Preparing tamales is important about having the proper tools and equipment. This meal, like many traditional foods, comprises multiple phases and needs a large number of hands to help in the preparation. The tamale-making procedure, known as tamalada, is often appreciated as a gathering activity by family and friends. Yet, having all of your friends and family in the world will not compensate for not having the greatest tamale steamer pot for the task. The normal steamer isn’t created for the specific cooking environment that tamales need, which is why you should look into the finest tamale steamer pots on the market and determine which one best matches your demands.
Best Selection
The Oster Sangerfield Stainless Steel Cookware is our top pick because it has a large cooking capacity that allows you to make a large number of tamales at once, a clear lid that allows you to easily monitor them and produce more flavorful, juicy tamales, and a sturdy stainless steel construction that makes it more durable and long-lasting.
Budget Selection
The Mockins Steamer Pot Set is our budget selection because it has a well-built design that makes it easy to use and maintain, a rust-resistant and quality construction that makes it durable and looks new, and it performs as an outstanding steamer that speeds up the preparation of tamales.
Contents
- Quick Comparison: Top 10 Best Tamale Steamers
- 1. Oster Sangerfield Stainless Steel Cookware
- Mockins Steamer Pot Set No. 2
- 3. Farberware Classic Series Steamer Insert Saucepot
- 4. IMUSA USA MEXICANA-24 Tamale Steamer
- 5. IMUSA USA MEXICANA-420 Steamer with Glass Lid
- 6. Granite Ware Tamale Pot with Steamer Insert
- 7. GasOne ST-32 Stock & Steamer Rack
- 8. IMUSA USA MEXICANA-732 Steamer
- 9. Smart Cook 20 Qt Tamale Steamer
- 10. Smart Cook 32 Qt Tamale Steamer
- How to Choose the Best Tamale Steamer for Consistently Excellent Tamales
- The Advantages of a Good Tamale Steamer
- Tamale Steamer Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
- FAQs
- What is the best steamer for tamales?
- How many tamales can you put in a 32-quart steamer?
- Do I steam tamales on low or high heat?
- What are traditional tamales steamed in?
- How long does it take to steam 7 dozen tamales?
- Can you over steam tamales?
- How long to steam a lot of tamales?
- How many tamales should you steam at once?
- How often do you add water to steam tamales?
- What is the best way to steam tamales at home?
Quick Comparison: Top 10 Best Tamale Steamers
| Product Name | Weight (pounds) |
Material | Capacity (quarts) |
Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oster Sangerfield Stainless Steel Cookware | 2.77 | stainless steel | 3.00 | A |
| Mockins Steamer Pot Set | 5.04 | stainless steel | 3.00 | A |
| Farberware Classic Series Saucepot with Steamer Insert | 3.55 | stainless steel | 3.00 | A |
| IMUSA USA MEXICANA-24 Tamale Steamer | 3.12 | aluminum | 12.00 | B |
| IMUSA USA MEXICANA-420 Steamer with Glass Lid | 4.79 | aluminum | 20.00 | A |
| Granite Ware Tamale Pot with Steamer Insert | 0.42 | porcelain | 15.50 | B |
| GasOne ST-32 Stock & Steamer Rack | 12.70 | stainless steel | 32.00 | A |
| IMUSA USA MEXICANA-732 Steamer | 7.33 | aluminum | 32.00 | A |
| Smart Cook 20 Qt Tamale Steamer | 3.49 | aluminum | 20.00 | A |
| Smart Cook 32 Qt Tamale Steamer | 5.10 | aluminum | 32.00 | B |
1. Oster Sangerfield Stainless Steel Cookware
Highlighted Characteristics
- A 3-quart saucepan with a glass top and a steamer insert are included with the steamer set.
- The whole set is comprised of long-lasting stainless steel.
- It also functions as a Dutch oven.
The Oster Steamer Set is a multipurpose kitchen tool that includes a stockpot for regular cooking, a steamer insert for making delicious tamales, and much more. The package comes with everything you need to get started creating delicious tamales right away, and you can even see how they’re progressing via the transparent glass cover.
