Steaming Veggies In A Can Cooker: Quick, Easy, Healthy!

Steaming is a quick and easy way to cook vegetables, and when done right, it can produce delicious, tender, and crisp veggies. There are several ways to steam vegetables, including using a stove, microwave, Instant Pot, or rice cooker. The key to successful steaming is to avoid overcooking and to cut the vegetables into uniform sizes so that they cook evenly. With the right techniques and timing, you can enjoy perfectly steamed vegetables as a fast side dish or incorporate them into various meals.

Steamer basket vs no steamer basket

Steamer baskets are a convenient tool for cooking vegetables, but are they necessary? Here's a comparison of using a steamer basket versus other cooking methods for steaming vegetables.

Steamer Basket

Steaming vegetables is a quick and easy way to cook them while preserving their texture and nutrients. Steamer baskets are designed to hold food above boiling water, allowing it to cook gently in the rising steam. The baskets typically have perforated or slotted bottoms that allow steam to pass through and cook the food. They can be made of different materials such as stainless steel, silicone, or bamboo, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

Advantages of Using a Steamer Basket:

• Quick and convenient: Steamer baskets heat up quickly and can handle a variety of foods, from delicate fish to hearty vegetables.
• Even cooking: The baskets distribute steam evenly, ensuring that food cooks uniformly.
• Nutrient retention: Steaming helps retain nutrients and vibrant colours, as opposed to boiling, which can leach out vitamins and minerals.
• Easy cleanup: Many steamer baskets are dishwasher-safe and have non-stick surfaces, making cleanup a breeze.

No Steamer Basket

It is possible to steam vegetables without a steamer basket by using alternative methods and kitchen equipment. Here are some common alternatives:

Using a Pan with a Lid

One simple alternative is to use a pan with a lid. Fill the pan with about an inch or two of water and bring it to a boil. Add the vegetables, cover the pan, and cook until tender. This method is straightforward and effective, but it may not distribute steam as evenly as a steamer basket.

Collapsible Steamer Basket

A collapsible steamer basket is an affordable and space-saving option. It fits directly into a saucepan, sitting just above the bottom of the pan. It is ideal for smaller quantities of vegetables and can be easily stored due to its collapsible design.

Electric Steamer

If you frequently cook large batches of vegetables, an electric steamer is a worthwhile investment. It can hold a large quantity of vegetables, is energy-efficient, and accurately times your cooking.

Advantages of Not Using a Steamer Basket:

• Cost-effective: You may already have a pan with a lid or a collapsible steamer basket, eliminating the need for an additional purchase.
• Space-saving: Alternative methods may utilise equipment you already own, avoiding the need for a specialised steamer basket.
• Versatility: Different cooking methods allow you to choose the one that best suits your needs, whether steaming small or large quantities of vegetables.

In conclusion, both using a steamer basket and alternative methods have their merits. Steamer baskets offer convenience, even cooking, and easy cleanup, while alternative methods can be more cost-effective and versatile, utilising equipment you may already have in your kitchen. Ultimately, the decision to use a steamer basket or not depends on your personal preferences, the quantity of vegetables you typically cook, and your storage and budget constraints.

How to steam vegetables in a microwave

Steaming vegetables is a quick and easy way to cook them while preserving their nutritional value and flavour. Here is a step-by-step guide to steaming vegetables in a microwave:

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Before steaming, cut the vegetables into uniform bite-sized pieces. This ensures that they cook evenly and at the same rate. Smaller pieces will also cook faster than larger pieces.

Step 2: Choose a Microwave-Safe Container

Select a microwave-safe bowl or plate that is large enough to hold your vegetables in a single layer. This ensures even cooking.

Step 3: Add Water

Add a small amount of water to the container, about 2-3 tablespoons or enough to create steam. The water should not touch the vegetables.

Step 4: Cover and Microwave

Cover the container with a microwave-safe plate or lid. Place the container in the microwave and set it to high heat. Refer to the steaming times for specific vegetables (as outlined below) but check regularly to ensure they are not overcooked.

Step 5: Test for Doneness

Check if the vegetables are tender by piercing them with a fork or knife. They should be tender but still slightly firm (al dente). If they are not done, microwave in short intervals until they reach the desired texture.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Once cooked, carefully remove the vegetables from the microwave and transfer them to a bowl. You can season them with olive oil, butter, salt, fresh herbs, lemon juice, or your choice of spices. Serve and enjoy!

Steaming Times for Common Vegetables:

• Spinach, Arugula: 2-3 minutes
• Broccoli Florets: 3-5 minutes
• Cauliflower Florets: 5-12 minutes
• Green Beans: 4-5 minutes
• Asparagus: 2-5 minutes
• Carrots: 4-10 minutes
• Brussels Sprouts: 6-7 minutes
• Cabbage: 7-10 minutes
• Baby Potatoes: 10-15 minutes
• Sweet Potatoes: 25-35 minutes (halved; shorter for diced)

How to steam vegetables in an Instant Pot

Steaming vegetables is one of the easiest and quickest ways to cook them. It's a healthy cooking method that locks in flavour, nutrients and a perfectly tender texture. Here is a step-by-step guide to steaming vegetables in an Instant Pot.

