In recent years, many of the household appliances around us are rapidly becoming “smarter”. That is, are equipped with microprocessors and integrated into the smart home system. This process has affected lighting equipment, climate control, sockets and other devices and systems. Such very useful kitchen appliances as multicookers did not stand aside. Consider what a smart multicooker is, what it can do, the criteria for choosing such a technique and the best models today.
How to choose a multicooker?
Product | Beschrijving | Prijs | |
 | Ninja OP500EU | -Afmetingen zonder verpakking (b x h x d)35 x 42 x 38 cm | |
 | Tefal All-in-One CY505E - 3 in 1 Slowcooker | - Afmetingen zonder verpakking (b x h x d)34 x 39,7 x 34 cm | |
 | Crock Pot Express-Pot CR051 | - Afmetingen zonder verpakking (b x h x d)34 x 37,8 x 34 cm |
When choosing a multicooker, there are several factors to consider in order to find the appliance that best suits your cooking needs. Here are some important considerations that can help you make the right choice:
1. Functions and cooking programs. Most multicookers offer a wide range of cooking options, such as pressure cooking, slow cooking, steaming, baking, and sautéing. Decide which cooking functions are essential for you. For example, if you often make stews or soups, a slow cooking function is important. If you want to fry healthily, choose a multicooker with an air fry function.
2. Capacity and capacity. Multicookers come in a variety of sizes, ranging from 4 liters to over 8 liters. The capacity depends on the size of your household and how much you want to cook. For a family of 4 to 6 people, a multicooker with a capacity of 5 to 6 liters is usually sufficient.
3. Automatic programs. Multicookers with preset cooking programs can make cooking easier. Think of programs for rice, soups, meat, yogurt, and even desserts. These programs take the guesswork out of setting the time and temperature.
4. Ease of use and operation. Pay attention to the user-friendliness of the appliance. Does it have a clear digital display? Are the buttons intuitive? Some multicookers have touchscreens and automatic cooking programs, while others have more manual settings. Choose what suits your preference.
5. Safety features. Since multicookers operate at high pressure and temperature, safety is an important factor. Choose a model with multiple safety mechanisms, such as pressure relief, overheat protection, and automatic shut-off.
6. Ease of cleaning. Check to see if the inner pot has a nonstick coating and is dishwasher safe. This makes cleaning after cooking much easier. Dishwasher-safe accessories are also a plus.
7. Price and warranty. Multicookers vary greatly in price, depending on the features, brand, and capacity. Determine your budget and compare the available features within that price range. Also pay attention to the warranty terms. Some brands offer repair options of up to 10 or 15 years.
8. Extra accessories. Some multicookers come with useful accessories, such as a steamer basket, racks, or measuring cups. Consider whether these extras are valuable for the type of dishes you want to prepare.
Multicooker Review
Next, we will take a closer look at several models of smart multicookers that have received the largest number of positive reviews from ordinary users and specialists.
1. Ninja Foodi OP500EU Multicooker – 9 Cooking Functions – 7.5 Liter
The Ninja Foodi OP500EU is a versatile 9-in-1 multicooker with functions such as pressure cooking, slow cooking, baking, roasting, and air frying. Thanks to the unique TenderCrisp technology, you can not only prepare dishes quickly, but also make them perfectly crispy. This multicooker has a generous capacity of 7.5 liters, ideal for preparing complete meals in one pot.
Key Features:
- 9 cooking functions: Including air frying, baking, grilling, slow cooking and pressure cooking.
- TenderCrisp technology: Ensures a crispy outside and juicy inside of dishes.
- Suitable for frozen meals: Defrosts, cooks and crisps dishes in one go.
- User-friendly touchscreen: Easily switch between cooking functions.
- Air crisp: Up to 75% less fat used than traditional frying methods.
- Dishwasher-safe parts: Includes removable cooking pan and ceramic-coated accessories.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Versatility: multiple cooking options in one appliance | Large size: takes up a lot of space on the counter |
| Large capacity: 7.5 liters, suitable for larger families | High price compared to standard kitchen appliances |
| Healthy meals: up to 75% less fat consumption | No transparent lid to view cooking process |
| Pressure cooking function: up to 70% faster than traditional methods | |
| Keep warm function: keeps meals warm for up to 30 minutes |
The Ninja Foodi OP500EU is perfect for people who love to cook but want to use their kitchen space efficiently. Whether you want to prepare a complete meal or heat up a quick dish, this multicooker offers a wide range of possibilities.
