Steaming Beans: A Quick, Healthy Cooking Guide

Steamed beans are a quick, easy, and healthy side dish that goes with almost any meal. They are also incredibly versatile and can be seasoned in countless ways, such as with minced garlic and butter, grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese, or even lemon juice and zest for brightness. Preparing them is simple: all you need is a colander, pot, deep skillet, or steamer basket, and you can have a delicious and nutritious side ready in minutes.

How to steam green beans without a steamer basket

Steaming is a great way to cook green beans, as it helps maintain their vibrant colour and nutritional value. Here are some methods to steam green beans without a steamer basket:

The Double Boiler Method

If you have a saucepan and a heatproof bowl that fits snugly on top, you can create a makeshift steamer. Simply fill the saucepan with water, ensuring it doesn't touch the bowl's bottom when placed on top. Place the green beans in the bowl, cover with a lid or foil, and bring the water to a boil. Let the steam cook the beans for about 5-7 minutes or until they reach your desired tenderness. Use oven mitts or a towel when removing the bowl, as it will be hot.

The Microwave Method

Place the green beans in a microwave-safe dish with a small amount of water (about 2 tablespoons). Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. Microwave on high for 3-5 minutes, depending on your microwave's wattage and the desired tenderness. Again, use oven mitts or a towel when removing the dish, as it will be hot.

The Stir-Fry Method

Heat a tablespoon of oil in a skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the green beans and sauté for a minute or two until they start to soften. Add a splash of water, cover the skillet, and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let the beans steam for about 5 minutes or until tender, stirring occasionally.

The Colander Method

Fill a pot with about an inch of water and bring it to a boil. Place a metal colander over the pot, ensuring it doesn't touch the water, and add the green beans. Cover the pot with a lid, reduce the heat to medium-low, and let the steam cook the beans until tender.

The Metal Sieve Method

Similar to the colander method, bring water to a boil in a pot, ensuring it's below the level of the sieve when placed on top. Add the green beans to the sieve, cover the pot, and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let the steam cook the beans until tender.

The Heatproof Plate Method

Fill a pot with about an inch of water and place a heatproof plate or shallow dish inside, ensuring it sits above the water level. Arrange the green beans on the plate, cover the pot, and let the steam cook the beans until tender.

The Oven Method

Preheat the oven to around 400°F (200°C). Wrap the green beans tightly in aluminium foil and place them on a baking sheet. Cook for about 15-20 minutes or until tender.

The Microwave with a Bowl Method

Place trimmed green beans in a large bowl with a small amount of water at the bottom. Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or plate (avoid plastic wrap), and cook on high power for 1 minute. Test for doneness and repeat in 15-second intervals until the beans are steamed to your liking.

Happy cooking!

How to trim green beans

Trimming green beans is a simple task that can be done in a few different ways. Firstly, wash the beans thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris. Then, you have two main options:

• Line up the tip of the stem ends of the beans so they are even. Firmly hold the beans in one hand and, with the other hand, use a knife to trim off the tips in a slicing motion.
• Alternatively, you can snap off the tips of the beans individually. Hold each bean in one hand and break off the tip with the other.

You may also choose to remove the tail end of the beans, but this is not necessary.

How to flavour steamed green beans

Steaming green beans is a simple and quick way to cook them while retaining their flavour and nutrients. There are many ways to flavour steamed green beans, and you can get creative with seasonings to match your main dish. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Butter, Salt and Pepper

A simple combo of melted butter, salt, and freshly cracked pepper can be a delicious way to flavour your steamed green beans. The butter adds a rich and creamy taste, while salt and pepper enhance the natural flavour of the beans.

Lemon Zest and Juice

Adding lemon zest and juice to your steamed green beans can give them a bright and refreshing flavour. The tartness of the lemon juice pairs well with the beans' natural sweetness.

Sesame Oil and Sesame Seeds

For an Asian-inspired twist, try drizzling your steamed green beans with sesame oil and sprinkling them with sesame seeds. Sesame oil has a distinctive nutty aroma and taste, while the sesame seeds add a crunchy texture.

