Softiera and Oval Softiera: Combi Insert Cooking Guide
By A by AMC | Smart cookware made to last | Published: 2026-11-02
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to use Softiera and Oval Softiera combi inserts for gentle steaming, draining, and blanching. Step-by-step guidance plus care tips.
Quick answer
Use your Softiera or Oval Softiera as a gentle steaming and draining insert: add a little water to the base pot, place the insert on top, and let steam circulate around the food. For blanching, submerge the insert in boiling water, then lift it out to drain. Always check your pot and insert compatibility before first use.
Why gentle steaming changes the result
Steaming in a combi insert keeps food out of the water, so vegetables stay firm and fish stays moist without added fat. The Softiera and Oval Softiera are designed for this gentle method, plus draining and blanching. The trade-off is speed: steaming takes a few minutes longer than boiling, but you gain better texture and nutrient retention.
The Oval Softiera’s elongated shape suits longer items like asparagus or whole fish, while the round Softiera fits standard pots for everyday vegetables and pasta. Neither insert is a pressure cooker, so plan on conventional stovetop timing.
When draining and blanching make more sense
If you need a quick blanch before freezing or finishing a stir-fry, use the insert as a lift-out basket: boil water in the base pot, lower the insert with food, count seconds to a minute, then lift and drain. This is faster than steaming and preserves bright color. For pasta, cook it in the base pot and use the insert only to drain—do not cook pasta inside the insert unless your pot manual says it is safe, because the insert may not allow enough water circulation.
Step-by-step: using your Softiera insert
- Check pot and insert compatibility: Set the insert into your pot before adding food. It should sit level and stable, with a small gap around the edge for steam to escape. Common mistake: forcing an insert that is too large—this traps steam and can cause boil-over. A proper fit means the insert rests securely and does not wobble.
- Add water to the base pot: Pour in enough water to simmer without touching the insert’s base. For most vegetables, 1–2 cm (½–¾ inch) is enough. Checkpoint: the water level should stay below the insert during cooking; add hot water if it runs low. Never let the pot boil dry—check water level every 10 minutes.
- Prepare and arrange food: Cut vegetables into similar-sized pieces for even steaming. Spread them in a single layer in the insert, leaving small gaps for steam flow. Common mistake: overcrowding, which steams unevenly. If pieces overlap, steam in two batches rather than piling them up.
- Steam with lid on: Bring water to a boil, then reduce to a steady simmer and cover the pot. Steam vegetables for 5–10 minutes depending on thickness; check doneness by piercing with a knife. Checkpoint: lift the lid away from you to avoid steam burns. Start checking early—over-steaming makes vegetables mushy.
- Blanch or drain using the insert: For blanching, lower the insert into boiling water for 30–60 seconds, then lift out and drain. For draining cooked food, pour contents into the insert set over a bowl or sink. Common mistake: using the insert as a colander over a full pot—secure it first. Use oven mitts; the insert gets hot and may drip.
- Cool, clean, and store: Let the insert cool completely before washing. Hand wash with warm soapy water and a soft sponge; dry thoroughly before stacking. Avoid abrasive cleaners that can scratch the surface. Checkpoint: store separately or with a soft cloth between inserts to prevent scratches. Proper drying prevents water spots and keeps the insert ready for next time.
Product facts
- Oval Softiera: Oval Softiera is designed for gentle steaming, draining, and blanching. Its oval shape accommodates longer foods, so you can steam whole fish or asparagus without trimming.
Oval Softiera - Softiera: Softiera is designed for gentle steaming, draining, and blanching. The round insert fits most standard pots, making it a versatile choice for daily vegetables and small batches.
Softiera
