Steaming: The Ultimate Guide To Its Power And Potential

Steaming is a cooking method that uses hot steam generated from boiling water to cook food. It is an old and common technique used all over the world, especially in East Asia. It is considered a healthy way to cook vegetables, meats, and fish, as it helps retain their nutrition, colour, and texture.

Steaming is also a video game digital distribution service and storefront managed by Valve. It was launched in 2003 as a software client to provide game updates automatically for Valve's games and later expanded to distributing third-party titles. Steam offers various features, including game server matchmaking, social networking, and game streaming services.

Steaming as a cooking method

Steaming is an old and very common cooking technique all over the world. It is a healthy and versatile way to cook vegetables, meats, and fish. It is an indirect cooking method that uses hot steam generated from water to cook food. When done right, steaming helps food retain its nutrition, colour, and texture.

There are a lot of different steaming set-ups, though the most classic and recommended one is a simple tiered bamboo steamer. Bamboo absorbs condensation and prevents water from dripping down on the food, making it great for delicate dumplings and desserts. Stainless steel tiered baskets also work well and are perfect for heftier proteins. The caveat is that these tiered baskets require a wide enough wok or pot to nestle them in.

For a simple vegetable medley, a collapsible steamer basket will do the trick. Simply add water to any pot, bring it to a boil, lower in the basket with vegetables and steam until the desired texture is achieved.

Steaming is a very versatile technique that can be applied to almost any cuisine as long as you have the right tools.

The benefits of steaming

Steaming is a simple and effective way to improve your skin and overall well-being. Whether you are steaming your face, body, or hair, the benefits are numerous.

One of the key benefits of steaming is its ability to deeply hydrate the skin. The warm steam increases the skin's temperature, promoting better blood circulation. This enhanced circulation not only gives the skin a healthy, natural glow but also ensures that products can more easily penetrate the skin barrier, making their active ingredients more effective.

Steaming is also an excellent way to clear the skin and reduce acne. The steam helps to open up the pores, softening any debris, excess sebum, and built-up bacteria, making it easier to remove blackheads and whiteheads. It also aids in reducing inflammation and promotes smoother, less oily skin.

Additionally, steaming can provide tension relief and a sense of relaxation. Many people describe feeling calm when using facial steamers or spending time in steam rooms, which can help alleviate stress and improve mental well-being.

For those with colds or sinus problems, steaming can also bring relief. The warm vapors help to open up the sinuses and provide a soothing sensation, making it easier to breathe.

While steaming is generally safe, it is important to exercise caution to avoid steam burns. It is recommended to maintain a safe distance from the steam source and not to overdue the duration of steaming, as excessive steaming can cause redness and sensitivity.

Equipment for steaming

The equipment you will need for steaming depends on your budget and skill level. Here is a list of the essential equipment for steaming, with options for different budgets and skill levels.

Camera

A streaming camera is essential for steaming. While you could use the built-in camera on your phone, laptop, or tablet, investing in a professional camera will significantly improve your video quality.

• No to Low Budget: Your device’s camera (free), Razer Kiyo Streaming Webcam ($79)
• Moderate Budget: PANASONIC V770K HD Camcorder Black ($599)
• Big Budget: SMTAV PTZ Camera with 3G-SDI, HDMI ($799), NDI 4K UHD Camera, BA20UHD-N ($1499), Panasonic AG-CX350 4K ($3,200), Hasselblad X2D 100C ($8,199)

Microphone

A good microphone is the second most important piece of equipment for steaming, as it will affect your audio quality.

• No to Low Budget: Your device’s microphone (free), Rode NT-USB ($169)
• Moderate Budget: Shure MV7 ($249), Blue Yeti X ($139)
• Big Budget: Neumann TLM 102 ($799)

Audio Mixer

An audio mixer is useful if you have multiple audio sources, as it allows you to combine and adjust the sound from each source.

• No to Low Budget: Behringer Xenyx 502 ($39)
• Moderate Budget: Yamaha MG06 ($136)
• Big Budget: Yamaha MG16 ($617), Behringer XR18 Digital Mixer ($699)

Lighting

The right lighting setup ensures that viewers can see you clearly and eliminates distracting shadows.

• No to Low Budget: Natural lighting (free), LimoStudio Rectangular Softbox with Single Socket Complete Kit ($86.39)
• Moderate Budget: Neewer 2 Pack Dimmable Bi-color 480 LED Video Light ($219.99)
• Big Budget: GVM-50W2 50W High Power Floodlight Bi-Color and High Power RGB Lighting Kit ($399)

Switcher

A switcher allows you to quickly change between cameras and camera angles. This is useful if you are streaming with multiple cameras or want to record different speakers.

• No to Low Budget: OBS Studio (Free), Elgato Stream Deck ($149)
• Moderate Budget: RGBlink Mini ($279)
• Big Budget: ATEM Mini Pro ($495), Roland V-1HD ($595)

Encoder

If your camera doesn't capture video in a compatible format, you will need an encoder to convert the video.

