CASTA Electric Dim Sum Steamer 38 Litre with Bamboo Containers

A dim sum steamer generates moist, even heat by boiling water inside a sealed tank and directing the steam through perforated trays. The method cooks delicate dumplings, buns and vegetables without drying them, preserving texture and flavour while keeping the kitchen cooler than a hob or oven would.

The operator fills the pressed stainless-steel tank with water—either automatically or manually—then loads bamboo containers or gastronorm trays onto the perforated metal plate. Once the lid is closed, the sheathed heating elements raise the water to boiling point. Steam rises through the perforations, enveloping the food in a gentle, consistent heat that cooks it quickly and evenly. A gasket around the lid traps the steam, reducing heat loss and cutting energy use. When the water level falls below the minimum mark, a safety system cuts power to the elements, preventing damage and eliminating fire risk.

To use the steamer, first ensure the tank is filled to the correct level. Place the bamboo baskets or gastronorm containers on the perforated plate, then close the lid. Select the desired cooking time and start the cycle. During operation, the unit maintains a steady steam flow; an overflow pipe prevents water from rising above the safe limit. After cooking, the cool-touch handles allow safe removal of the hot baskets. The unit can be left on standby for the next batch or switched off and drained.

The entire cabinet is constructed from AISI 304 stainless steel with a Scotch Brite finish, chosen for corrosion resistance and ease of cleaning. The work surface is rounded and 1.2 mm thick, while the cooking tank has pressed, rounded corners that eliminate crevices where food debris could collect. High-efficiency sheathed heating elements sit inside the tank, and the legs are height-adjustable for levelling on uneven floors.

Controls are minimal: a power switch, a timer and a water-level indicator. The power switch energises the heating elements only when the tank is full, and the timer sets the duration of the steam cycle. The water-level indicator shows when manual refill is needed.

A 38-litre capacity corresponds to one full-size gastronorm tray (GN 1/1) plus one third-size tray (GN 1/3), allowing simultaneous cooking of different items. The 12 kW power rating requires a three-phase, 400 V supply, typical of professional kitchens with heavy electrical loads. The footprint of 400 mm depth by 900 mm width fits standard worktop runs, while the 850 mm height keeps the unit within reach of most operators without stooping.

Cleaning is straightforward: the stainless-steel surfaces wipe clean with a damp cloth, and the rounded corners of the tank prevent residue build-up. The perforated plate and bamboo containers can be removed and washed separately. The overflow pipe and water inlet should be checked periodically to ensure they are free of scale or debris.

The steamer is supplied with bamboo containers sized to match the internal dimensions. No other variants or accessories are listed for this model.

The product is categorised under electric steamers in the CASTA professional catering range.