Updated January 29, 2020
The 7 Best Steam Ovens
This wiki has been updated 6 times since it was first published in January of 2020. Steam convection ovens combine the benefits of healthy cooking with the convenience of a microwave. These countertop models not only use vapors to retain nutrients and moisture but also employ convection heat. Thanks to a fan that circulates air through the interior, foods cook quickly and evenly. Often, the result is a dish that is juicy on the inside and crisp on the outside. When users buy our independently chosen editorial picks, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki. If you'd like to contribute your own research to the Wiki, please get started by reviewing this introductory video.
Editor's Notes
January 25, 2020:
Steam cooking technology has long been used in fine restaurants. As people sought to cook healthier meals from home, manufacturers found ways to meet their demands. The first steam cooker was perfect for a few health fanatics who had grown accustomed to bland foods, but it did little to satisfy the yearnings of those transitioning into a healthy lifestyle.
Traditional steam ovens only reach 212 degrees. Unfortunately, this temperature is not enough to brown foods. The models presented here use a combination of steam and convection heat to ensure foods remain moist on the inside and crisp on the outside.
The Emerson Deluxe and Cuisinart CSO-300N1 do a great job of keeping all the nutrients in foods without the need for oil and butter to give them color, texture, or flavor.
Most units can fit a medium-size pizza, but not all can ferment dough like the F.Blumlein JU-3200, or gently thaw foods like the AUG Convection Steam Grill.
Also, the F.Blumlein JU-3200 holds a 37.2-ounce water reservoir, which extends the maximum steam time to three hours as opposed to two hours with the other models on this list.
For those pressed for time, the Tovala Gen 2 Smart Oven often saves the day. With Tovala's scan to cook technology and smartphone compatibility, you can prepare meals in as little as 20 minutes.
Special Honors
Robam The Robam CT761 is manufactured by an award-winning luxury appliance brand that has been in business for over 40 years. With seven different settings, this space-saving model brings food to life. It comes equipped with a 3.17-gallon water tank to infuse foods with moisture, and a built-in convection fan ensures consistent results. A low water-indicator notifies you when the 180-minute vapor stream is nearing an end, and the self-cleaning mode keeps the interior spotless. robam.com