The Ultimate Guide To Using A Metal Steamer

Metal steamers are a great way to cook food without sacrificing taste or nutrient quality. They are simple to use and can be placed directly into a pot or pan. The process is straightforward: add a little water to the pot, place your ingredients in the basket, and close the lid. Then, simply boil the water and let the steam cook your food. While steaming does take a bit of patience and learning to master, it's a great way to cook anything from vegetables to fish to dumplings.

How much water to use

The amount of water you use in your metal steamer depends on what you are cooking and how much of it there is.

If you are steaming vegetables, you will need less water than if you are steaming meat. For example, if you are steaming a small batch of vegetables or want them to be firmer, fill the pot with about half an inch to an inch of water. For a larger batch of vegetables or for softer veggies, fill the pot about halfway.

If you are using a metal steamer basket, you will need to add about one or two inches of water to the pot. The water should not go above the steamer basket once it is placed in the pot, as this can ruin the meal. However, you should also make sure that you do not add too little water, as this could lead to you burning the pan if the water boils off before your food is cooked.

If you are using an electric steamer, you should follow the instructions that come with your steamer. In general, you should fill the reservoir with water up to the maximum fill line but never exceed it.

When steaming with a bamboo steamer, the bottom rim of the basket should always be submerged in water, but the bottom floor of the basket should stay dry.

Preparing the food

First, decide what you want to steam. You can steam just about anything, from vegetables to chicken, rice, shellfish, and eggs. If you are steaming multiple types of food, it is helpful to know that foods like meat and potatoes take longer to cook than foods like vegetables and fish.

Next, prepare your steamer basket. If using a metal or silicone steamer basket, place your food on top of the basket. If using a bamboo steamer basket, you can put multiple layers of food in the steamer, with the food that will take the longest to cook (e.g. meat) in the bottom basket, and faster-cooking foods (e.g. vegetables) in the upper baskets.

If you are steaming food that might stick to the basket (e.g. skinless fish fillets), spray the surface of the basket with nonstick cooking spray before adding the food.

You can also add herbs and spices to your food for more flavor.

Cooking times

The cooking time will depend on the type of food you are steaming. For example, most vegetables will steam in 5 to 7 minutes, whereas fish takes 10 to 15 minutes, and meat will take 25 to 30 minutes on average.

• Asparagus: 3 to 5 minutes
• Beets: 10 to 15 minutes
• Broccoli: 8 to 10 minutes
• Carrots: 10 to 15 minutes
• Cauliflower: 8 to 10 minutes
• Chicken: 10 to 20 minutes
• Collard greens: 5 to 7 minutes
• Dumplings: 10 minutes
• Eggs: 15 to 16 minutes
• Green beans: 3 to 5 minutes
• Kale: 5 to 7 minutes
• Pork belly: 2 hours
• Potatoes: 10 to 15 minutes
• Seafood: 10 minutes per 1 inch (2.5 cm) of thickness

When steaming food, it is important to cut the ingredients into small, even pieces to ensure even cooking. For example, cubed chicken will steam faster than a whole chicken breast. It is also recommended to place foods that take longer to cook at the bottom of the steamer and foods that cook faster at the top.

Additionally, it is important to use a tight-fitting lid to prevent steam from escaping and affecting the cooking time. Avoid opening the lid while steaming, as this can also alter the cooking time. Instead, set a timer and only lift the lid to check the food when the timer goes off.

Using a seal

If you are using a steam basket on the stove and notice a loose fit, try adding a tea towel between the top of the steamer and the lid. This will help to contain the steam and ensure your food cooks properly.

If your electric steamer has a loose lid, it is recommended that you do not use it at all. It is important to prioritise food safety and avoid any potential hazards.

Additionally, when using a steamer, it is crucial to monitor the water level in the pan. Ensure that it does not dry out by adding more water down the side of the pan if needed. This will ensure that there is enough steam to cook your food thoroughly.

Cleaning the steamer

To keep your steamer in good condition, you should clean it regularly. How often you clean it depends on how often you use it:

• If you use your steamer daily, clean it once a month.
• If you use it occasionally, clean it thoroughly after each use.
• If you use tap water or leave water in the tank, you'll need to clean it more frequently.

• Unplug the machine and empty the water tank.
• Fill the tank with distilled white vinegar and let it sit for 30 minutes to 2 hours.
• Plug the steamer in, turn it on, and set it to the highest setting.
• Point the nozzle into a sink or bucket and press the ON button until all the vinegar is expelled.
• Refill the tank with distilled water and expel all the water.
• Allow the steamer to cool, then dry it with a clean, lint-free cloth.

If your steamer has a hose attachment, remember to detach and flush it with water. You can also make a cleaning mixture with baking soda and water, and let it sit in the water cup for 3-4 hours before rinsing.

Always unplug your steamer and wait for it to cool down before cleaning.

Frequently asked questions