If you’ve ever made tamales at home, you know the steamer matters. The wrong setup leads to soggy bottoms, uneven cooking, or tamales that stick to everything. A proper tamale steamer keeps your tamales elevated above the water, lets steam circulate evenly, and gives you enough room to cook a full batch without cramming them in.
Most tamale steamers are aluminum or stainless steel. Aluminum heats fast and costs less, but it dents easier and some people prefer to avoid it. Stainless steel lasts longer, resists rust, and handles heavy use better. You could also try Bamboo steamer baskets, but those are shallow and better suited for dumplings than a tall stack of tamales.
Size is the biggest decision. A 20-quart steamer handles a family batch of a couple dozen tamales. If you’re cooking for a crowd or doing holiday meal prep, go 40 quarts or bigger, especially if you are also warming fillings or serving everything with vegan tortillas. You can always make fewer tamales in a big steamer, but you can’t cram extras into a small one.
I tested seven steamers across different sizes, materials, and price points to find the best options for every situation.
Best Tamale Steamers
In my quest for the perfect plant-based tamale, I’ve discovered that the secret lies in the filling and how it’s cooked. A good steamer can make all the difference, ensuring even heat distribution and perfect moisture levels.
Below, I’ve gathered the best tamale steamers to help you achieve tamale nirvana right in your kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting to explore the art of tamale-making, these steamers will become your go-to tools for delicious, vegan-friendly results. Pair them with enchilada sauces for a full Mexican spread.
IMUSA Jumbo Steamer
I find the IMUSA Jumbo Steamer an ideal choice for anyone needing to cook large batches of plant-based tamales.
Pros
- Spacious enough to accommodate a heap of tamales.
- Doubles as a stock pot, adding to its versatility.
- Simple to operate and clean.
Cons
- Aluminum construction might not be the preferred choice for everyone.
- Bulky to store if kitchen space is limited.
- Could be better if it included additional steaming racks.
After making a large batch of vegan tamales, I first noticed the sheer capacity of this steamer. Transitioning it into a stockpot was a breeze and useful for my veggie broths and stews.
The heavyweight feel gave me confidence it could withstand regular use, yet it wasn’t so heavy that it became problematic to handle. Cleanup was no hassle – a quick scrub was all it took to get it ready for the next steaming round.
Despite its size, finding the perfect spot in my cabinet was a bit of a jigsaw puzzle. And while I’m a fan of aluminum, some might have reservations about its heat conduction compared to other materials.
ARC 20QT Stainless Steel Tamale Steamer Pot
The ARC 20-quart steamer is a better current pick for small and medium tamale batches. The stainless steel body feels sturdier than thin aluminum, and the water spout makes it easier to top off the pot without taking everything apart.
The 20-quart size is best for family dinners, smaller holiday batches, or anyone who does not want to store a huge pot. It still gives tamales enough height to stand upright, but it is easier to handle than a 40-quart steamer.
Pros
- Stainless steel build
- Water spout helps with longer steaming sessions
- Good size for normal home batches
Cons
- Too small for very large holiday prep
- Costs more than basic aluminum pots
- Needs storage space like any tall steamer
Winco 20qt Stainless Steel Steamer/Pasta Cooker
The Winco 20-quart steamer is a practical stainless option if you want one pot that can handle tamales, vegetables, pasta, and larger boiling jobs. It is less specialized than a traditional tamale pot, but the insert makes it more useful for everyday cooking.
This is a good fit for cooks who do not want a single-purpose steamer taking up cabinet space. For tamales, the key is keeping enough water below the insert and checking the pot during longer batches.
Pros
- Stainless steel pot with steamer insert
- Useful for tamales, pasta, vegetables, and seafood
- Good middle size for home kitchens
Cons
- Not as tall as some dedicated tamale pots
- Higher price than lightweight aluminum steamers
- Insert shape may limit very tall tamale stacks
Oster 3-Quart Steamer
If you’re looking for a compact and versatile kitchen companion, this Oster Steamer is a solid choice for steam-cooking your favorite vegan dishes.
Pros
- Efficient for cooking and re-steaming multiple dishes
- Space-saving design, perfect for smaller kitchens
- Dual-use as a Dutch oven for more cooking options
Cons
- Metal is a bit thin, may not suit those who prefer heavyweight cookware
- Maximum heating temperature limit necessitates careful heat management
- Not induction-compatible, so stovetop use only
The moment I took the Oster Steamer out of the box, I was taken by its sleek stainless steel design. It’s a real space-saver, just right for my cozy kitchen. The glass lid lets me watch the quinoa simmering below without losing steam.
Switching gears from steamer to Dutch oven was a breeze, too. I whipped up a hearty vegan chili that infused my home with inviting aromas. The lightweight nature of the pot made it easy to transfer from stovetop to table.
After each use, cleanup felt effortless. My only niggle is that you’ve got to keep an eye on the heat because it’s not meant to exceed 400°F. Also, if your stovetop is induction, you’ll have to look elsewhere, as this steamer won’t work with them.
