Steaming Made Simple: Using A Steamer Insert Like A Pro

Steamer inserts are a great way to cook food without losing nutrient quality or taste. They are also one of the simplest ways to prepare vegetables. To use a steamer insert, first, find a pot that fits your steamer insert. The insert should fit snugly in the pot. Next, pour in some water – about one to two inches should be enough. Place your food in the steamer insert and put it in the pot. Cover the pot with a lid and bring the water to a boil. Let the food steam until it is cooked to your liking. You can steam vegetables, meat, fish, dumplings, and more!

Electric vs Stove-top

Electric steamers are standalone appliances that are designed to do the work for you on your countertop. You add the water and the food you plan on steaming, close and lock the lid, and select the appropriate setting. There are many different types of electric steamers available, with some featuring multiple tiers that allow you to cook your entire dinner all in one appliance.

Stove-top steamers, on the other hand, are inserts that fit into or on top of a saucepan or other pots that are filled with an inch or two of simmering water. The food is placed in the insert, and the perforated base of the insert allows the steam to surround and heat the food. Stove-top steamers can be found in the form of folding or collapsible raised platforms, perforated metal pans that nest in a saucepan, or bamboo baskets that nest in a wok.

Both types of steamers have their pros and cons. Electric steamers are convenient and easy to use, but they take up counter or storage space. Stove-top steamers are more versatile in terms of the types of pots they can be used with, but they require more manual work.

How much water to use

The amount of water you use in your steamer insert depends on the type of steamer you have and the type of food you are cooking.

Electric Steamer

If you are using an electric steamer, you should follow the instructions that came with your steamer. Generally, it is safe to fill the reservoir up to the maximum fill line. Do not exceed this line, and always refer to the instructions for the best results.

Stovetop Steamer

When using a stovetop steamer, you will need to fill a pot with water. The amount of water you use will depend on the quantity of food you are cooking and how soft you want it to be. For a small batch of food or firmer vegetables, fill the pot with about half an inch to an inch (approximately 1.25 centimetres) of water. For a larger batch of food or softer vegetables, fill the pot about halfway. Make sure that the bottom of your steamer insert is not touching the water, otherwise, your food will boil rather than steam.

Microwave Steamer

When steaming food in the microwave, you will not need a steamer insert or any special equipment. Simply arrange your food in a microwave-safe bowl, add two to three tablespoons of water, cover the bowl, and cook in the microwave.

Preparing food before steaming

• Select the right ingredients: Choose fresh, high-quality ingredients for steaming. Steaming is an excellent way to prepare delicate items such as seafood, shellfish, vegetables, and tender cuts of meat. It is also a common method for cooking dumplings, buns, and steamed cakes in Asian cuisines.
• Cut food into uniform sizes: For even cooking, ensure that your food pieces are similar in size. This is especially important for vegetables. For example, cut broccoli or cauliflower into evenly sized florets.
• Season and flavour your food: Steaming enhances the natural flavours of food, so you may want to season your ingredients beforehand. You can use fresh garlic, ginger, herbs, or citrus slices to add flavour to your dish. Aromatics can also be added to the steamer basket to infuse flavour naturally.
• Wrap or parcel food: If you wish to cook certain ingredients, such as a steak or a mix of fruits, you can wrap them in greaseproof paper or cooking paper parcels. This helps to contain the flavours and moisture during steaming.
• Prepare your steaming equipment: While your food is being prepared, get your steamer insert or basket ready. Ensure you have a pot with a lid that can accommodate the steamer insert and the food you plan to cook. Fill the pot with a small amount of water, about 1-2 inches (2.5 cm) deep, and bring it to a rolling boil. Place the steamer basket or insert over the pot, ensuring it is secure and does not touch the water.
• Arrange food in the steamer: Place your seasoned and prepared food into the steamer basket or insert. Ensure the food is in a single layer and not overcrowded. Leave some space between the lid and the top of the food to allow steam to circulate.
• Timing and temperature: Steaming is a relatively quick cooking method, so stay close to your steamer. Most foods are done when they are tender or easily pierced with a sharp knife. Vegetables should be brightly coloured and just barely soft. Be careful not to overcook, as this can result in mushy textures and diminished flavours.

By following these steps, you will be well on your way to successfully preparing and steaming a variety of delicious and nutritious dishes.

Steaming times

The steaming time will depend on the type of food you are cooking and your personal preference for texture and temperature. For example, if you like softer vegetables, steam them for longer than if you prefer them to be crunchy.

• 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
• Fish: 10 to 15 minutes
• Green beans: 3 to 5 minutes
• Kale: 5 to 7 minutes
• Meat: 25 to 30 minutes
• Pork belly: 2 hours
• Potatoes: 10 to 15 minutes
• Seafood: 10 minutes per 1 inch (2.5 cm) of thickness

It's important to note that these are approximate times and the actual steaming time may vary depending on your heat source, elevation, the type of steamer basket used, and the thickness of the food being cooked. For example, cubed chicken will steam faster than a whole chicken breast. Therefore, it's always a good idea to check a recipe for specific steaming times and adjust as needed based on your personal preferences.

Additionally, if you are steaming multiple types of food that require different cooking times, you can use multiple steamer baskets or add the food that takes longer to cook to the bottom of the basket and then add the other layers once it has cooked for the required time.

Cleaning the steamer

The cleaning frequency of a clothes steamer depends on how often it is used and whether tap or distilled water is used to fill the water tank. The most telling sign that a clothes steamer needs to be cleaned is a sputtering stream of steam from the nozzle. Other signs include reduced levels of steam, and white residue or buildup around the vents in the nozzle. For clothes steamers that are used daily, a monthly clean is recommended. For those that are used less frequently, a thorough clean is recommended before storing it away.

Before cleaning your clothes steamer, refer to the owner's manual for specific instructions for your model. If you cannot find the manual, check the manufacturer's website.

To clean your steamer, follow these steps:

• Unplug the appliance and allow it to cool down.
• Empty the water tank into a sink or bucket.
• Fill the tank with distilled white vinegar or cleaning vinegar. Avoid using other types of vinegar, as they may contain sediment that interferes with the cleaning process.
• Let the vinegar sit in the tank for at least 30 minutes to help break down limescale and mineral deposits. For heavily built-up steamers, you can let the vinegar sit for up to 2 hours.
• Plug in the steamer and set it to the highest setting.
• Point the nozzle into a sink or bucket and turn it on until all the vinegar is expelled. When no more steam is flowing, pour any remaining vinegar down the drain.
• Refill the tank with distilled water up to the fill line.
• With the steamer still on the highest setting, point the nozzle into a sink or bucket and expel all the water. This step helps remove any traces of vinegar and blast out loose mineral deposits.
• Allow the steamer to cool completely, then disassemble as many components as possible.
• Dry the components with a microfiber cloth or allow them to air dry.
• Inspect the components for any damage, such as cracked hoses or gaskets.
• If there is white, chalky residue on the nozzle, pour some warm distilled white vinegar into a small bowl and submerge the nozzle. Allow it to soak for at least 4 hours or overnight.
• Rinse the nozzle with warm water and use a toothpick to gently remove any remaining deposits.
• Reassemble the steamer once all components are dry.

To maintain your steamer and keep it in good condition, always use distilled water and avoid overfilling the tank. Empty the water reservoir between uses and do not allow the water to run dry during steaming. Store the steamer upright with the nozzle in an upright position, ensuring that the reservoir is empty and dry.

Frequently asked questions