Its steamer guarantees that your tamales are correctly steamed without absorbing water or being overdone, and the easy-to-remove steamer insert allows you to remove your meal while leaving the hot pot on the burner to cool. Moreover, if you have any leftover tamales, you can use this to re-steam them or heat them up the following day.
What we liked: The glass cover is composed of robust materials, so it will not shatter when exposed to intense heat.
What we didn’t like: This item isn’t dishwasher-safe, and the handles aren’t heat-resistant.
Mockins Steamer Pot Set No. 2
Highlighted Characteristics
- Handles that are resistant to heat
- Induction, electric, portable, gas, glass, and ceramic stovetops are all compatible.
- The saucepot has capacity marks.
The Mockins Steamer Pot Set makes it simple to create the tastiest tamales. The set includes a saucepot with a capacity of 3 quarts, a steamer insert with a capacity of 2 quarts, and a tightly fitting vented glass top. The cover helps to keep food wet, making it more juicy and tasty. With this set, you can also effortlessly steam a variety of veggies.
The objects are made of 8 stainless steel, which means they are unlikely to corrode very soon. The stainless steel design also allows the set to last for a long time. Moreover, since the steamer insert features an aluminum base that traps heat well, this set is noted for dispersing heat evenly throughout its cooking surface area. The saucepot and steamer insert are both composed of heavy-duty 18-inch stainless steel.
What we liked: You may steam a large number of tamales, veggies, or other foods in a single batch. This saves time and effort and enables you to concentrate on other critical activities.
What we didn’t like: Since this item weights 5.04 pounds, it may be difficult to transport from one location to another.
3. Farberware Classic Series Steamer Insert Saucepot
Highlighted Characteristics
- Business Insider named it the Best Stovetop Steamer for 2020.
- Heavy-duty stainless steel was used in its construction.
- Dishwasher-safe
If you want to cook tamales quickly, the Farberware Classic Series Saucepot with Steamer Insert is a must-have. With a 3 quart size, you can easily cook enough tamales for 2-4 people with this item. This item may also be used to create soup or to steam lobsters or veggies.
Between the stainless steel layers of the steamer insert and the saucepot is an aluminum core. This allows them to retain heat efficiently and fast. It also aids in the uniform distribution of heat across the cooking area. There are unlikely to be any hot or cold patches in there, so you may cook your meal in less time. Also, you will be able to utilize this item in the oven. Just be sure the temperature does not get over 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
What we liked: There is enough room between the base and the steamer insert to accommodate a large volume of water. This keeps the water from drying out, which means you won’t have to add water as often.
What we didn’t like: The saucepot lacks heat-resistant handles, necessitating the use of potholders. Also, the handles are a little fragile.
4. IMUSA USA MEXICANA-24 Tamale Steamer
Highlighted Features
- Tamales may be easily steamed thanks to the detachable steamer attachment.
- There are 12-, 20-, and 32-quart capacities available.
- Durable aluminum construction that will last for years
The 12-quart IMUSA Mexicana-24 Aluminum Tamale and Steamer pro pot has a detachable steamer insert and an aluminum top for best steaming. This pot may also be used as a regular stockpot without the steamer attachment, providing you more choices than other alternatives. The shallow steamer tray’s unusual form is ideal for seafood and other steamed dishes.
This sturdy pot is made of heavy-duty metal and has enough room to cook modest quantities of tamales. If you don’t need a large stockpot, this might be the perfect pot for you. IMUSA is a well-known housewares company that manufactures a wide range of ethnic appliances and cookware, as well as other niche goods. This steamer pot is just one of their many popular kitchen gadgets, and it is ideal for people looking for a better way to make tamales.
What we liked: Since this set can be used in the oven, you may cook in a number of techniques.
What we didn’t like: When exposed to high temperatures, the pot is prone to warping. Also, consumers have complained that it rusts after a few usage.
5. IMUSA USA MEXICANA-420 Steamer with Glass Lid
Highlighted Elements
- Composed of heat-resistant metal that distributes heat evenly.
- Has a glass lid with a built-in steam vent.
- The handles remain cold to the touch.
