Steba DG 2 Steamer Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

Thank you for choosing the Steba DG 2 Steamer. This appliance is designed to provide a healthy and efficient way to cook a variety of foods using steam. Please read this instruction manual carefully before first use to ensure safe operation and optimal performance. Keep this manual for future reference.

2. Important Safety Instructions

When using electrical appliances, basic safety precautions should always be followed, including the following:

• Read all instructions before operating the appliance.
• Do not touch hot surfaces. Use handles or knobs.
• To protect against electrical shock, do not immerse the cord, plugs, or the base unit in water or other liquid.
• Close supervision is necessary when any appliance is used by or near children.
• Unplug from outlet when not in use and before cleaning. Allow to cool before putting on or taking off parts.
• Do not operate any appliance with a damaged cord or plug, or after the appliance malfunctions or has been damaged in any manner. Contact customer service for examination, repair, or adjustment.
• The use of accessory attachments not recommended by the appliance manufacturer may cause injuries.
• Do not use outdoors.
• Do not let cord hang over edge of table or counter, or touch hot surfaces.
• Do not place on or near a hot gas or electric burner, or in a heated oven.
• Extreme caution must be used when moving an appliance containing hot oil or other hot liquids.
• Always attach plug to appliance first, then plug cord into the wall outlet. To disconnect, turn any control to "off", then remove plug from wall outlet.
• Do not use appliance for other than intended use.
• This appliance is for household use only.
• Ensure the water reservoir is filled to the appropriate level before operation.
• Steam is hot. Exercise caution when opening the lid or handling steaming baskets during or after operation.

3. Product Overview and Components

Familiarize yourself with the parts of your Steba DG 2 Steamer:

• Base Unit with Heating Element and Control Panel
• Water Reservoir
• Water Level Indicator
• External Water Refill Opening
• Drip Tray
• Steaming Baskets (2 transparent, with removable bottoms)
• Lid
• Rice Bowl Insert

Figure 1: The Steba DG 2 Steamer fully assembled, showing the base unit, two transparent steaming baskets, and the lid with a handle.

Figure 2: Front view of the steamer, highlighting the control panel with LCD display and function buttons, alongside the water level indicator.

Figure 3: Detailed view of the control panel, featuring the LCD screen, power button, timer button, and five automatic program icons for various food types.

Figure 4: The black rice bowl insert, designed to fit within the steaming baskets for cooking rice or other grains.

4. Setup and First Use

1. Unpacking: Carefully remove all packaging materials and inspect the appliance for any damage.
2. Cleaning: Before first use, wash the steaming baskets, lid, drip tray, and rice bowl in warm, soapy water. Rinse thoroughly and dry. Wipe the base unit with a damp cloth. Do not immerse the base unit in water.
3. Assembly:
   • Place the drip tray onto the base unit.
   • Stack the desired number of steaming baskets onto the drip tray. The baskets have removable bottoms, allowing for variable cooking space (3 to 6 liters).
   • Place the lid on top of the uppermost steaming basket.
4. Filling the Water Reservoir: Fill the water reservoir with clean water up to the MAX level indicated on the water level indicator. You can use the external water refill opening for convenience.
5. Initial Run (Optional but Recommended): To remove any manufacturing residues, run the steamer empty for about 15 minutes with water in the reservoir. Discard the water afterwards.

Figure 5: Side view illustrating the external water refill opening, which allows for adding water during operation without disassembling the baskets.

5. Operating Instructions

The Steba DG 2 Steamer features an LCD display and intuitive controls for easy operation.

5.1. Control Panel Overview

Figure 6: Detailed view of the control panel, featuring the LCD screen, power button, timer button, and five automatic program icons for various food types.

• LCD Display: Shows remaining cooking time and selected program.
• Power Button (ⓘ): Turns the appliance on/off.
• Timer Button (⏱): Adjusts cooking time manually.
• Automatic Programs: Five pre-set programs for different food types (e.g., vegetables, fish, rice, chicken).

