The Gourmia GSV550 water bath stands out for its attractive stainless and black design and back-lit LCD temperature and timer display. Unlike some of the more scientifically-styled appliances, the GSV550 makes a sleek addition to the kitchen counter. As a company, Gourmia strives to make healthy, simple, and delicious meals an achievable goal for everyone, every day, even on busy weeknights. Their products combine feedback from both restaurant chefs and home cooks to make that goal a reality. Food can be prepped ahead of time and cooked – perfectly – without constant tending, which leaves time for other responsibilities or just a little down time after a long day at work.
Gourmia GSV 550 Sous Vide Water Oven
Specs at a Glance
- See-through lid
- ACT System Precision Temperature Control Technology
- Rack for multiple pouches
- Large back-lit LCD display
- Programmable up to 72 hours
With home cooks in mind, the Gourmia GSV550 offers a light weight and compact sous vide cooking option that is also cost-effective. This model is less expensive than many other water bath units but still provides precise cooking even at a low price point. Using Active Control Thermostat (ACT) System Precision Temperature Control, the GSV550 provides extremely tight temperature control. Unlike some models, the GSV550 comes standard with a rack designed to hold multiple packets of food with space for water to flow between them and ensure even cooking.
A 9-quart capacity translates to a minimal exterior footprint, roughly the size of a crockpot, which is good for either small kitchens or for those intending to store the unit when not in use. The GSV550 only weighs around 9 pounds, as well, making it easy to move in and out of cabinets or even to transport to another location. Solid handles also help facilitate its portability and make it safer to transport with hot water.
The GSV550 includes an “EasyVue” lid, which leaves the majority of the top see-through for easy monitoring of the contents inside. The lid can also function as a drip tray. The interior is non-stick, rather than stainless, which makes cleaning-up an easy task. Alerts for both time and temperature are audible, and the timer can be set from 30 minutes up to 72 hours. Temperature range is between 45 degrees and 90 degrees Celsius (includes a toggle switch between Celsius/Fahrenheit) which is more limited than other water bath models. A set of non-stick tongs is included to allow removal of food from the reservoir without compromising the coating.
Pros:
- Provides precise temperature settins 113°F to 194°F (45°C to 90°C)
- Digital control, with cooking controls of up to 200 degrees Farengeit and 72 hours
- Non stick interior and stainess steel cooking rack
- Contains 360 degrees water circulation, cooking food to perfection
- ETL Certified
Cons:
- Interior is not stainless steel
Gourmia GSV 900 Sous Vide Water Oven
The Gourmia GSV900 is a slightly larger sibling of the GSV550 with all the great qualities of a Gourmia product and a very special added feature – a water circulation system. This product is truly the best of both worlds, combining the convenience of a combination water bath system with the consistent water temperature controls of an immersion circulator. Healthy foods such as salmon, eggs, and asparagus will have consistently tender texture throughout, even with shorter cooking times, while delicate soups or rich sauces are also perfectly cooked. Gourmia’s thoughtful design offers a professional cooking experience at home, at a value home cooks appreciate, and with precise results expected by gourmet chefs.
Specs at a Glance
- Water circulation system
- Stay cool exterior and handles
- 12-compartment stainless steel rack
- Recalibration option
- See-through lid
The Gourmia GSV900 is a power-house, light and compact at only 10 quarts but with a water circulation system that uses a quiet pump (and cooling fan) to emulate an immersion sous vide device. This unique combination eliminates cool spots within the water bath but keeps the convenience of a dedicated water reservoir and simple controls to perfectly cook even delicate foods. Like most water baths, the unit includes a lid which helps mitigates the evaporation concerns of a traditional immersion circulator and eliminate excess steam in the kitchen.
At just over 8 pounds, the unit can be stored easily or moved around on the counter as needed. The classic stainless design makes an attractive addition to the kitchen, regardless of where it's housed during its down time.
The lid has slightly less see-through area than the other Gourmia model but the extra top space is used to house the controls, making them easier to access and see. In addition to temperature and time displays, the GSV900 also includes a fan indicator. Recessed handles stay cool while the unit is on, and the power supply is removable for added safety. Fill marks are clearly indicated on the non-stick interior, which is particularly important to ensure the circulation system works properly.
Temperature control range is from 0 to approximately 95 degrees Celsius, with a maximum 24-hour timer. While a 24-hour timeframe is acceptable for most dishes, this may be a significant limitation for those looking for longer cooking time options. The cooking rack enhances the water circulation system and can hold up to 12 different food containers.
Pros:
- Cook at the precise temperature and circulation control
- Cooking capacity 8.5 liters, allows up to 12 vacuum sealed packages to be cooked
- Backlit digital display
- Comes with recipe book
Cons:
- Not very quiet