2. Tefal All-in-One CY505E – 3 in 1 Slowcooker
The Tefal All-in-One CY505E is a multifunctional 3-in-1 slow cooker, pressure cooker and multicooker. With 25 automatic programs, including functions such as slow cooking, pressure cooking, steaming and baking, you can quickly and easily prepare delicious meals. Thanks to its 6-liter capacity, the appliance is suitable for families of 4 to 6 people. The All-in-One offers versatility, so you can cook at your own pace, whether that’s fast with the pressure cooking function or slow with the slow cooking program.
Key Features:
- 25 automatic programs: Including pressure cooking, slow cooking, steaming and more.
- Up to 80% faster cooking: Save time and energy with the pressure cooking function.
- Adjustable time and temperature: Adjust the cooking process to your own needs.
- 6 liter capacity: Suitable for 4 to 6 people.
- Safe high-pressure technology: Includes 10 safety mechanisms.
- Delayed start function: Set the appliance up to 24 hours in advance.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Versatility: 3-in-1 functions with 25 programs | Limited temperature setting from 70 to 120 degrees |
| Pressure cooking function: saves up to 80% time and energy | No transparent lid to monitor cooking process |
| Large capacity of 6 liters, suitable for families | Large size, takes up a lot of space on the counter |
| 10 safety mechanisms for worry-free cooking | |
| Easy to clean thanks to non-stick coating and dishwasher safe parts |
The Tefal All-in-One CY505E offers a wide range of cooking options and saves both time and energy. It is perfect for those looking for convenience and versatility in one appliance, especially if you like to prepare complete meals quickly and effortlessly.
3. CrockPot Express Pot Pressure, Slow & Multi Cooker 5,6L
The CrockPot Express Pot 5.6L combines the functions of a pressure cooker, slow cooker and multi-cooker in one versatile appliance. Thanks to the pressure cooking technology, you can prepare dishes that normally take hours, such as stews and ribs, in a fraction of the time. The Express Pot has a spacious capacity of 5.7 litres and has 12 programs, with which you can make meat, soups, rice and even yoghurt. The appliance is ideal for quick, easy and healthy meals.
Key Features:
- Pressure Cook: Cook up to 70% faster than traditional methods.
- 12 Cooking Programs: Including Meat/Stew, Rice/Risotto, Yogurt and Soup.
- 5.7 Liter Capacity: Perfect for families of 4-6.
- Versatility: Use the slow cook, steam, sauté and keep warm functions for different cooking styles.
- Convenient Timer: Set the timer and enjoy dishes that are ready when you get home.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Versatility: combines pressure cooking, slow cooking and steaming | No transparent lid to monitor the cooking process |
| Generous 5.7 liter capacity, suitable for families | Limited temperature control from 82°C to 92°C |
| Prepares dishes quickly thanks to the pressure cooking function | No automatic switch-off after cooking process |
| 12 pre-programmed settings for various dishes | |
| Keep warm function to keep dishes warm |
Operating principle of the Multicooker
A multicooker is a versatile kitchen appliance that combines different cooking techniques, such as pressure cooking, slow cooking, baking, steaming and more. The working principle of a multicooker is based on controlled heating and maintaining a constant temperature during the cooking process.
The pressure cooking function seals the lid airtight, creating pressure in the pot. The increased pressure causes the food to cook faster, as the temperature of the water can rise above boiling point. This speeds up the cooking process considerably, while preserving nutrients better.
In slow cooking mode, the multicooker cooks food at a lower temperature for a longer time, resulting in tasty, tender dishes. Steam cooking generates steam to cook food in a healthy way without adding oil.
Most multicookers are equipped with automatic programs and sensors that adjust the temperature and cooking time, so that dishes are always cooked perfectly. This makes a multicooker a convenient and efficient way to prepare various meals, without constant supervision.
Conclusion
In 2024, the multicooker market has evolved with innovative features that make cooking easier and more efficient. This year’s best multicooker strikes the perfect balance between versatility, ease of use, and technology. Top models combine functions such as pressure cooking, slow cooking, air frying, and steaming, while also offering intuitive controls and smart cooking programs.
Models with large capacity, a wide range of preset programs and advanced safety mechanisms have been preferred by consumers. It is also noted that ease of cleaning and energy efficiency are important factors in the selection of the best multicookers.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook who likes to experiment or someone looking for quick and healthy meals, the best multicooker of 2024 offers everything you need to prepare delicious dishes with minimal effort. Choose a model that suits your needs and enjoy the benefits of this multifunctional kitchen appliance.
