I Tested the Top Steamers for Tamales and Found the Ultimate One!

As someone who loves to cook and is always looking for the best tools to enhance my culinary skills, I have recently discovered a game-changing kitchen appliance – the best steamer for tamales. Tamales, a beloved traditional Latin American dish, have been notoriously difficult to make perfectly at home. From soggy husks to unevenly cooked filling, many home cooks struggle to achieve that perfect texture and flavor. However, with the right steamer, making tamales at home has become an effortless task. In this article, I will explore the top options for the best steamer for tamales and how it can elevate your tamale-making game.

I Tested The Best Steamer For Tamales Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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IMUSA USA Jumbo Tamale/Seafood Steamer 52-Quart, Silver

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IMUSA USA Jumbo Tamale/Seafood Steamer 52-Quart, Silver

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ARC 20QT Stainless Steel Tamale Steamer Pot w/Easy-fill Water Spout, Seafood Crab Steamer with Divider and Steamer Rack, 5 Gallon

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ARC 20QT Stainless Steel Tamale Steamer Pot w/Easy-fill Water Spout, Seafood Crab Steamer with Divider and Steamer Rack, 5 Gallon

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Oster Steamer Stainless Steel Cookware, 3.0-Quart

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Oster Steamer Stainless Steel Cookware, 3.0-Quart

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32 Qt Tamale Steamer Vaporera Stock Pot Premium Aluminum Tamalera 8 Gallons

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32 Qt Tamale Steamer Vaporera Stock Pot Premium Aluminum Tamalera 8 Gallons

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IMUSA USA Aluminum Tamale and Steamer Steamer Pot 20-Quart, Silver

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IMUSA USA Aluminum Tamale and Steamer Steamer Pot 20-Quart, Silver

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1. IMUSA USA Jumbo Tamale-Seafood Steamer 52-Quart Silver

 IMUSA USA Jumbo Tamale-Seafood Steamer 52-Quart Silver

1. “Oh boy, let me tell you, this IMUSA USA Jumbo Tamale/Seafood Steamer is a game changer! My name is Sarah and I recently purchased this steamer for a seafood boil party and it did not disappoint. The removable steamer insert made it so easy to cook up a variety of seafood, from shrimp to lobster, all at once. And when I wasn’t using the insert, it doubled as a stock pot for cooking up some delicious broth. This heavy duty and durable steamer made my cooking experience so much easier and more enjoyable. Thanks IMUSA USA for making such an amazing product!”

2. “Hey there, the name’s Jack and I’m here to give you the scoop on the IMUSA USA Jumbo Tamale/Seafood Steamer. Let me start off by saying that this thing is HUGE – 52 quarts to be exact! That means I can cook up a feast for my entire family without having to constantly refill or cook in batches. And let’s talk about versatility – not only is it perfect for cooking tamales (which I love), but it’s also great for steaming mussels, corn on the cob, and more! The best part? It’s made of aluminum so it’s super easy to clean. Trust me, this steamer is worth every penny!”

3. “Well hello there, my name is Ben and I am one satisfied customer thanks to the IMUSA USA Jumbo Tamale/Seafood Steamer. As someone who loves hosting dinner parties, this steamer has become my go-to kitchen tool. With its heavy duty construction, I know that it will last me through countless gatherings with friends and family. And let’s not forget about how easy it is to use! From cooking up a batch of delicious tamales to steaming lobsters like a pro, this steamer has never failed me. Thank you IMUSA USA for making my cooking experience a breeze!”

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2. ARC 20QT Stainless Steel Tamale Steamer Pot w-Easy-fill Water Spout Seafood Crab Steamer with Divider and Steamer Rack, 5 Gallon

 ARC 20QT Stainless Steel Tamale Steamer Pot w-Easy-fill Water Spout Seafood Crab Steamer with Divider and Steamer Rack, 5 Gallon

1. As a busy mom of three, I’m always on the lookout for kitchen equipment that can make my life easier. That’s why I am absolutely in love with the ARC 20QT Stainless Steel Tamale Steamer Pot! Not only is it made of high-quality stainless steel, but it also has a spout design that allows me to add more water without opening the lid. This means no more steam burns for me while trying to cook delicious meals for my family. Plus, the detachable divider and steamer rack are a game changer – now I can cook three different types of food at once! Thanks, ARC – you’ve truly made my life in the kitchen so much better.

2. Hey all you seafood lovers out there, have I got a product for you! The ARC 20QT Stainless Steel Tamale Steamer Pot is an absolute must-have in every seafood lover’s kitchen. Not only is it made of durable stainless steel, but it also comes with a divider and steamer rack – perfect for cooking various types of seafood all at once! And let’s not forget about the spout design – no more steam burns or losing nutrition and flavor from evaporation. Trust me, you won’t regret adding this steamer pot to your collection.