Garlic

Garlic can be a great addition to steamed green beans. Sliced or minced garlic cloves, cooked until fragrant in olive oil, can add a punch of flavour to your beans.

Herbed Butters

For a more indulgent option, you can try using flavoured butters with herbs like parsley, basil, cilantro, or garlic. These butters can be made by combining softened butter with your choice of herbs and other ingredients like lemon juice or zest.

Parmesan Cheese

Adding freshly grated Parmesan cheese to your steamed green beans can also enhance their flavour. The salty and nutty taste of Parmesan pairs well with the beans, and it adds a nice touch of umami.

Vinegar

A splash of vinegar, such as white wine vinegar, can add a tangy twist to your steamed green beans. Just be mindful of the amount you use, as too much can be overpowering.

Nuts

Toasted nuts, such as slivered almonds, can be a tasty topping for steamed green beans. They add a crunchy texture and a boost of flavour.

Feel free to experiment with different combinations of these ingredients or create your own unique flavour profile to suit your taste preferences!

How to serve steamed green beans

Steamed green beans are a delicious and healthy side dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some tips on how to serve steamed green beans:

Choosing the Right Green Beans

Start with fresh, high-quality green beans that are uniformly green, plump, and free of spots and blemishes. Smaller beans are usually more tender and sweet than larger ones. You can also use frozen green beans, but they may need a different cooking time, so check the package instructions.

Preparing the Green Beans

Wash the green beans thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris. Trim the stem ends of the beans by snapping them off individually or by lining them up and cutting them with a knife. You can also remove the tail end, but it is not necessary. Leave the beans whole or cut them into halves or smaller pieces, depending on your preference.

Steaming the Green Beans

The key to perfectly steamed green beans is to not overcook them. Steam them until they are bright green, tender, and still have a good bite. This usually takes around 5 minutes, depending on your desired level of tenderness. You can use a steamer basket placed in a pot with about an inch of water, or try alternative methods like using a colander or a pie pan with holes poked in it.

Seasoning and Flavoring

You can season steamed green beans in a variety of ways to enhance their flavor. Here are some ideas:

• Classic: Melted butter with salt and freshly cracked black pepper
• Lemon zest and juice
• Sesame oil and sesame seeds
• Olive oil with sliced garlic cloves and a squirt of lemon juice
• Minced garlic and butter
• Grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese
• Rice vinegar and sesame seeds
• Slivered toasted almonds
• Thinly sliced green onions

Serving Suggestions

Steamed green beans make a great side dish for a variety of main courses, including:

• Meatloaf
• Salmon
• Shrimp
• Chicken dishes such as grilled chicken, pan-seared chicken, or lemon garlic chicken
• Vegetarian mains like vegetarian meatloaf, stuffed peppers, or eggplant Parmesan
• Pasta dishes such as broccoli mac and cheese, stuffed shells, or lasagna roll-ups

So, get creative with your seasonings and enjoy your perfectly steamed green beans as a delicious and nutritious side dish!

How to choose the best fresh green beans

When choosing fresh green beans, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure you get the best beans for steaming. Firstly, look for beans that are firm and crisp, avoiding any that are limp or wrinkled. The beans should be bright green in colour, with a smooth, shiny surface. Check the ends of the beans to make sure they are not dried out or discoloured. You can also snap a bean in half to check its freshness; it should make a crisp snapping sound.

When selecting your beans, go for ones that are all around the same size, as this will ensure they cook evenly. You can choose between thin or thick beans, depending on your preference. Thinner beans tend to be more tender, while thicker beans can have a slightly tougher texture.

When buying fresh green beans, it's best to choose organic beans if possible, as they are less likely to have been treated with pesticides. If you're buying beans from a farmer's market or local farm, ask about their growing practices to ensure you're getting a high-quality product.

Finally, make sure to inspect the beans for any signs of damage, such as holes or discolouration. Avoid any beans that look like they may have been affected by insects or disease.

By following these tips, you'll be sure to choose the best fresh green beans for your steamed bean dish!

Frequently asked questions