The IMUSA steamer with a glass top has a bigger 20-quart capacity and makes an excellent mid-size tamale steamer. The size is ideal for cooking a large number of tamales at once while remaining compact. With appropriate care, this heavy-duty steamer pot constructed of aluminum will endure for many years. It can also prepare shrimp, corn on the cob, and other delicately steamed things.
This tamale steamer pot comes in smaller and bigger sizes with the same functionality, guaranteeing that everyone has access to the steaming solution they need. While not steaming tamales, you may create delicious soups, sauces, beans, pasta, and other dishes. It’s ideal for large-batch cooking and steaming on a daily basis or for special events. Moreover, it comes from IMUSA, a market leader in ethnic cookware, kitchen utensils, and housewares.
What we liked: The handles and knob stay cool throughout the cooking process. This item is also suitable for use on glass stovetops.
What we didn’t like: When you open the lid, boiling water sprays everywhere. While utilizing it, you must use extreme caution.
6. Granite Ware Tamale Pot with Steamer Insert
Highlighted Characteristics
- Composed of chip-resistant, long-lasting granite
- With a detachable insert for steaming, it’s ideal for tamales.
- 15.5-quart storage capacity
The Granite Ware Tamale Pot with Steamer Insert is suitable for producing medium-sized quantities of tamales, or big amounts if cooking less at a time is not a concern. Its one-of-a-kind glass-like surface distinguishes itself by not reacting with food and making cleaning a breeze. The outside is porcelain-coated to promote superior heat conduction and a long-lasting finish.
This tamale pot is not suggested for glass stovetops, but it produces remarkable performance and high-quality results in every batch on every other kind of range. All you have to do to clean it is wash it in warm, soapy water before storing it until you create your next batch. Of course, you may steam vegetables and other meals in the pot, or remove the insert and use it as a stockpot for soups and other stuff.
What we liked: The item is incredibly lightweight, making it simple to transport from one location to another. Because of the big capacity, you can prepare 20-30 tamales in a single batch. This makes it ideal for gatherings.
What we didn’t like: Since the item is big, it may be tough to store if you have limited room.
7. GasOne ST-32 Stock & Steamer Rack
Highlighted Features
- The external walls are thicker for durability and consistent heating.
- A detachable steamer rack and a lid are included.
- 8-gallon (32-quart) capacity
The GasOne ST-32 is a serious stockpot and tamale steamer that has all you need and more. It has a thicker stainless steel structure that will last for years and qualifies as a commercial-grade device that can be used in any context. It also has a stylish stainless-steel appearance that will complement the aesthetic of any kitchen or cooking environment.
This huge pot and steamer can handle anything from seafood to tamales and everything in between. Without the steamer rack, you may use it as a standard stockpot to make stocks, soups, broths, and other dishes.
What we liked: The huge capacity makes it ideal for quickly preparing a large amount of meals.
What we didn’t like: Since the item weighs 12.7 pounds, you may need some help getting it off the cooktop. Also, the narrow bottom is prone to rusting fast.
8. IMUSA USA MEXICANA-732 Steamer
Highlighted Elements
- The steamer set features a glass cover and a replaceable steamer insert.
- Built with strong and long-lasting aluminum materials
- The handles and knob are ruby crimson.
With the IMUSA USA MEXICANA-732 Steamer, you can prepare a few dozen tamales in flair. It has a high capacity of 32 quarts, which eliminates the need to prepare tamales in separate batches. The steamer rack separates the food from the water, preventing it from getting too soggy. Since the steamer rack is detachable, you may make different foods such as soup, spaghetti, stews, seafood, lobsters, oatmeal, and much more.
The steamer’s aluminum structure allows it to hold and transfer heat well. When exposed to high temperatures, the cooking area warms up rapidly and does not bend. The steam vents in the glass cover help your food keep moisture and taste. Throughout the cooking period, the handles and knob do not heat up. While preparing tamales in this steamer, you no longer need to use potholders or oven mitts.
What we liked: The handles are pretty robust and have a pleasant touch that enables you to gently wrap your fingers around them.
What we didn’t like: The steamer is pretty large and may take up more than one burner on a range. In addition, the piece weights 7.33 pounds.
