How to Preserve Nutrients while Steaming with the Black and Decker HS800 Handy Steamer Plus

Prepping the Steamer

Before using the Black and Decker HS800 Handy Steamer Plus, it is essential to properly set up and prepare the steamer to ensure optimal performance and preserve the nutrients of your food. Follow these steps to get started:

• Cleaning: Begin by thoroughly cleaning all the removable parts of the steamer, including the steaming trays, rice bowl, and water reservoir. Wash them with warm soapy water and rinse them thoroughly to remove any dust or residue that may have accumulated during storage. This step is crucial as it ensures hygienic food preparation and prevents any unwanted flavors from contaminating your dishes.
• Filling the water reservoir: The next step is to fill the water reservoir of the Black and Decker HS800 Handy Steamer Plus. To do this, start by detaching the water reservoir from the base of the steamer. Open the lid of the water reservoir and fill it with clean, filtered water. It is important not to overfill the reservoir, as it may cause the water to overflow during steaming. Once filled, securely place the water reservoir back onto the base of the steamer.

Following these steps will ensure that the Black and Decker HS800 Handy Steamer Plus is properly prepped and ready for use. With a clean steamer and a properly filled water reservoir, you can now proceed to steam your favorite foods while preserving their essential nutrients.

• Additional tips:
• For added flavor, consider adding herbs, spices, or aromatics like ginger or garlic to the water reservoir before steaming.
• Always check the water level throughout the steaming process to avoid the water reservoir running dry, which may damage the steamer.
• Ensure that the steaming trays are properly assembled and securely placed on top of the water reservoir to prevent steam leakage or uneven cooking.
• Refer to the instruction manual for specific steaming times and recommendations for different types of foods.

Steaming Vegetables

Steaming vegetables is a healthy and convenient way to preserve their nutrients while enhancing their natural flavors. With the Black and Decker HS800 Handy Steamer Plus Food Steamer and Rice Cooker, you can easily steam a variety of vegetables to perfection. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to steam different types of vegetables using this handy appliance:

1. Prep the vegetables:

• Wash the vegetables thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or impurities.
• Peel or trim off any tough skins or outer leaves, if needed.
• Cut the vegetables into even-sized pieces to ensure they cook evenly.

2. Set up the steamer:

• Fill the water reservoir of the Black and Decker HS800 Handy Steamer Plus with the recommended amount of water. Refer to the product's manual for specific instructions.
• Place the appropriate steaming basket or tray into the steamer, ensuring it is stable and level.

3. Select the cooking time and settings:

• Refer to the vegetable steaming guide provided in the Black and Decker HS800 Handy Steamer Plus manual for recommended cooking times and settings.
• Adjust the timer and settings on the steamer accordingly.

4. Steam the vegetables:

• Add the prepared vegetables to the steamer basket or tray, distributing them evenly to avoid overcrowding.
• Place the lid securely on the steamer.
• Plug in the Black and Decker HS800 Handy Steamer Plus and power it on.
• Wait for the steamer to heat up and generate steam.
• Once the steamer is ready, carefully place the steamer basket or tray into the steamer and close the lid tightly.
• Allow the vegetables to steam for the recommended cooking time, checking occasionally for doneness.

5. Serve and enjoy:

• When the vegetables are tender and cooked to your liking, carefully remove the basket or tray from the steamer.
• Transfer the steamed vegetables to a serving dish and season with your preferred herbs, spices, or sauces.
• Enjoy the nutritious and flavorful steamed vegetables immediately.

With the Black and Decker HS800 Handy Steamer Plus Food Steamer and Rice Cooker, steaming vegetables is a breeze. Preserve their nutrients and savor their natural goodness with this convenient appliance. Steam a variety of vegetables to perfection, from broccoli and carrots to cauliflower and zucchini, and enjoy them as a wholesome addition to your meals.

• Preserves the nutrients and natural flavors of vegetables
• Convenient and easy to use
• Adjustable settings for different cooking times
• Includes a vegetable steaming guide for reference
• Perfect for steaming a variety of vegetables, from broccoli to zucchini

Steaming Seafood

When it comes to steaming seafood like fish, shrimp, or crab, the Black and Decker HS800 Handy Steamer Plus is an excellent kitchen companion. Steaming not only allows you to cook seafood quickly and easily, but it also helps preserve the natural flavors and nutrients. Here's a guide on how to steam seafood using this handy steamer:

1. Prepare your seafood:

• Choose fresh seafood, ensuring that it is cleaned and deveined.
• Pat the seafood dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps to ensure even cooking.
• Season the seafood with your favorite herbs, spices, or marinade for enhanced flavors. Popular options include lemon juice, garlic, dill, or Old Bay seasoning.