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Firstly, cut the vegetables into uniform bite-sized pieces. This helps them cook evenly and at the same rate. You can mix vegetables, but be aware that more tender vegetables, like broccoli, will cook faster than denser vegetables, like carrots. If you want to steam a mix of vegetables together, add the longer-cooking veggies first and then add the quicker-cooking veggies after a few minutes.

Step 2: Add Water and the Steamer Basket

Add about an inch of water to the bottom of the Instant Pot. Then, place the steamer basket inside. The water level should be just under the basket.

Step 3: Add the Vegetables

Once the water is boiling, add the vegetables to the steamer basket. Make sure the vegetables aren't touching the water. Close the lid, ensuring the vent is in the sealing position.

Step 4: Cook

Set the Instant Pot to Steam mode and cook on high pressure for 0 minutes. Yes, zero minutes! The Instant Pot will take about 5-10 minutes to come to pressure, and then it will beep to notify you that it's done.

Step 5: Quick Release the Pressure

As soon as the Instant Pot beeps, manually release the pressure by moving the steam release valve to Venting. When the floating valve drops, open the lid.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Remove the steamer basket from the Instant Pot and drain any remaining water from the pot. Season the vegetables with salt, pepper, olive oil, butter, fresh herbs, lemon juice or your choice of spices. Enjoy!

How to steam vegetables in a rice cooker

Steaming vegetables is a quick and easy way to cook them while preserving their nutritional value. It's also a great way to enhance the nutrients and flavour of your rice. Here's how to steam vegetables in a rice cooker:

Preparing the Vegetables

Before you start steaming, you'll need to prepare your vegetables. Wash and cut them into uniform, bite-sized pieces. This will ensure even cooking, and you can refer to the timing guides provided by sources for specific vegetables.

Using a Rice Cooker with a Steam Basket

If your rice cooker has a steam basket, add an inch or two of water to the rice cooker, then insert the steamer basket. Make sure the water level is below the basket. Place the vegetables in a single layer in the basket, close the lid, and start the rice cooker.

If your rice cooker has a one-button function, press it and check the vegetables periodically. More advanced rice cookers may have a steaming function that can be set for specific time increments. Depending on the type of vegetables, steaming should take around 5 to 15 minutes.

Using a Rice Cooker without a Steam Basket

If your rice cooker doesn't have a steam basket, you can still steam vegetables by placing them directly in the inner pot. Cut the vegetables into large bite-sized pieces and add them to the pot, starting with harder vegetables like pumpkin or root vegetables.

Place softer vegetables, such as green beans and mushrooms, on top. Add a small amount of water and oil, and season with salt and pepper. Close the lid and select the "Plain" function if available, or follow the instructions for your specific rice cooker model.

Tips for Perfect Steamed Vegetables

• Avoid overcooking: Set a timer and check your vegetables frequently to prevent over-steaming.
• Don't overcrowd the basket: Ensure there is space for steam to circulate and cook the vegetables evenly.
• Season to taste: After steaming, toss the vegetables with olive oil, butter, salt, or fresh herbs and spices to enhance their flavour.
• Experiment with different vegetables: You can steam a variety of vegetables, including broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, green beans, and more. Just remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

By following these steps, you can easily steam vegetables in your rice cooker, creating a healthy and delicious side dish to enjoy with your meal.

How to steam vegetables on a stove

Steaming vegetables is a quick and easy way to cook them while preserving their nutritional value and flavour. Here is a step-by-step guide to steaming vegetables on a stove:

Step 1: Prepare the vegetables

Before steaming, cut the vegetables into uniform, bite-sized pieces. This ensures that they cook evenly and at the same rate. Smaller pieces will also cook faster than larger pieces.

Step 2: Prepare the stove

Add about 1-2 inches of water to a saucepan or pot and place it on the stove. If you have a steamer basket, insert it into the pot so that the surface of the water is just below the basket. If you don't have a steamer basket, you can use a heat-proof colander instead.

Step 3: Bring the water to a boil

Turn on the stove and bring the water to a boil over high heat. This is an important step as the steam generated will cook the vegetables.

Step 4: Add the vegetables

Once the water is boiling, carefully place the vegetables into the steamer basket or colander. Make sure they are in a single layer and not overcrowded. Cover the pot with a lid.

Step 5: Steam the vegetables

Reduce the heat to medium and let the vegetables steam until they are tender. The cooking time will depend on the type of vegetable and the size of the pieces. Tender vegetables like broccoli or asparagus will cook faster (3-5 minutes), while denser vegetables like carrots or potatoes will take longer (8-20 minutes). Check the vegetables regularly to ensure they don't overcook.

Step 6: Test for doneness

To check if the vegetables are done, pierce the thickest part of the vegetable with a knife or fork. If it slides in easily, the vegetables are cooked through. The vegetables should also be bright and vibrant in colour when ready.

Step 7: Season and serve

Once the vegetables are tender, carefully remove them from the steamer and place them in a bowl. You can season them with olive oil, butter, salt, and a squeeze of lemon or lime. Add fresh or dried herbs, spices, or cheese for extra flavour.

Enjoy your perfectly steamed vegetables as a healthy and delicious side dish!

Frequently asked questions