9. Smart Cook 20 Qt Tamale Steamer
Highlighted Characteristics
- The saucepot has a steamer insert and a rack.
- Handles that are resistant to heat
- Lightweight and portable
The Smart Cook 20 Qt Tamale Steamer is ideal for those who wish to prepare steamed tamales like an expert. Because of the big capacity, you may pour in a considerable quantity of water, preventing it from drying out during the cooking period. The steamer insert has a big surface area for adding seafood, veggies, lobsters, crabs, and other items. You may cook chili, stews, or soups without the insert.
The riveted handles are well-built and give a pleasant grip for lifting or transporting this huge pot. The lid fits properly and helps to keep moisture in the pot. Because of the aluminum design, the steamer can endure high temperatures, allowing you to use it to prepare a range of cuisines. The item is not overly large, making it simple to store.
What we liked: The gadget weighs just 3.49 pounds, making it simple to transport from one location to another.
What we didn’t like: The cover isn’t clear, so you have to raise it to see how your meal is doing. Heat might escape, resulting in extended cook times.
10. Smart Cook 32 Qt Tamale Steamer
Highlighted Features
- The Vaporera Stock Pot has a huge 32-quart capacity.
- It comes with a steam rack and a cover.
- It has the capacity to cook up to eight liters of liquid.
The 32-qt. Tamale Steamer Vaporera Stock Pot is ideal for making family-sized amounts of tamales while spending less time cooking. This massive saucepan comes with a convenient steamer rack to hold the tamales while they cook to perfection. The riveted handles are cool to the touch and enable safe cooking and handling.
This tamale steamer pot has a glass top that allows you to keep the heat in for optimal steaming while keeping an eye on your food. The pot is constructed of heavy-duty metal and will last for many years, whether you prepare tamales once a year or all the time. Moreover, it may be used for a number of different cooking and steaming requirements, making it an excellent multi-purpose investment. This pot is an excellent alternative if you want something bigger and more flexible.
What we liked: Since the steamer rack is detachable, you can cook soup, stew, curry, and other foods as well.
What we didn’t like: It doesn’t have a transparent top, so you’ll have to raise it to check on the progress of your meal.
How to Choose the Best Tamale Steamer for Consistently Excellent Tamales
There are several tamale steamers and pots on the market today, and they are not all made equal. These steamers are available in a range of sizes, materials, and features and accessories. There are a few factors that will be more crucial than the others if you want to ensure that you have the greatest steamer for the task. Continue reading to learn how to limit down your alternatives.
Size Does Matter
The size of the pot is more crucial than anything else when selecting a tamale steamer. After all, you don’t want to prolong this time-consuming procedure any longer than necessary. If you are just cooking a few tamales for your family, a smaller steamer may be appropriate. If you need to feed a large group, you should opt for a steamer with the highest capacity.
Of course, you can’t only glance at the steamer’s capacity. You should also think about its proportions. Taller steamers are perfect since they enable you to cook more tamales in a smaller area, allowing you to steam vertically and complete the tamale-making process much faster than you could with your current equipment.
For single-family usage, most individuals will choose for an 8- to 12-quart steamer. Other folks, on the other hand, who party or cook huge batches of tamales to share with friends and family may choose one of the enormous 32-quart steamers, which can accommodate a lot of tamales and other delicacies.
A 10-quart steamer can cook roughly 30 tamales per batch, but a 28-quart steamer can cook up to 100 tamales per batch. This is vital information to remember if you want to cook less yet produce more.
What are the best materials?
Tamale steamers are often composed of aluminum or stainless steel for a longer lifespan. This also means that the steamers are compatible with a wider variety of stovetops and ranges than some other pots and steamers on the market. Aluminum is the favored heating material, but stainless steel is gaining market share since it is more robust while still delivering a great attractive appearance.
Of course, there is a brand-new choice on the market today: the toothe electric tamale steamer. This gadget resembles a crockpot or pressure cooker in appearance and operation, and it can provide the same steaming power as a regular stovetop steamer, but with its own power supply and temperature settings. There is only one electric steamer on our list, but it is an option to consider if you want something easy to use.
