Top 6 Donabe Steamer Inserts: A Buyer's Guide

Ever wished your donabe could do even more? Meet the donabe steamer insert! This clever little addition transforms your favorite pot into a versatile steaming powerhouse. Say goodbye to soggy vegetables and hello to perfectly cooked fish, delicate dumplings, and vibrant greens. Effortlessly elevate your donabe cooking with this simple, yet brilliant, addition – unlocking a world of healthy, flavourful steamed dishes. It's a game-changer for your kitchen, bringing the joy of steaming right to your donabe.

This curated list highlights top-performing products based on rigorous assessment. Selection criteria focused on material quality, even heat distribution, appropriate sizing, effortless cleaning, and overall durability ensured only the most reliable and effective options were included. These factors guarantee superior performance and user satisfaction.

1. Kai House Select Ceramic Steamer, 6.3", Made in Japan

Kai House Select Ceramic Steamer, 6.3", Made in Japan

This little Kai House Select steamer/lid is a game-changer. Made of odor and stain-resistant ceramic, it's incredibly versatile. I used it to steam vegetables perfectly, then as a lid to keep food warm, and finally as a handy colander to drain tofu – all in one meal! Its compact 6.3-inch size is perfect for individual portions or smaller cooking jobs. The quality is evident; it’s sturdy, easy to clean, and the Japanese craftsmanship shines through. Highly recommend it for anyone looking to add a multi-functional, space-saving piece to their kitchen arsenal.

This donabe steamer insert is versatile, easy to clean, and durable, offering remarkable value as a steamer and food insert. Its quality surpasses wood alternatives.

  • Manufacturer: 貝印(KAI CORPORATION)
  • Weight: 10.9 ounces
  • Rate: 4.3 / 100

2. Ceramic Steamer Plate: 20cm White Dumpling & Vegetable Steamer

Ceramic Steamer Plate: 20cm White Dumpling & Vegetable Steamer

This YARDWE ceramic steamer plate is a game-changer. I've been using the 20cm version, and the quality is excellent – sturdy, food-grade ceramic. The multiple holes ensure even steaming, perfect for dumplings, buns, or even fish (though I haven't tried that yet!). It's surprisingly versatile, and cleanup is a breeze. At $19.99, it's a great value for a product that's both attractive and functional. The size is ideal for a couple's meal or a small family serving. Highly recommend it for anyone looking for an upgrade from their old steamer.

  • Dimensions: 7.87 x 7.87 x 0.79 inches
  • Weight: 14.4 ounces
  • Rate: 4.3 / 3

3. Alimat Plus Large Silicone Steamer Basket for 6-8 Qt Pots

Alimat Plus Large Silicone Steamer Basket for 6-8 Qt Pots
    Highly rated
  • Build quality
  • Ease of cleaning
    Some controversy about
  • Size
  • Steaming capacity
  • Flexibility

This Alimat Plus steamer basket is a game-changer. Made of flexible, heat-resistant silicone (-40℉ to 536℉), it's surprisingly sturdy and easy to clean (dishwasher safe!). The large size (9.6x2 inches) fits my 6-quart pot perfectly. The holes allow for even cooking and great drainage, resulting in perfectly steamed veggies, dumplings, and even fish. The handles are comfortable and the non-slip feet keep it stable. It rolls up for compact storage, a real space-saver. While it's not microwave-safe, its versatility and ease of use make it a must-have for any kitchen.

This donabe steamer insert offers superior durability and easy cleaning, fitting various pot sizes for versatile steaming. Exceptional value for its quality.

  • Country: China
  • Manufacturer: Alimat PluS
  • Weight: 7 ounces
  • Rate: 4.1 / 147

4. Staub 9.4-inch Japanese Steamer Insert

Staub 9.4-inch Japanese Steamer Insert

This Staub steamer insert is a game-changer. The 9.4-inch (24cm) size fits perfectly, at least in my Wa-Nabe XL. It's made of high-quality 18/10 stainless steel, so it's durable and easy to clean. The precise fit ensures efficient steaming, and vegetables came out perfectly cooked – tender-crisp, not mushy. While the product information is a bit cryptic, the quality is undeniable. It's a worthwhile addition to any Staub cookware collection, especially if you're already using a larger pot. Highly recommend for even and healthy steaming.

This Staub donabe steamer insert boasts exceptional quality and craftsmanship, simplifying steaming while fitting perfectly within existing cookware. A remarkable value for ease of use and efficiency.

  • Brand: STAUB
  • Color: シルバー
  • Manufacturer: STAUB
  • Material: Stainless Steel
  • Shape: Rectangular
  • Weight: 2.6 pounds
  • Rate: 4.2 / 37

5. Anolon Classic Stainless Steel Steamer

Anolon Classic Stainless Steel Steamer
    Highly rated
  • Fit
  • Steam quality
  • Build quality
  • Ease of cleaning
  • Value for money
  • Appearance
  • Ease of use
    Some controversy about
  • Heat level

This Anolon steamer is a real workhorse. The stainless steel is sturdy and the fit on my various saucepans (2-4 quart) was perfect, no slipping around. I love the tight-fitting lid – it really does keep the steam in for perfectly cooked veggies. The handles are comfortable and large enough for easy maneuvering, even when full. And cleanup is a breeze; it's dishwasher safe! While it's not induction compatible, the oven-safe design (up to 500°F) is a plus for finishing dishes. Overall, a great, versatile steamer that's built to last.

This donabe steamer insert boasts versatile fit, durable stainless steel construction, and easy cleaning, offering remarkable value for its price.

  • Brand: Anolon
  • Color: Silver
  • Manufacturer: Meyer
  • Material: Stainless Steel
  • Size: 4 Quarts
  • Weight: 2.13 Pounds
  • Rate: 4.6 / 727

6. Deluxe Collapsible Stainless Steel Steamer Basket for Instant Pot (3-8 qt)

Deluxe Collapsible Stainless Steel Steamer Basket for Instant Pot (3-8 qt)
    Highly rated
  • Build quality
  • Size
  • Functionality
  • Ease of use
  • Value for money
  • Design
  • Ease of cleaning
  • Steaming capacity

This collapsible stainless steel steamer is a game-changer. It expands to fit various pot sizes (5.3-9.5 inches), making it perfect for my Instant Pot. The 18 petal design provides ample steaming surface area, and the detachable handle makes lifting out hot food a breeze. The three legs keep everything elevated above the boiling water, ensuring even cooking. It's incredibly easy to clean (dishwasher safe!), folds flat for storage, and is surprisingly sturdy. I've steamed everything from veggies and seafood to dumplings, and it’s preserved flavor and nutrients beautifully. Highly recommend!

This donabe steamer insert boasts sturdy construction, a secure handle, and adjustable legs for versatile use in various pot sizes, offering remarkable value.

  • Brand: DELUXE
  • Color: Stainless steel
  • Country: China
  • Manufacturer: DELUXE
  • Material: Stainless Steel
  • Shape: Small (5.3" to 9.5")
  • Weight: 13.1 ounces
  • Rate: 4.6 / 601