A sous vide machine is a cooking device that allows for precise temperature control when cooking food. The technique involves vacuum-sealing food in a bag and cooking it in a precisely regulated water bath. The machine heats water to a constant temperature using a heated metal coil, which means that the cooking progress is gradual and controlled. Sous vide machines are characterized by low-temperature cooking, a longer period of cooking than conventional cooking, and a container (such as a plastic bag) that separates the food from its heating environment. There are two main types of sous vide machines:
-
Immersion circulators: These are standalone devices that heat water and circulate it around the pot to maintain precise temperatures evenly. They do not come with a built-in water bath, so they take up very little space in your kitchen. Immersion circulators are an affordable and easy-to-use sous vide machine option.
-
Water ovens: These machines resemble slow cookers and heat the water in the tub. They usually include a lid so you can cook food for a long period of time without worrying about the water evaporating. They typically have straightforward control panels that are easy to operate. Theyre also often built into other appliances like slow cookers or pressure cookers. Compared to immersion circulators, theyre big and bulky to store.
Sous vide machines are popular because they offer a hands-off cooking experience, making it a great option for parties since your food can cook to perfection while you prep something else. They can also save you money since you can buy cheaper larger or tougher cuts of meat that normally take long to cook, plus the cooking style transforms normal pieces of food into decadent bites.