Instead, you should generally stick to aluminum or stainless steel for tamale steaming. These materials transfer heat well and provide uniform cooking as well as a far more lasting result than other materials.
Put a Lid on It!
Most people don’t know how important the lid is, but the tamale steamer is only as good as the lid it sits on. These pots often have a flat or somewhat dome-shaped cover with a broad, robust handle. Lids must also be secure to keep the heat in, but not so tight that steam cannot escape. Stainless steel, aluminum, and glass lids are common, but glass lids are recommended since they enable you to keep a watch on your tamales as they cook.
While the lid is largely a matter of personal choice, you must have one in order for the steaming process to be as successful as possible.
Additional Things to Think About
There’s a lot more to purchasing a good steamer for your next batch of tamales. You should always buy reputed products, as well as a steamer that is particularly intended for steaming tamales. After all, not all steamer pots are designed for the same purposes and may cook differently depending on their size and configuration.
Several steamer pots include detachable steam trays, making them more flexible since you can remove the tray and use them as conventional pots in many circumstances. These steamers may provide a lot of culinary possibilities for your kitchen area in addition to creating wonderful tamales.
Another important consideration is the handles, which should be strong and welded or riveted on. Also, they should be cold to the touch. There is just too much out there for you to be dealing with hot handles and other avoidable issues. Choose Cool Touch products and features wherever possible for increased safety and convenience.
Check out the adaptability of the steamer as a last element that should be on your list. Can this pot cook anything other than tamales? Since you are unlikely to make tamales on a daily basis, investing in a pot that can do more than simply steam is a far better investment. Pick a pot with a detachable steamer tray to make the most of it, no matter what kind of cooking you want to do.
The Advantages of a Good Tamale Steamer
Possessing a tamale steamer not only makes it simpler to manufacture tamales, but it is also required. Tamales are a classic cuisine that originated in Central America and Mexico, but are now popular all over the globe due to the diversity of filling possibilities and the distinct and broad spectrum of tastes. Ingredients and filling are unimportant. The fact that the contents are wrapped in corn husks and then cooked to perfection is what distinguishes a tamale.
Tamales may be prepared in a variety of ways, including grilling and baking, but they are traditionally steamed, and those that cook authentically will tell you it is the only option. This distinct food is prevalent across Latin America, with many names and slang phrases such as bollo or tamal. Tamales were also prepared by the Mayan and Aztec civilizations, however the preparation and warming procedures differed.
Not all steamers have the same advantages, so let’s look at some of the most prevalent below.
Versatility
Tamales, once again, are a labor-intensive food that most people do not have the time to prepare on a regular basis. As a result, having a pot or steamer that can be used for items other than tamales is a far better decision for your kitchen. There are various steamers on the market with detachable inserts, allowing you to use the pot as a conventional pot if desired.
Another useful feature is that most of these steamers can steam vegetables, fish, and other foods. They may not all publicize it, but it is available.
Tamale Steaming at its Finest
You no longer have to make educated guesses or hope that your tamales come out well. With a specialized steamer pot, you’ll have everything you need to cook delicious tamales every time. These pieces of cookware are specialized just to tamales, guaranteeing that although they may also cook other things, the tamales are cooked correctly. The lids will also offer a secure steam environment for making the greatest tamales imaginable.
While steaming tamales isn’t rocket science, uniformity is important. Even if you’ve been cooking tamales for years, you know how difficult it can be to make consistent tamales that cook evenly and correctly. Timing and cooking concerns will never be an issue with the various steamers developed specifically for preparing tamales.
Source for Dedicated Cooking
When you buy a tamale steaming pot, you give yourself a designated room to prepare supper and do something to make yourself feel more productive. Possessing a pot designed for tamales ensures that you always have the equipment you need to complete the task. You won’t be using a random pot or a generic steamer that isn’t built to accommodate the tamale’s specific demands.
Because of the increased demand for these sorts of pots and equipment, finding the finest specialized tamale steamer will be simpler than ever. This will enable you to concentrate on perfecting your tamales or just have a somewhat more genuine experience when you want to try your hand at preparing something new.
