XJ Group XJ-92214/II - User Manual

This document describes the XJ-92214/II Steam Cooker, a versatile appliance designed for healthy and flavourful cooking through steam heat.

Function Description:

The Steam Cooker is an electrical appliance that uses steam to cook a variety of foods, including fish, fowl, vegetables, rice, and quick breads. It operates by heating water in a reservoir to produce steam, which then cooks the food placed in the steaming bowls. The "Instant Steam" technology ensures that steam is produced in less than a minute. The appliance is designed to retain vitamins and minerals in foods, offering a healthier cooking alternative compared to methods that use added oil or fat. It allows for complete meals to be cooked without the need for greasy pots and pans, simplifying cleanup.

Important Technical Specifications:

• Model: XJ-92214/II
• Power: 400 Watts
• Timer: 60 minutes, with automatic shut-off when the selected time is reached.
• Water Level Shut-off: The unit automatically shuts off when the water level is depleted for safety.
• Steaming Bowls: Multi-tier design with two stackable transparent plastic bowls of different volumes.
• Separator Ring: Provides stability and sealing when both bowls are used.
• Water Reservoir: Holds water for steaming; only tap water should be used.
• Indicator Light: A red light illuminates when the steamer unit is ON.

Usage Features:

• Health Benefits: Retains higher nutritive value, colours, and texture of food. Offers a healthier option by avoiding butter and fats.
• Versatility: Can be used for a wide range of foods including vegetables, meats, seafood, rice, eggs, poultry, fruit, and pasta.
• Cooking Control: The 60-minute timer allows for precise cooking times and automatic shut-off.
• Multi-tier Design: Allows for cooking up to two baskets at a time, enabling combinations of steaming and poaching trays for single foods or complete meals.
• Ease of Use:
  • Place the appliance on a stable, level surface away from walls and overhanging cupboards.
  • Pour cold tap water into the Water Reservoir to the Max level for foods requiring 13-60 minutes steaming time, or Min level for less than 13 minutes.
  • Food can be cooked using a large steaming bowl alone or two steaming bowls. When using two bowls, place larger pieces of food with longer cooking times in the lower bowl.
  • Cover with the lid and plug into a wall outlet.
  • Set the timer for the recommended time; the red indicator light will turn on, and steaming will begin quickly.
  • Condensation during steaming is normal.
  • The timer operates independently of the power plug, so ensure the indicator light is on when setting the timer.
  • When steaming is complete, the timer automatically turns the steamer OFF.
  • Unplug the appliance and allow it to cool completely before removing parts.
  • Never operate the cooker without water.
• Helpful Hints:
  • Steaming times may need to be increased for high-altitude cooking.
  • Times provided in charts and recipes are guides; adjust based on food size, spacing, freshness, and personal preference.
  • A single layer of food steams faster than multiple layers; larger quantities require longer steaming times.
  • For best results, use food pieces of similar size. If layering is necessary, place smaller pieces on top.
  • Arrange food with spaces between pieces for maximum steam flow.
  • When steaming large quantities, remove the lid halfway through and turn pieces with long-handled utensils, protecting hands from steam with oven mitts.
  • Do not add salt or seasoning to the Steaming Bowl until after cooking to prevent damage to the heating element.
  • Never steam frozen meat or poultry; always thaw completely first.
  • All stated times are based on using cold water in the Water Reservoir.
• Using Two Steaming Bowls:
  • Always place the largest pieces of food with the longest cooking time in the lower bowl.
  • If steaming different foods, ensure their flavours complement each other as condensation will drip from the stacking bowl.
  • When steaming meat/poultry and vegetables, always place meat/poultry in the lower bowl to prevent juices from dripping onto other foods.
  • Steaming times for food in the stacking bowl are usually slightly longer, so allow an extra 5 minutes.
  • If foods have different cooking times, start with the longest cooking food in the lower bowl. Once the remaining time matches the shortest cooking time, carefully remove the lid and place the stacking basket on top, then cover and continue cooking.

Maintenance Features:

• Cooling: Always allow the Food Steamer to cool completely before washing or storing.
• Cleaning:
  • Before first use, clean all parts.
  • NEVER immerse the base, cord, or plug in water or any other liquid.
  • Unplug from the wall socket and allow the appliance to cool completely before cleaning.
  • Do not use abrasive cleaners (metal scouring pads, scouring powders, bleach) on any part of the unit.
  • Wash the Steamer Lid and Steamer Bowls in hot soapy water, then rinse and dry thoroughly.
  • Parts are NOT dishwasher safe.
  • Empty the water basin and change the water after each use.
  • Do not immerse the Water Reservoir in water; instead, fill it with warm, soapy water, rinse thoroughly, and wipe dry with a soft cloth.
• De-scaling the Water Reservoir:
  • After 2-3 months of consistent usage, chemical deposits may build up in the Water Reservoir and on the heating element. Regular de-scaling is essential to maintain steam production and extend the unit's life.
  • Fill the Water Reservoir to the Max level with approximately 3 cups of clear vinegar (not brown vinegar). Do not use other chemicals or proprietary de-scaling agents.
  • Plug into a wall socket with the steamer bowl and lid in place.
  • Set the timer for 20-25 minutes to begin steaming.
  • WARNING: If vinegar boils over the edge of the base, unplug the unit and switch the timer off, then reduce the quantity of vinegar slightly.
  • When the unit stops after 20-25 minutes, unplug from the wall socket and allow it to cool completely before pouring out the vinegar.
  • Rinse the Water Reservoir several times with cold water. Do not immerse the base in any liquid.
  • Clean other steamer parts as directed above.
• Storage: Store the Food Steamer in a dry location (tabletop, countertop, or cupboard shelf). Wind the electrical cord into a coil and secure with a twist fastener.
• User Maintenance: Other than the recommended cleaning, no further user maintenance is necessary.

Safety Precautions (Important Safeguards):

• Read all instructions, product labels, and warnings before use.
• Do not touch hot surfaces; use handles or knobs and oven mitts when handling hot materials.
• Avoid hot steam rising from the top of the steamer.
• Do not reach over the appliance while it is generating steam. Remove the lid by lifting it slowly away from you.
• Use long-handled utensils.
• Allow the unit to cool completely before washing or storing.
• Unplug the Food Steamer from the electrical outlet when not in use and before cleaning.
• To protect against electrical shock, do not immerse the appliance, cord, or plug in water or other liquids.
• Close supervision is necessary when used by or near children. Do not let children play with the appliance.
• Do not allow anything to rest on the power cord. Do not plug in the cord where it may be walked on or tripped over. Do not let the cord hang over the edge of a table or counter, or touch hot surfaces.
• Do not operate with a frayed or damaged cord or plug, or if the appliance malfunctions or has been damaged. Return to the place of purchase or a licensed electrician for servicing.
• Do not use outdoors.
• Do not place on or near a hot gas or electric burner or in a heated oven or microwave.
• Use extreme caution when moving the appliance if it contains hot water or other hot liquids.
• Do not operate the appliance near walls or cabinets to prevent damage from steam.
• Use the appliance on a level, stable work surface away from water.
• Always use sufficient water for steaming time.
• The use of accessory attachments not recommended by the manufacturer may cause injuries.
• Do not use the appliance for other than its intended use.
• To disconnect, turn any control to "off", then remove the plug from the wall outlet.
• To reduce the risk of electric shock, cook only in the removable container.
• Do not fill over the max mark, or water might overflow and cause damage to the element.
• Do not use foil or paper to line the baskets as this will block the steam holes.
• Do not use near or under shelves or plug sockets.
• Do not put it within reach of children.
• Wear mittens or oven gloves.