaxiMatic supports 13 cooking modes that allow you to reheat food, cook brown, peeled and wild rice, cereals, potatoes, desserts, fish, vegetables, and more. The model will automatically reactivate after power is restored, resuming the interrupted program without user intervention. The device allows you to cook under pressure according to an individual program ranging from 0 to 99 minutes.
The advantages of the multicooker are versatility (13 modes provide enough variety), ease and speed of cooking (after adding all the ingredients, you can do other things, waiting for the notification that the program has ended) and beautiful design. The Elite Platinum EPC MaxiMatic is not just a machine that is practical and useful in the kitchen. The manufacturer provided the model with a beautiful and aesthetic design in three different colors (blue, black and red).
The disadvantages of the device are the lack of a slow cooking mode, as well as the leakage of steam from the lid, although the latter defect is not found in every copy of the multicooker.
The way a model is used determines how it fits the wearer. Some people can't do without the slow cooker mode, while others can't.are used at all. If this gap in functionality is not a concern, then the Elite Platinum EPC MaxiMatic multicooker will be indispensable.
Cuisinart MSC-600
Every good cook who understands the process of preparing delicious food will appreciate this slow cooker. Cuisinart MSC-600 will suit users who are looking for a convenient and easy way to cook.
The model offers all the necessary options for pre-processing, main and post-processing of products, allowing you to create the most delicious dishes. However, user reviews do not recommend choosing the Cuisinart MSC-600 multicooker for beginners who are trying slow cooking for the first time or experimenting with other modes. But for those who are already used to using such devices, this advanced technology will be your best assistant in the kitchen.
Frying, browning and browning the slow cooker does very quickly. Its aluminum blades distribute heat easily and evenly for perfect cooking.
Cuisinart MSC-600 features an elegant design. The device is equipped with 2 backlit displays that inform about the cooking time and temperature. The user has access to 3 functional screens for slow cooker, sauté and steam cooking modes.
This is an easy-to-use multicooker that allows you to understand its capabilities without forcing you to resort to instructions for use. The glass lid with handle is easy to lift when you need to check the cooking progress.food. The 6-litre bowl is removable and non-stick, making it much easier to clean the bowl after use.
The advantages of the model are the availability of all necessary operating modes, including frying, sautéing, steaming and slow cooking in one container. The large LCD display makes it easy to set and control the time and temperature. Users are dissatisfied with the lack of a delayed start timer - it is impossible to pre-set the cooking time and postpone it until later, although most devices of this type allow this.
In general, the model is multifunctional, easy to use and maintain. Choosing a slow cooker will help the fact that, despite the versatility, you only have to wash one bowl and a lid.
Polaris PMC 0507D Kitchen
When deciding which Polaris multicooker to choose, you should pay attention to this popular inexpensive 5-liter model with 11 automatic programs. It combines the capabilities of a double boiler and a yogurt maker, maintains the temperature of the dish throughout the day and has a warm-up function. Multicookers can stew, bake, fry, cook soups, milk porridge, buckwheat, rice, dumplings, sausages, as well as the possibility of a custom operating mode. There is a timer and a delay start timer. The model comes with a spoon, spatula, measuring cup, steamer container and recipe book. The power of the heating element is 700 watts. The bowl has a non-stick coating. In the event of a power failure, the program is saved for 20 minutes. Available in beige and white.
Gourmia GMC650SS
For those who want their multicooker to be able to do everything necessary in the kitchen, this model will be ideal. The model supports 11 cooking functions, including rice cooking, sautéing, sous vide, slow cooking and more with custom settings.
Gourmia GMC650SS is available in a variety of colors. This is not just a kitchen appliance, it is a design element that will perfectly fit the color scheme of the interior. The features of the model are multifunctionality, the possibility of manual control, non-stick pot, quick and easy cooking.
Multicooker features include multiple cooking modes including Bake, Rice Boil, Toast, Yogurt, Porridge, Slow Cook, Reheat, Sauté and Steam, a variety of color options and custom settings. Its main disadvantage is the lack of water circulation, which does not provide, for example, sufficient sous vide quality.
However, for those who don't want to cook the old way anymore, the Gourmia GMC650 is the perfect solution.