Speed
You’ll be able to speed up the manufacturing process and have your tamales cooked much quicker if you utilize a tamale steamer. These steamers are intended to contain the most tamales possible, which means you’ll need to cook fewer batches and hence won’t spend nearly as much time cooking tamales as you may have before.
While making tamales is more of an event than a race, efficiency has its advantages. It is less about how quickly they cook and more about how good they cook.
Tamale Steamer Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to use a particular steamer or pot to prepare tamales?
There’s no law that says you have to purchase a tamale steamer pot to cook these delectable delicacies. That will, however, make the work much simpler. Be sure to consider all of your alternatives and learn about what steamers have to offer. That way, you’ll be able to see for yourself how much time and effort you can save.
How many tamales can I prepare at the same time?
Every steamer out there will have a distinct need or capacity. Smaller versions may only be capable of cooking 20 or 30 tamales at a time, but bigger commercial-grade pots and steamers may be capable of cooking up to 100 tamales in a single batch. If you want to cook everything in one batch, acquire a larger steamer and you’ll be on your way to fast and simple cooking, which is still the majority of the job.
Conclusion
Purchasing the finest tamale steamer for your requirements can alleviate a lot of the tension associated with a cuisine that is already time-consuming and labor-intensive. These steamers have numerous features and advantages, and some are meant to be used for other culinary purposes than tamale preparation. Be sure to look into all of the items on the market today and see what they have to offer. You will then have a much better notion of what you need.
Whether it’s a steamer from the list above or something completely different, you can use the simple purchasing guide to check all the boxes and ensure you purchase the proper steamer for the task. Take use of this to get your tamales done quicker, whether you’re preparing 20 or 200.
FAQs
What is the best steamer for tamales?
The Top Tamale Steamer Items on the Market Right Now
Oster 3.0-Quart Stainless Steel Cookware…. IMUSA USA 32-Quart Aluminum Tamale and Steamer Pot, Silver…. BELLA OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel Steamer With Extending Handle…. OXO Good Grips Silicone Steamer…. Microwave Steamer Collapsible Bowl.
Jun 1, 2022
How many tamales can you put in a 32-quart steamer?
A 32-quart aluminum can holds 120 tamales. A 28-quart aluminum can holds 100 tamales. A 24-quart aluminum can holds 77 tamales. 62 tamales = 20-quart stainless steel.
Do I steam tamales on low or high heat?
Put the heat up to high and let the water to boil. Reduce the heat to medium. Arrange the tamales around the steamer. Steam for 20-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
What are traditional tamales steamed in?
Tamales are wrapped and baked in maize husks or banana leaves, but they are eaten without the husks. Serve with pico de gallo on top with guacamole and rice on the side.
How long does it take to steam 7 dozen tamales?
Put the tamales in the steamer vertically, open-side up, but not too tightly, or they will not be able to expand. Cover with the remaining corn husks. Cover and steam for 35 minutes, or until the corn husk easily peels away from the tamal. Let the tamales to cool for 10 to 15 minutes.
Can you over steam tamales?
Tamales should not be steamed for too long. Tamales that have been overcooked are soggy. If this occurs, remove the moisture with a wet paper towel and bake them for approximately 10 minutes at 350°F.
How long to steam a lot of tamales?
Make sure the water level remains below the tamales. While heating numerous tamales at once, keep them erect. Cover and steam for 25-30 minutes for 1-4 frozen tamales. Cover and steam for 35-40 minutes for 5 or more tamales.
How many tamales should you steam at once?
Steaming more than two layers of tamales at once makes it difficult for the steam to reach the middle layers.
How often do you add water to steam tamales?
Every 15 to 20 minutes, pour 2 cup (120 ml) of boiling water into the saucepan to keep the steam flowing. When the husk easily peels away from the tamales, remove them from the saucepan. Remove 1 tamale from the pot and peel back the husk to test whether it’s finished cooking. Tamales should be steamed until the dough breaks away from the husks. You will need to pour one
What is the best way to steam tamales at home?
Fill up to halfway with water in the bottom of a steamer. Increase the heat to high and wait for the water to boil. Put the tamales in the steamer insert, making sure they are not in contact with the water. Cook for 45-60 minutes, or until done.