5.2. General Steaming Procedure

1. Ensure the water reservoir is filled to the appropriate level.
2. Place your food into the steaming baskets. For best results, arrange food in a single layer and avoid overcrowding. Use the rice bowl for rice or other grains.
3. Stack the baskets and place the lid securely.
4. Plug the appliance into a suitable power outlet.
5. Press the Power button (ⓘ) to turn on the steamer.
6. Select a Program:
   • Automatic Program: Press the desired food icon (e.g., fish, vegetables). The display will show the pre-set cooking time.
   • Manual Program: Press the Timer button (⏱) repeatedly to set your desired cooking time.
7. The steamer will begin heating and steaming. The LCD will count down the remaining time.
8. Automatic Keep-Warm: After the set cooking time expires, the steamer will automatically switch to a keep-warm function with reduced steam production. A signal sound will indicate the end of the cooking cycle.
9. To stop operation, press the Power button (ⓘ).
10. Carefully remove the lid (away from your face to avoid steam burns) and then the steaming baskets. Use oven mitts if necessary.
11. Unplug the appliance from the power outlet after use.

5.3. Adding Water During Operation

If the water level becomes too low during cooking, the steamer may alert you or stop steaming. You can add water using the external refill opening on the side of the base unit (refer to Figure 5). Pour water slowly and carefully to avoid splashing hot water or steam.

5.4. Using the Rice Bowl

Place the rice bowl into one of the steaming baskets. Add rice and water according to your recipe or rice-to-water ratio. Cover with the lid and steam as usual. The rice bowl is ideal for cooking grains, small portions, or foods that require containment.

6. Cooking Guide and Tips

Steaming times can vary based on the type, size, and quantity of food, as well as personal preference. The following are general guidelines:

• Vegetables: Most vegetables (broccoli, carrots, green beans) take 8-15 minutes. Firmer vegetables like potatoes may take longer (20-30 minutes).
• Fish/Seafood: Fillets typically cook in 8-12 minutes. Shrimp and other small seafood cook faster, around 3-7 minutes.
• Chicken: Thinly sliced chicken breast or small pieces can take 15-25 minutes. Ensure chicken is cooked through.
• Rice: Use the provided rice bowl. Follow package instructions for water-to-rice ratio and cooking time, typically 20-30 minutes.

Tips for Best Results:

• Cut food into uniform pieces for even cooking.
• Do not overcrowd the baskets; allow steam to circulate freely.
• Place foods that require longer cooking times in the lower basket, closer to the steam source.
• Check food for doneness periodically.
• Season food after steaming to retain moisture and flavor.

7. Maintenance and Cleaning

Regular cleaning and maintenance will prolong the life of your steamer.

7.1. Daily Cleaning

1. Always unplug the appliance and allow it to cool completely before cleaning.
2. Wash the lid, steaming baskets, drip tray, and rice bowl in warm, soapy water. These parts are generally dishwasher safe (top rack recommended), but hand washing is preferred to maintain clarity and extend their lifespan.
3. Wipe the base unit with a damp cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or scourers. Never immerse the base unit in water.
4. Ensure all parts are thoroughly dry before storing.

7.2. Descaling

Mineral deposits (limescale) can build up on the heating element over time, especially in areas with hard water. Descaling is recommended every 1-3 months, depending on usage and water hardness.

1. Ensure the appliance is unplugged and cool.
2. Fill the water reservoir with a mixture of white vinegar and water (e.g., 1 part vinegar to 2 parts water) up to the MAX level.
3. Do not place any food or baskets on the base unit during descaling.
4. Plug in the appliance and run it for approximately 20-30 minutes.
5. Unplug and allow the solution to cool completely.
6. Pour out the descaling solution. Rinse the water reservoir thoroughly with fresh water several times to remove any vinegar residue.
7. Run the steamer with clean water for 10 minutes to flush out any remaining descaling agent.

Note: Some users prefer using distilled water for daily operation to minimize limescale buildup.

8. Troubleshooting

9. Specifications

10. Warranty and Support

For warranty information, please refer to the documentation provided with your purchase or contact your retailer. Steba provides quality products, and any issues should be directed to their official customer support channels or the point of purchase.

Information regarding the availability of spare parts is not explicitly provided in the product details. Please contact Steba customer service or your retailer for inquiries about spare parts.