2. Set up the steamer:

• Fill the water reservoir of the Black and Decker HS800 Handy Steamer Plus according to the manufacturer's instructions.
• Place the steaming basket or tray inside the steamer.
• Arrange the seasoned seafood in a single layer on the steaming basket or tray, making sure they aren't overcrowded.

3. Start the steaming process:

• Place the lid on the steamer securely to create a steam-tight seal.
• Turn on the steamer and set the cooking time according to the type and thickness of the seafood. As a general guideline, fish fillets usually take around 8-10 minutes, shrimp around 4-6 minutes, and crab legs around 10-12 minutes.
• Allow the seafood to steam undisturbed until it is cooked through and opaque.

4. Check for doneness:

• Test the seafood for doneness by inserting a fork or toothpick into the thickest part. It should easily flake apart and be opaque throughout. If it's not fully cooked, you can steam it for an additional few minutes.
• Be cautious not to overcook the seafood as it can become rubbery and lose its delicate texture.

5. Serve and enjoy:

• Once the seafood is cooked to perfection, carefully remove it from the steamer using tongs or a spatula.
• Serve the steamed seafood immediately while it's still hot. You can enjoy it as is or add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a burst of citrus.

With the Black and Decker HS800 Handy Steamer Plus, steaming seafood becomes a simple and healthy cooking method. It locks in the flavors and nutrients, ensuring that you have a delicious and nutritious meal. So, get creative with your seasonings, experiment with different types of seafood, and enjoy the benefits of steaming with this versatile steamer.

• Easy and convenient way to cook seafood
• Preserves flavors and nutrients
• Allows for seasoning customization
• Quick and efficient cooking
• Simple cleanup

Steaming Poultry

Steaming poultry is a healthy and delicious way to cook chicken or turkey, as it helps to retain nutrients and natural flavors. With the Black and Decker HS800 Handy Steamer Plus Food Steamer and Rice Cooker, you can easily achieve perfectly steamed poultry every time. Here are some tips and guidelines to preserve nutrients while steaming poultry with this handy appliance:

Marinating Suggestions:

• Prior to steaming, marinating the poultry can enhance its flavor and moisture. Here are some marinating suggestions:
• Combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and your favorite herbs and spices for a simple yet flavorful marinade.
• For a tangy and Asian-inspired twist, mix soy sauce, ginger, honey, and sesame oil for a delicious marinade.
• If you prefer Mediterranean flavors, try marinating the poultry in a mixture of yogurt, lemon zest, oregano, and garlic.

Cooking Guidelines:

• Before placing the poultry in the steamer, ensure that it is thoroughly cleaned and pat it dry with paper towels.
• For optimal results, it is recommended to cut the poultry into smaller pieces, such as chicken breasts or turkey cutlets.
• Place the marinated poultry on the steaming tray of the Black and Decker HS800 Handy Steamer Plus.
• Add the required amount of water to the water reservoir, according to the manufacturer's instructions.
• Cover the steamer with the lid and select the appropriate steaming time and temperature settings.
• Allow the poultry to steam until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for chicken and 180°F (82°C) for turkey.
• Once cooked, carefully remove the poultry from the steamer and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Additional Tips:

• Experiment with different marinades and seasonings to find your favorite flavor combinations.
• Add vegetables or herbs to the steaming tray along with the poultry for added flavor and nutritional value.
• Remember to adjust the steaming time depending on the thickness and size of the poultry pieces.
• Consider using a meat thermometer to ensure that the poultry is fully cooked and safe to eat.

Steaming Rice

If you're looking for a convenient and efficient way to cook rice, the Black and Decker HS800 Handy Steamer Plus Food Steamer and Rice Cooker is the perfect choice. With this handy kitchen appliance, you can easily steam rice to perfection, preserving its nutrients and achieving fluffy results every time. Here's how to do it:

• Measure the rice: Start by measuring the desired amount of rice using the provided measuring cup. For best results, it is recommended to use the cup provided with the Black and Decker HS800 Handy Steamer Plus, as it is calibrated specifically for this appliance.
• Wash the rice: Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water to remove any excess starch. This step is important as it helps prevent the rice from becoming sticky.
• Add water: Add water to the Handy Steamer Plus, following the water-to-rice ratios recommended in the rice cooking guidelines. These ratios may vary depending on the type of rice you are using.
• Place the rice in the steaming bowl: Transfer the washed rice to the steaming bowl of the Handy Steamer Plus. Make sure to distribute it evenly for even cooking.
• Cooking: Set the steaming timer on the Handy Steamer Plus according to the cooking time specified in the rice cooking guidelines. The steamer will automatically switch off once the rice is cooked, ensuring perfectly cooked rice every time.

By using the Black and Decker HS800 Handy Steamer Plus Food Steamer and Rice Cooker, you can achieve fluffy, perfectly cooked rice with minimal effort. The steaming process helps preserve the nutrients in the rice, making it a healthier alternative to other cooking methods. Additionally, the steamer's precise temperature control ensures that the rice is cooked evenly, eliminating the risk of overcooking or undercooking. With this handy appliance, you can enjoy the benefits of steamed rice in just a few simple steps.

