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USEFUL HINTS
For high altitude cooking, steaming times may need to be increased.
Steaming times stated in the Steaming Guide and Recipes are only to
be used as a guide. Times may vary depending on the size of pieces,
spacing and placement in the bowl, and personal preference. As you
become more familiar with the steamer, adjust cooking times accordingly.
A single layer of food steams faster than several layers. For larger
quantities of food, the cooking time must be increased.
• For best results, foods should be similar in size.
• Meat, poultry and seafood must be thawed completely before steaming.
• Always use cold water in the water reservoir.
• Never add seasonings, broth or herbs to the water reservoir.
• Water only must be used in the water reservoir.
• Meat, poultry and seafood should not be touching the sides of the
steamer trays – air must be able to circulate completely for proper
cooking.
• When using the rice bowl, wipe off the bottom after removing from
steamer to avoid dripping hot accumulated water on counter or floor.
• When using recipes, follow quantities as closely as possible for best
results.
• Some recipes may be modified to include the use of plastic wrap, which
helps seal in herbs and other flavors and makes cleanup even easier.
Cuisinart recommends using Saran
™
Classic wrap. See the recipe section
for examples.
For optimal results, do not overfill steaming trays with food.
CLEANING AND STORAGE
Always unplug the steamer from electrical outlet and allow to cool
completely before cleaning. Before first use and after each use, clean
each part thoroughly. Wash all parts (except steamer base and turbo
convection fan) in warm soapy water; rinse and dry thoroughly.
Do not use chlorine bleach or abrasive cleaners on any part of the
steamer.
For convenience, the following parts are top rack dishwasher safe:
• Large Steaming Tray
• Second Steaming Tray
• Rice Bowl
• Lid
Never put turbo convection fan or steamer base in dishwasher or immerse
in water. These parts may be wiped with a damp cloth to remove residue.
To clean top of steamer base, sprinkle clean, damp sponge with a tea-
spoon of baking soda, and wipe base. Wipe off with clean, damp sponge.
Store your steamer in a dry place, out of the reach of children.
DESCALING THE STEAMER
After several months of use, chemical deposits may build up on the heating
element of your steamer. This process is normal. You should descale
regularly to maintain maximum steam production and extend the life of
your steamer.
To descale the steamer, fill the water reservoir to the maximum level with
equal parts of water and white vinegar (not cider or wine vinegar). Plug into
a socket. Bowl, lid and water reservoir should be in place. Set timer for
25 minutes and begin steaming.
When the timer sounds, unplug and allow to cool completely before
pouring out vinegar.
Rinse the water reservoir several times with fresh, cold water.
We also recommend using the same method to clean the steamer after
steaming seafood.
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