Steaming Potatoes: How Long In An Electric Steamer?

Steaming is one of the healthiest ways to cook potatoes, and it's also simple and quick. The length of time it takes to cook potatoes in an electric steamer depends on the size of the potatoes and the heat setting. Small potatoes will take around 10-15 minutes to cook, while larger potatoes can take up to 40 minutes. To check if your potatoes are cooked, pierce them with a knife or a fork; if the utensil slides in easily, they are done.

How to prepare potatoes for steaming

Preparing potatoes for steaming is a simple process. First, wash the potatoes thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or debris. Use a scrub brush to ensure they are clean. If you are using main-crop potatoes, you may want to peel them, but it is not necessary for small baby potatoes. If you do peel them, use a potato peeler and pare off the skins as thinly as possible to retain the flavour.

Next, cut the potatoes into evenly-sized chunks. If you are using a mix of large and small potatoes, cut the larger ones into smaller pieces so that they cook evenly. Do not let the potatoes sit in water after cutting them; it is best to prepare them just before cooking.

Finally, fill a pot with about one inch of water and place a steamer basket, metal sieve, or colander inside. Bring the water to a boil, then place the potatoes in the steamer basket, with the largest ones at the bottom and the smaller ones on top. Cover the pot with a tight lid to trap the steam and moisture inside.

Now your potatoes are ready to be steamed!

How to season potatoes before steaming

Cooking potatoes in an electric steamer is a great way to retain their flavour and produce a creamy texture. But how do you season them before steaming?

Firstly, it's best to leave the skins on to protect the flesh from the steam, which can rob the potatoes of flavour. If you do decide to peel them, use a potato peeler and pare off the skins as thinly as possible, as most of the flavour is near the skin.

If you're using small potatoes, you can leave them whole. For larger potatoes, cut them into evenly-sized chunks, but not too small – quarter large potatoes and halve smaller ones.

Before steaming, wash the potatoes and place them in the steamer basket. If you're using a variety of sizes, place the largest potatoes at the bottom of the basket and the smaller ones on top.

Now for the seasoning. One option is to sprinkle the potatoes with salt before steaming – about one rounded teaspoon per 1 lb (450 g) of potatoes. You can also add herbs such as mint, especially if you're using new potatoes. Another option is to melt butter and pour it over the potatoes before adding salt and herbs to taste. You can use dried or fresh herbs such as dill, basil, chives, rosemary, tarragon, or parsley.

Cover the pot and let the potatoes steam until they are tender.

How to tell when steamed potatoes are cooked

The cooking time for potatoes in an electric steamer varies depending on the size of the potatoes and the heat setting. Small potatoes will take around 10 to 15 minutes to cook on medium heat, while larger potatoes may take up to 40 minutes.

To tell when steamed potatoes are cooked, there are a few key indicators to look out for:

• The potatoes should be tender. This means that they should be soft but not mushy. You should be able to easily slide a knife or thin skewer into the thickest part of the potato without resistance.
• The potatoes should not be hard in the centre. Make sure to check the thickest part of the potato, as this will be the last part to cook through.
• The skin of the potato should be "snappy" without being tough.

It is important to note that the cooking time may vary depending on the type of electric steamer you are using and the heat setting. It is always a good idea to check the potatoes periodically during the cooking process to ensure they do not overcook or become too soft.

Once the potatoes are cooked to your desired level of doneness, remove them from the steamer and serve immediately. You can also drain off any excess water and return the potatoes to the covered saucepan for a few minutes to absorb any excess steam and prevent sogginess.

How to serve steamed potatoes

Cooking potatoes in an electric steamer is a great way to prepare a healthy and tasty dish. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to serve steamed potatoes:

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Start by washing the potatoes, especially if you plan to leave the skins on. You can use any size or type of potato, but smaller potatoes, such as baby potatoes or new potatoes, tend to cook faster and have a richer, buttery texture. If you are using larger potatoes, cut them into evenly sized chunks. This will ensure that all the potatoes cook evenly.

Step 2: Set Up the Steamer

Fill a large pot with about one inch of water. Add a large pinch of salt to the water. Place a steamer basket inside the pot. If you are using an electric steamer, follow the manufacturer's instructions for set-up.

Step 3: Steam the Potatoes

Place the potatoes in the steamer basket, arranging them with the largest potatoes at the bottom and the smallest at the top. Cover the pot and turn it on. If using an electric steamer, set it to the appropriate temperature setting. For a large potato, steam for 30-40 minutes. For small potatoes, 10 to 15 minutes should be enough. The potatoes are ready when they are tender and can be easily pierced with a knife or fork.

Step 4: Season and Serve

Once the potatoes are cooked, transfer them to a bowl. Now is the time to add your desired seasonings. A simple combination of butter, salt, and herbs like parsley, chives, rosemary, or tarragon works well. You can also experiment with other seasonings like garlic, Old Bay, dill, basil, sage, or thyme. Toss the potatoes gently to coat them evenly with the seasonings. Serve the potatoes hot and enjoy!

How to clean a steamer after cooking potatoes

Cooking potatoes in an electric steamer is a simple and nutritious method to prepare this versatile vegetable. It is a healthy cooking method that helps to preserve nutrients, flavour, and texture. It is also a great way to reduce the need for oils or fats, making it a lower-calorie option compared to frying or roasting.

Now, onto the cleaning part. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to clean your electric steamer after cooking potatoes:

Step 1: Unplug the Steamer

Before you start cleaning, make sure to unplug the steamer from the power source and let it cool down. It is important to wait until the steamer is cool enough to handle comfortably.

Step 2: Remove any Leftover Food

Using a spoon or a spatula, gently remove any leftover potato pieces or residue from the steamer basket and the water reservoir. You can discard these scraps or use them for other purposes, such as composting.

Step 3: Empty and Rinse the Water Reservoir

After removing the leftover food, empty the water reservoir and rinse it thoroughly with clean water. This will help to remove any starch or residue that may have built up during the cooking process.

Step 4: Fill the Reservoir with Clean Water and Add Vinegar

Fill the water reservoir with clean water again, and add a small amount of white vinegar to it. The vinegar will help to break down any stubborn residue and deodorize the steamer. Let the solution sit for a few minutes.

Step 5: Use a Soft Brush or Cloth to Clean

Dip a soft-bristled brush or a clean cloth into the vinegar-water solution and gently scrub the interior of the steamer basket and the exterior of the appliance. Be careful not to get any electrical components wet. You can also use a cotton swab to clean hard-to-reach areas.

Step 6: Rinse and Dry the Steamer

Once you have finished scrubbing, empty the vinegar-water solution and rinse the steamer basket and water reservoir with clean water. Ensure that all the vinegar residue is removed. Finally, dry the steamer with a clean cloth or let it air dry before storing it away.

By following these steps, you will be able to keep your electric steamer clean and well-maintained after cooking potatoes. Regular cleaning will help extend the lifespan of your appliance and ensure that your food always tastes fresh and delicious.

Frequently asked questions