Steaming Legumes

When it comes to preserving the nutrients in legumes such as beans or lentils, the Black and Decker HS800 Handy Steamer Plus Food Steamer and Rice Cooker is a reliable appliance to use. Follow these steps to steam various legumes effectively with this handy kitchen tool:

1. Soaking the Legumes:

Beans:

• Rinse the beans thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or impurities.
• Place the beans in a large bowl and cover them with enough water, leaving about 2 inches of water above the beans.
• Soak the beans for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.

Lentils:

• Rinse the lentils under cold water, removing any debris.
• Place the lentils in a sieve or colander and rinse them once again.
• Lentils do not require soaking, so you can proceed with the steaming process.

2. Steaming the Legumes:

Beans:

• Fill the water reservoir of the Black and Decker HS800 Handy Steamer Plus with the recommended amount of water, as indicated in the user manual.
• Place the soaking beans in the steaming bowl of the steamer.
• Set the steaming time and temperature according to the type of beans you are steaming. Refer to the manual for specific guidelines.
• Close the steamer lid and set the timer. The steamer will automatically turn off once the beans are steamed to perfection.

Lentils:

• Add the recommended amount of water to the water reservoir.
• Place the rinsed lentils in the steaming bowl, ensuring they are spread out evenly.
• Adjust the steaming time according to the quantity of lentils and the desired tenderness.
• Close the steamer lid and start the steaming process. The steamer will switch off automatically once the lentils are steamed to your preference.

• Use the steamed legumes immediately in your desired dishes, or let them cool and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for future use.
• Steaming legumes with the Black and Decker HS800 Handy Steamer Plus helps retain their natural flavors and essential nutrients, ensuring a healthy and delicious addition to your meals.

Steamer Maintenance

Educate users on how to clean and maintain the Black and Decker HS800 Handy Steamer Plus, ensuring longevity and optimal performance of the appliance.

Properly maintaining your Black and Decker HS800 Handy Steamer Plus is essential to preserve the nutrients while steaming and to ensure the longevity and optimal performance of the appliance. Here are some maintenance tips to keep your steamer in top shape:

• Regular cleaning: After each use, it is important to clean the steamer thoroughly to remove any food residue or build-up. Follow these steps to clean your steamer:
  • Unplug the steamer and allow it to cool down.
  • Remove the steaming bowls, rice bowl, and any other removable parts.
  • Wash the removable parts with warm, soapy water and a soft sponge or cloth. Rinse them thoroughly and allow them to dry completely.
  • Wipe the base unit with a damp cloth to remove any stains or spills. Do not submerge the base unit in water.
  • Once all the parts are dry, reassemble the steamer.
• Descaling: Over time, mineral deposits, also known as limescale, may build up in your steamer. This can affect the performance and efficiency of the appliance. To descale your steamer, follow these steps:
  • Prepare a mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar.
  • Fill the water reservoir of the steamer with the vinegar-water mixture.
  • Allow the mixture to sit in the reservoir for about 30 minutes to dissolve the limescale.
  • Empty the reservoir and rinse it thoroughly with clean water.
  • Wipe the base unit and other removable parts with a damp cloth to remove any residue.
• Storage: When you are not using the steamer, it is important to store it properly to prevent any damage and ensure its longevity:
  • Make sure the steamer is completely dry before storing it.
  • Remove all the removable parts and store them separately to prevent them from getting lost or damaged.
  • Store the steamer in a dry and clean place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
  • Keep the power cord neatly coiled and secured to avoid any accidents or damage.

By following these maintenance tips, you can keep your Black and Decker HS800 Handy Steamer Plus in excellent condition, ensuring optimal performance and longevity. Regular cleaning and descaling will not only preserve the nutrients while steaming but also extend the lifespan of the appliance, allowing you to enjoy its benefits for years to come.

Recipe Inspiration

Looking for some recipe inspiration to make the most of your Black and Decker HS800 Handy Steamer Plus? This versatile steamer and rice cooker allows you to prepare delicious and healthy meals with ease. Whether you're craving vegetables, seafood, or even desserts, the possibilities are endless. Here are some mouthwatering recipes to try:

1. Steamed Lemon-Herb Salmon

• Place fresh salmon fillets on the steaming tray of your Handy Steamer Plus.
• Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the salmon and sprinkle with your favorite herbs, such as dill, thyme, or parsley.
• Steam for about 10-12 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
• Serve with steamed asparagus and a side of quinoa for a nutritious and flavorful meal.