Martha Stewart’s Enamel Steamer Pot
This steamer pot is a fantastic choice for anyone who loves cooking plant-based meals in large quantities.
Pros
- Spacious enough for a heap of veggies and tamales at once
- The enamel on steel ensures even heating and a breeze to clean
- It’s versatile – works on all stovetops and is oven safe too
Cons
- It’s on the heavier side, which might make storage challenging
- The surface can scratch if you’re not careful
- Hand wash only, no quick cycles in the dishwasher for this beauty
I just had the pleasure of using Martha Stewart’s Enamel Steamer Pot for my weekly meal prep, and it certainly lived up to the task. Steaming veggies was a pure joy, as the stainless steel insert held them comfortably away from the water.
There’s a real art to steaming grains, and this pot nailed it with heat distribution that seemed almost intuitive. Thanks to those sturdy handles, the hands-on approach of lifting and pouring wasn’t a hassle, though you’ll want to grab those oven mitts.
Cleaning up was a task I dreaded, but it was surprisingly straightforward. The enamel finish is wonderfully non-stick, making it incredibly easy to rinse and wipe away any residue.
ARC 24QT Tamale Steamer
I’d recommend the ARC Tamale Steamer for its clever design and versatility in the kitchen, especially for those serious about their tamales.
Pros
- Easy water refill due to the spout, without disturbing the cooking process
- Separates foods effortlessly with the divider
- Substantial size suitable for large batches
Cons
- Not compatible with induction stovetops
- Somewhat heavy which can be cumbersome for some users
- May be too large for smaller families or kitchens
I recently got my hands on this steamer, and it’s quite the game-changer. The construction is solid, with a shiny stainless-steel exterior that’s a breeze to clean. The refill spout on the side was particularly handy.
What’s quite ingenious about this steamer is the included divider. It’s perfect for keeping different vegetarian tamales separate, ensuring flavors don’t mix and everything cooks perfectly.
A downside for those with induction stoves is that this pot isn’t compatible. Moreover, due to its considerable size and steel build, it’s heavier, so be prepared for a bit of a workout when it’s full.
Imusa Steamer Set
This steamer set is essential for those passionate about cooking plant-based feasts efficiently.
Pros
- Quick and even heating makes cooking a breeze.
- The removable rack boosts its versatility for various dishes.
- Constructed to withstand heavy usage and last.
Cons
- The lid might not seal perfectly, potentially affecting steaming.
- Some users have reported receiving warped lids.
- Weighing over 6 pounds, it’s not the lightest option.
Since my first use, the Imusa Aluminum Steamer has impressed me with its quick and consistent performance when steaming veggies. The aluminum build swiftly conducts heat, meaning I can prepare my food without long waits.
Handling the steamer feels solid due to its heavy-duty nature. I’ve used it on various stovetops, including ceramic and electric, without issues. The removable insert is a fantastic feature, allowing me to use it as a regular pot.
However, after some uses, I did notice the lid doesn’t seem to fit perfectly; this appeared to let a little steam escape. Also, the weight is not trivial. Moving it around when full requires more effort.
READ NEXT: Best Electric Pressure Cooker: Guide to Effortless Cooking
Buying Guide
Size and Capacity
If you only make tamales once or twice a year, buy more capacity than you think you need. A taller pot gives steam room to move and keeps the top layer from getting crowded. For small kitchens, a 20-quart pot is the sweet spot. For holidays or freezer prep, a 32-quart or 40-quart steamer is much easier to live with.
I always consider the size and capacity of a tamale steamer when making a purchase. It needs to match the quantity I typically cook.
- Small (6-12 tamales): Ideal for individuals or small families.
- Medium (12-24 tamales): Good for larger families or small gatherings.
- Large (24+ tamales): Best for parties or meal prepping.
Material
Aluminum steamers are light and cheap, which is why so many families use them for tamales. Stainless steel is heavier, but it feels steadier on the stove and usually lasts longer. If you cook acidic sauces in the same pot, stainless steel is the safer long-term choice.
The material of the steamer affects heat distribution and longevity.
- Stainless Steel: Durable and has even heat distribution.
- Aluminum: Lightweight and heats up quickly but may not wear as well.
- Silicone: An innovative choice that is flexible and often collapsible.
Features
Some key features can make or break the functionality of a steamer.
- Lid: A tight-fitting lid retains steam for even cooking.
- Rack Height: Ensure there’s ample space between the water and the rack to avoid soggy tamales.
- Handles: Heat-resistant handles provide safety.
Ease of Cleaning
I look for steamers that are easy to clean.
- Dishwasher Safe: Saves time and hassle.
- Non-stick Surface: Makes handwashing simpler.
Compatibility
Lastly, the steamer must work with my existing kitchen setup.
- Stovetop Compatibility: Must be suitable for my type of stovetop, whether it’s induction, gas, or electric.
- Oven-Safe: Some recipes call for an oven finish, so oven-safe materials are a plus.
Remember, the best tamale steamer for you is one that suits your individual needs and cooking habits.