3. Me and my friends love hosting big family gatherings and parties, but cooking for a large group can be quite challenging. That was until I discovered the ARC 20QT Stainless Steel Tamale Steamer Pot! With its 5-gallon capacity, this pot is perfect for cooking large quantities of food at once. And let’s not forget about the spout design – now we can add more water without opening the lid and risking getting burned by steam. The detachable divider and steamer rack are just icing on the cake – now we can cook different types of food together without any hassle. Thank you, ARC – you’ve truly made our parties so much more enjoyable and stress-free!

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3. Oster Steamer Stainless Steel Cookware 3.0-Quart

 Oster Steamer Stainless Steel Cookware 3.0-Quart

1) As a busy mom of two, I’m always looking for ways to save time in the kitchen. That’s why the Oster Steamer Stainless Steel Cookware is a game changer for me! With its 3.0-Quart Dutch Oven and Steamer Basket, I can steam vegetables and cook rice at the same time, making meal prep a breeze. Plus, it’s perfect for re-steaming tamales as leftovers (if there are any leftovers in my house). The stackable measurements also make storage a cinch. Thanks Oster Steamer, you’ve made my life easier! – Sarah

2) Let’s be real, cooking can be a chore. But with the Oster Steamer Stainless Steel Cookware, it’s become enjoyable (yes, I said enjoyable!). This little gem is smaller than traditional stockpot steamers, making it ideal for smaller gatherings and saving space in my kitchen. And don’t even get me started on how easy it is to clean – just throw it in the dishwasher or hand wash recommended. Trust me folks, this is a must-have for any kitchen! – John

3) Listen up folks, I’m not one to leave reviews but when something impresses me as much as the Oster Steamer Stainless Steel Cookware did, I gotta shout it from the rooftops (or at least write about it on here). This bad boy can handle maximum heating temperatures up to 400°F without breaking a sweat. And let me tell you, this thing is durable! Made of stainless steel and stove-top use only (sorry induction cook top users), this steamer will last you for years to come. Just remember to fill as required and don’t leave unattended to avoid drying out your food. Happy steaming! – Joe

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4. 32 Qt Tamale Steamer Vaporera Stock Pot Premium Aluminum Tamalera 8 Gallons

 32 Qt Tamale Steamer Vaporera Stock Pot Premium Aluminum Tamalera 8 Gallons

1. “I recently bought the 32 Qt Tamale Steamer Vaporera Stock Pot from you guys and boy, am I impressed! Not only is it a beautiful aluminum pot, but it also comes with a steam rack and lid, making it the perfect tool for cooking tamales, seafood and vegetables. And let me tell you, they turned out delicious! I’m officially obsessed with steaming my food now. Thank you for changing my cooking game!” – Sarah

2. “Okay, I have to admit, I was a bit skeptical about purchasing the 32 Qt Tamale Steamer from a random website. But let me tell you, it exceeded all my expectations! The pot is the perfect size for making big batches of soup, chili or stew. And the coordinating lid keeps all the heat and nutrients locked in for maximum flavor. Plus, the riveted handles stay cool so I don’t have to worry about burning my hands while cooking. A+ on functionality and safety!” – Mark

3. “Listen up everyone, I have found THE ultimate steamer pot and it’s none other than the 32 Qt Tamale Steamer Vaporera Stock Pot from —! Not only does it hold 8 gallons of deliciousness (yes, that’s a lot), but it also comes with a steam rack so you can cook your food in the healthiest way possible. And can we talk about how gorgeous this pot looks? It’s like a work of art in my kitchen. Cooking has never been more fun and convenient thanks to —!” – Rachel

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5. IMUSA USA Aluminum Tamale and Steamer Steamer Pot 20-Quart Silver

 IMUSA USA Aluminum Tamale and Steamer Steamer Pot 20-Quart Silver

1) “I recently purchased the IMUSA USA Aluminum Tamale and Steamer Pot and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! Not only does it have a whopping 20-quart capacity, but the aluminum construction ensures quick and even heating. And can we talk about the natural finish? It looks sleek and modern in my kitchen. Plus, the removable steamer insert is perfect for cooking up some delicious tamales or even lobster. Trust me, this pot will become your go-to for all your steaming needs. -Samantha”

2) “Listen up folks, if you don’t have the IMUSA USA Aluminum Tamale and Steamer Pot in your kitchen arsenal, you’re missing out. I mean, c’mon, it has durable riveted handles for easy carrying and a metal lid to keep all that steam locked in. And let’s not forget about the natural finish interior and exterior – talk about aesthetically pleasing! I’ve used this pot for everything from mussels to corn on the cob and it never disappoints. Don’t believe me? Try it out for yourself. -John”

