More culinary enthusiasts than ever are resolving to cook lighter and healthier. Steam cooking is at the forefront of this trend, which continues to surge as more home cooks learn of its many benefits.

Thanks in part to numerous Thermador innovations and product releases in 2012, steam cooking has taken an entirely different shape in the American kitchen. Over the past year, we’ve introduced luxury appliances such as the Thermador Steam & Convection Oven and Pro Grand Steam Range, which utilize this cooking method.

Benefits of steam cooking include cooking without using butter or fat, the preservation of healthy vitamins and nutrients that typically are lost during the use of traditional cooking methods, and an improved overall appearance of the food.

Additionally, simple tasks such as reheating leftovers are given an incredible lift with steam. Seemingly lifeless and unexciting leftover items such as pizza, lasagna or mac & cheese, and even mashed potatoes can be suddenly given new life with a fresh-from-the-kitchen taste.

As more culinary enthusiasts and their families spend time cooking at home instead of dining out, healthy cooking options become more paramount than ever. Growth, technology and awareness in the steam cooking arena is at an all-time high, and Thermador not only is prepared, but is paving the way for this trend to truly take hold in the culinary focused kitchen.

Here’s to happy, healthy eating!