2. Veggie Stir-Fry Medley

• Chop your favorite vegetables into bite-sized pieces. Broccoli, bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas work well for this recipe.
• Place the vegetables in the steaming bowl of your Handy Steamer Plus and season with garlic, ginger, and a splash of soy sauce.
• Steam for about 8-10 minutes or until the vegetables are tender yet still crisp.
• Serve over steamed brown rice or noodles for a healthy and satisfying vegetarian meal.

3. Steamed Banana Pudding

• In a mixing bowl, mash ripe bananas and add a splash of vanilla extract.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, cornstarch, and sugar.
• Pour the milk mixture over the mashed bananas and whisk until well combined.
• Transfer the mixture to individual ramekins and place them in the steaming tray of your Handy Steamer Plus.
• Steam for about 15-20 minutes or until the pudding is set.
• Allow the pudding to cool before serving, and garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dollop of whipped cream.

Get creative with your Black and Decker HS800 Handy Steamer Plus and explore the endless possibilities it offers for nutritious and delicious meals. From steamed vegetables and seafood to delightful desserts, this handy appliance will become your go-to kitchen companion. Enjoy the convenience and health benefits of steaming with this versatile food steamer and rice cooker.

Troubleshooting Guide

If you are experiencing any issues while using the Black and Decker HS800 Handy Steamer Plus Food Steamer and Rice Cooker, don't worry! Here is a troubleshooting guide to help you resolve common problems that you may encounter:

• No steam is coming out: If you find that no steam is coming out of the steamer, there may be a few reasons for this:
• Make sure that the water reservoir has enough water. Insufficient water can prevent steam from being produced. Refill the reservoir if needed.
• Check that the steaming bowls are properly placed on the base unit. The bowls need to be aligned correctly for the steam to pass through.
• Ensure that the lid is securely closed. The lid should fit tightly on the steaming bowls to allow for proper steaming.
• Inconsistent heating: If you notice inconsistency in the heating of your food, consider the following:
• Check if the water level in the reservoir is adequate. If the water level is too low, it can cause uneven heating of the food. Add more water if necessary.
• Make sure that the steaming bowls are stacked properly. Improperly stacked bowls can cause uneven distribution of heat. Adjust the bowls to ensure they are placed correctly.
• If there are cold spots in your food, try rearranging the food items inside the steaming bowls. This will allow for more even cooking.
• Water leaking from the steamer: If you find water leaking from the steamer, there are a few things you can do:
• Check that the water reservoir is securely in place. Incorrect placement of the reservoir can cause water to leak. Remove and reattach the reservoir, making sure it is fitted properly.
• Inspect the gasket or sealing ring on the lid. If it is damaged or worn out, it may cause water to leak. Replace the gasket if necessary.
• Make sure the lid is closed tightly. A loose lid can result in water leakage. Ensure that the lid is properly closed and locked.

By following these troubleshooting steps, you should be able to resolve common issues that you may encounter while using the Black and Decker HS800 Handy Steamer Plus. Enjoy the convenience of steaming your food with minimal hassle!

Steaming Tips & Tricks

Steaming is a wonderful way to preserve the nutrients in your food while still enjoying delicious and flavorful meals. With the Black and Decker HS800 Handy Steamer Plus Food Steamer and Rice Cooker, you can take your steaming experience to the next level. Here are some valuable tips and tricks to enhance your cooking experience:

• Choose fresh ingredients: When steaming, it's important to start with fresh and high-quality ingredients. This ensures that you're getting the most nutrients and flavors from your food.

• Prep your ingredients properly: Before placing the ingredients in the steamer, make sure to wash and chop them as needed. This allows for even cooking and ensures that the flavors are distributed evenly.

• Layer your ingredients strategically: To save time and energy, consider layering your ingredients in the steamer. Start with the ingredients that require the longest cooking time at the bottom, and layer the ones that cook faster on top. This way, all your ingredients will be perfectly cooked at the same time.

• Add flavor to your steam: Steaming doesn't have to be plain and boring. Enhance the flavors of your food by adding herbs, spices, or citrus zest to the water reservoir of your Black and Decker HS800 Handy Steamer Plus. As the steam rises, it will infuse your food with delightful aromas and flavors.

• Experiment with different marinades: Marinating your food before steaming can add a whole new level of flavor. Try marinating your protein or vegetables in your favorite sauces, dressings, or spices for a few hours prior to steaming. This helps the flavors penetrate the ingredients, resulting in a more satisfying meal.

• Make the most of your cooking time: While your food is steaming, take advantage of the time to multitask in the kitchen. Use this time to prepare side dishes, chop additional vegetables, or even clean up. Maximizing your time in the kitchen will make your cooking experience more efficient and enjoyable.

By following these tips and tricks, you can make the most out of your Black and Decker HS800 Handy Steamer Plus Food Steamer and Rice Cooker. Not only will you preserve the nutrients in your food, but you'll also enjoy flavorful and satisfying meals.