• Moderate Budget: Blackmagic Design Web Presenter ($495), Wirecast ($599-$799)
• Big Budget: Live Streaming IPTV Encoder | VECASTER HD ($995)

How to steam without a steamer basket

Steaming is a simple and healthy cooking method that helps preserve the nutritional value of your food. It's also a great way to cook delicate foods without losing their flavour or texture. Here are some ways to steam without a steamer basket:

Using a Plate and Aluminium Foil

You will need a pot with a tight lid, a thick bottom, and a heat-proof plate. First, pour about half an inch of water into the pot. Then, make three balls of aluminium foil that are roughly the size of golf balls and place them at the bottom of the pot. Rest the heat-proof plate on top of the foil balls, add your vegetables to the plate, cover the pot, and bring the water to a boil. This will create a makeshift steaming basket. Once the water is boiling, let the vegetables steam for about 5 minutes on medium-high heat. Be mindful not to open the lid too often, as this will let the steam escape and increase the cooking time. After steaming, carefully remove the vegetables from the plate using a spoon or tongs.

Using a Microwave

Place your cleaned and chopped vegetables in a microwave-safe bowl with a lid. If you're steaming leafy greens like spinach, you don't need to add any water as the rinsed leaves will have enough moisture. Otherwise, add about a tablespoon of water for other types of vegetables. Rest the lid on the bowl without snapping it closed to allow steam to escape. Microwave for 2 to 5 minutes, checking the vegetables for doneness. Denser vegetables like potatoes will take longer to cook.

Using a Colander and a Pot

For this method, you'll need a large pot, a metal colander or strainer, and a pot lid. Fill the pot with about half an inch of water, ensuring that the colander doesn't touch the water when placed inside. If your colander doesn't fit inside the pot, you can hold it over the pot, but be sure to use a pot holder or a colander with a heat-resistant handle to protect your hands. Add your cleaned and chopped vegetables to the colander, taking care not to overfill it. Bring the water to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer. Cover the colander and pot with the lid to prevent steam from escaping. Check on the vegetables after 5 minutes of steaming, adjusting the cooking time as needed. Once the vegetables are tender, remove the colander from the pot and serve.

Using a Wire Cooling Rack

You can also use a wire cooling rack in place of a steamer basket. Simply add an inch of water to a pot with a tight-fitting lid, place the wire rack in the pan, and put your food on top of the rack. Close the lid and steam until your food reaches the desired doneness.

Using a Disposable Aluminium Pie Pan

Another easy option is to use a disposable aluminium pie pan. Poke several holes in the bottom of the pan with a sharp knife or fork to create a steamer basket. Place the pan upside down in a pot filled with about an inch of water, and put your food on top of the inverted pan. The edges of the pan will keep the food elevated above the water, and the flat surface will provide a stable platform for steaming.

How to steam vegetables

Steaming is one of the quickest and healthiest ways to cook vegetables. It is a great way to preserve the nutrients and vibrant colours of vegetables, as opposed to boiling, which can leach out vitamins and minerals.

Equipment

You don't need any fancy equipment to steam vegetables. A pot with a lid and a steamer basket, colander, or strainer that fits snugly inside will do the trick. You can also use a steamer pan insert, which is a second level of the pan with small holes in the bottom. If you want to steam a large quantity of vegetables, an electric steamer is a good option. It takes up less power and accurately times your veg cooking.

Preparing the Vegetables

Any large vegetables should be cut into smaller chunks or bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking. Root vegetables like carrots should be sliced, unless they are small, in which case they can be kept whole. Some vegetables can be kept whole, such as artichokes (make sure to trim them first) and spinach or chard, which can be steamed in whole pieces. Broccoli and cauliflower should be broken into florets.

Cooking the Vegetables

Add 1-2 inches of water to the bottom of your saucepan or pot and place the steamer basket inside. The surface of the water should be just under the basket. Bring the water to a boil. Once boiling, add the vegetables to the basket and cover with a lid.

Cook until the vegetables are just tender when pricked with a fork. The cooking time will depend on the type and thickness of the vegetables. As a rule of thumb, broccoli takes 3 to 5 minutes, green beans and carrots 4 to 5 minutes, and cauliflower 10 to 12 minutes. Taste test the vegetables to check for doneness.

If you are using a steamer pan insert, place the insert over the pan so that it doesn't touch the bottom. Fill the insert with the vegetables and cook until tender.

You can also steam vegetables in the microwave. Put your vegetables in a microwave-safe bowl, add 2-3 tablespoons of water, and cover with a plate or heatproof lid. Microwave on high according to the steaming times for the specific vegetable.

Seasoning

Once the vegetables are cooked, carefully remove them from the steamer and place them in a bowl. You can season them with olive oil, butter, kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, dried or fresh herbs, spices, fresh lemon juice, or cheese.

Tips

• Don't overcook the vegetables. Steam them until they are crisp-tender.
• Cut the vegetables into uniform, bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
• You only need a small amount of water (about 1-2 inches) in the bottom of the pot. The vegetables steam from the rising steam, not by being submerged in water.
• You can steam frozen vegetables, but they will have a softer texture. Shorten the cooking time by a few minutes and taste test to check for doneness.
• Steaming times will vary depending on the thickness and maturity of the vegetable, so be sure to taste test to check for doneness.

Frequently asked questions