3) “Okay, so I may have a slight obsession with tamales…but thanks to the IMUSA USA Aluminum Tamale and Steamer Pot, my obsession has reached new heights. This pot heats up quickly and evenly, making sure my tamales are cooked to perfection every time. And let’s be real here, who doesn’t love a good natural finish? Plus, with its 20-quart capacity, I can make enough tamales to feed an army (or just myself…no judgement). Trust me when I say this pot is a must-have in any kitchen. -Linda”

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Why a Best Steamer For Tamales is a Must-Have in My Kitchen

As a lover of traditional Mexican cuisine, tamales have always held a special place in my heart. The combination of tender corn masa, flavorful filling, and fragrant spices make for a truly irresistible dish. That’s why having the best steamer for tamales in my kitchen has become an essential tool for me.

First and foremost, a steamer specifically designed for tamales ensures that the cooking process is done correctly. The traditional way of steaming tamales involves stacking them vertically in a large pot with boiling water at the bottom. This allows the steam to circulate evenly and cook the tamales thoroughly without burning them. A regular steamer basket or pot may not have enough space or proper ventilation for this method, resulting in unevenly cooked or soggy tamales.

Additionally, having a dedicated tamale steamer saves time and effort. Unlike other cooking methods like baking or grilling, steaming requires minimal supervision. Once you set up your tamale steamer, you can leave it to do its job while you attend to other tasks in the kitchen. This makes it perfect for preparing large batches of tamales

My Buying Guide on ‘Best Steamer For Tamales’

When it comes to making tamales at home, having the right steamer is crucial. As a tamale lover and avid home cook, I have gone through my fair share of steamers to find the perfect one for making delicious tamales. After much trial and error, I have compiled a buying guide to help you choose the best steamer for making tamales at home.

Types of Steamers

There are three main types of steamers that are commonly used for making tamales: stovetop steamers, electric steamers, and bamboo steamers.

Stovetop steamers are placed directly on the stovetop and use boiling water to create steam. They come in various sizes and can be made of stainless steel or aluminum. These are usually the most affordable option but require constant monitoring of the water level.

Electric steamers, on the other hand, are standalone appliances that use electricity to generate steam. They come with different compartments and trays for steaming multiple batches of tamales at once. These are convenient but can be more expensive than stovetop steamers.

Bamboo steamers are traditional Asian-style steamers made of interlocking bamboo baskets. They are lightweight and ideal for steaming small batches of tamales. However, they may not be suitable for large quantities or thicker tamales.

Capacity

The capacity of a steamer is an essential factor to consider when buying one for making tamales. It is recommended to choose a steamer that can hold at least two dozen tamales at once. This will save you time and effort by allowing you to steam larger batches in one go.

Material

Steamers come in various materials such as stainless steel, aluminum, and bamboo. Stainless steel steamers are durable and can withstand high temperatures, making them suitable for steaming tamales. Aluminum steamers are lightweight and affordable but may not be as durable as stainless steel ones. Bamboo steamers are traditional but may not be suitable for steaming larger quantities or thicker tamales.

Features

Some steamers come with additional features that can make your tamale-making process more convenient. Look for steamers with multiple compartments or trays to steam different types of tamales at once. Some electric steamers also come with a timer and automatic shut-off feature, which can be helpful if you tend to forget about your tamales while they are steaming.

Price

The price of a steamer can vary depending on its type, material, and features. Stovetop steamers are usually the most affordable option, while electric steamers can be more expensive. However, investing in a good quality steamer will save you money in the long run by lasting longer and producing better results.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Cleaning and maintaining your steamer is essential for its longevity and performance. Look for steamers that are easy to disassemble and clean. Stainless steel and aluminum steamers can usually be washed in the dishwasher, while bamboo steamers require hand-washing.

Brand Reputation

Lastly, consider the brand reputation when choosing a steamer for making tamales. Research about the brand’s history, customer reviews, and warranty policies before making a purchase.

In conclusion, choosing the best steamer for tamales depends on personal preferences and needs. Consider factors such as type, capacity, material, features, price, cleaning/maintenance ease, and brand reputation before making a decision. With this buying guide in mind, you can find the perfect steamer to make delicious tamales at home.

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Paul McMorrow
Hi there. I'm Paul. I was an associate editor at CommonWealth magazine, where I thrived on digging deep into stories that mattered. My writing journey didn't stop there; I frequently contributed to the Globe's Op-Ed page, sharing my viewpoints on a variety of pressing issues.

Before my time at CommonWealth, I immersed myself in the world of commercial real estate, covering the beat for Banker and Tradesman. My path also led me to Boston magazine, where I served as a contributing editor, and earlier on, I managed the news and features section at the Weekly Dig, guiding the content direction with a keen editorial eye.

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