Steaming With A Steamer Rack: A Guide For Pressure Cookers

Steamer racks are a great accessory for pressure cookers, and they come in a variety of materials and designs. They are used to hold food up off the bottom of the pan, allowing you to cook different types of food simultaneously without overcooking. When using a steamer rack, it is important to place the food that requires the longest cooking time at the bottom, closest to the heat source, and the food that needs the least cooking time at the top. This ensures that all your food is cooked properly. Additionally, you can add flavour to your dishes by using infused water or broth for steaming.

How to steam vegetables in a pressure cooker

Steaming vegetables in a pressure cooker is a great way to cook them evenly and quickly, preserving their colour, texture, and essential vitamins. It is also a swift and efficient method to lock in nutrients and flavours. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to steam vegetables using a pressure cooker:

Step 1: Gather Your Tools and Ingredients

You will need a pressure cooker, a steamer basket or trivet, water, and vegetables of your choice. A steamer basket or trivet is important to keep the vegetables above the water level.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

Wash all vegetables thoroughly to remove any dirt or pesticides. Cut them into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking. Smaller pieces will cook faster than larger ones.

Step 3: Add Water to the Pressure Cooker

Pour about 1-2 cups of water into the bottom of the pressure cooker. The amount of water can vary based on the cooker size, but ensure there is enough to generate steam without reaching the vegetables.

Step 4: Insert the Steamer Basket or Trivet

Place the steamer basket or trivet into the pressure cooker. Make sure it sits above the water level.

Step 5: Add the Vegetables

Spread the prepared vegetables evenly in the basket or on the trivet. Avoid overloading to ensure steam circulates freely.

Step 6: Close the Lid and Set the Timer

Close the pressure cooker lid securely. Ensure the steam valve is in the correct position for cooking. Set the timer for 2-3 minutes for softer vegetables like spinach or kale, and up to 5 minutes for harder ones like carrots or potatoes. Adjust the time based on the vegetable type and size.

Step 7: Release the Pressure and Open the Lid

After cooking, use the natural release method for about 5 minutes, then switch to quick release to expel any remaining steam. Handle with care to avoid steam burns. Carefully open the lid, away from your face, to avoid steam.

Step 8: Check for Doneness and Remove the Vegetables

Test a piece of vegetable for tenderness. If it is not done, close the lid and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes. Remove the vegetables promptly to prevent overcooking. They are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for later.

Tips:

• Keep an eye on the water level. Too little water may cause the cooker to burn dry, while too much might make the vegetables soggy.
• Steam in batches for large quantities to ensure even cooking.
• Experiment with different vegetables to find your preferred textures and cooking times.
• You can season the vegetables with salt, pepper, or your favourite seasonings before or after steaming to enhance their flavour.

How to steam eggs in a pressure cooker

Steamer racks and baskets are a great way to cook eggs in a pressure cooker. They are usually sold with the pressure cooker unit, but they can also be purchased separately. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to steam eggs in a pressure cooker using a steamer rack:

Step 1: Prepare the Pressure Cooker

Place the steamer rack or basket in the bottom of your pressure cooker. Add water to the pressure cooker. The amount of water will depend on the type and size of your pressure cooker, but generally, you will need enough water to reach just below the steamer rack or basket. For most recipes, about 1 cup of water is sufficient.

Step 2: Prepare the Eggs

Take the eggs straight from the fridge. You can cook as many eggs as you like, but avoid stacking them on top of each other or wedging them too closely together, as this can cause cracking. If you need to cook more eggs than can fit comfortably in a single layer, cook them in multiple batches.

Step 3: Cook the Eggs

Close the lid of the pressure cooker and ensure the steam valve is in the "sealed" position. Set the pressure to high and the timer according to your desired level of doneness:

• Soft-boiled: 3 to 4 minutes
• Medium-boiled: 5 to 6 minutes
• Hard-boiled: 8 to 10 minutes

The pressure cooker will take about 5 to 10 minutes to come to full pressure before the cooking time begins. After the cooking time has elapsed, let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes with the lid on and the steam vent sealed. Then, carefully quick-release any remaining pressure by flipping the steam valve to the "venting" position.

Step 4: Cool the Eggs

Transfer the eggs to a bowl of cold water or an ice bath to stop the cooking process and cool them down. Change the water as it warms until the eggs are completely cool. At this point, you can peel and enjoy the eggs, or store them in their shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Tips:

• For easier peeling, tap the cooled eggs a few times on the counter before peeling. You can also try peeling them in a bowl of water, which helps create space between the shell and the egg.
• For a single egg or a small batch of eggs, you can use a trivet that comes with the pressure cooker instead of a steamer rack or basket. Place the eggs on the trivet, making sure they don't touch the water, and proceed with the cooking process.
• To add flavour to your eggs, you can infuse the water with vinegar, wine, herbs, or broth. The steaming liquid can also be saved and used as a broth for other dishes.

How to flavour the water in a pressure cooker

A pressure cooker is a handy tool for any home cook to elevate their dishes. While water is essential for pressure cooking, you can also add flavour to the water to enhance your dish.

Flavouring the Water

The water used for steaming can be flavoured with various liquids and sauces to add moisture, texture, and taste to your dish. Thin liquids such as wine, vinegar, broth, and even tomato sauce can be used to flavour the water. You can also use fruit juices, beer, thin marinades, citrus juices, soy sauce, and more. These liquids can be mixed with water to create the perfect consistency for pressure cooking.

However, thick liquids cannot be used for steaming as they will scorch and overburn. Instead, thin liquids must be added to thick liquids to provide the necessary steam.

Additionally, dairy products such as milk, cream, and cheese should not be added at the beginning of the cooking process as they burn easily. It is best to add them towards the end of the cooking process.

Tips for Using a Steamer Rack

When using a steamer rack or basket, it is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions for specific foods. Here are some additional tips:

• When using water, allow it to boil for 5-10 minutes before placing the steamer rack in the pressure cooker.
• Choose the lowest pressure level unless instructed otherwise.
• Grease or brush the rack or basket when cooking fatty foods to prevent sticking.
• Use the recommended cooking settings for seafood and fish to avoid overcooking.
• If your pressure cooker does not have a perforated insert, invest in a collapsible stainless steel steamer that opens like a flower.
• Choose the largest steamer that will fit your pressure cooker to maximise the flat surface area for cooking.
• Always use a trivet with your steamer rack or basket to keep them raised above the steaming liquid.

So, the next time you use your pressure cooker, try experimenting with different flavours in the water to take your cooking to the next level!

How to avoid overcooking food in a pressure cooker

A pressure cooker is a great way to cook food quickly and efficiently. However, it is easy to overcook food in a pressure cooker, and once you do, there is no going back. Here are some tips to avoid overcooking food in a pressure cooker:

Use a steamer rack or basket:

If you are cooking food that is prone to overcooking, such as seafood or fish, use a steamer rack or basket to elevate the food above the water level. This will ensure that you are steaming the food rather than boiling or braising it. Most modern pressure cookers come with a simple steamer basket insert, but you can also purchase a collapsible stainless steel steamer that opens and closes like a flower. These steamers come in multiple sizes, so choose the largest one that will fit your pressure cooker to maximise the cooking surface. If your pressure cooker has a non-stick interior, be sure to use a silicone steamer basket to avoid scratching.

Follow manufacturer's instructions:

When using a steamer basket, always follow the manufacturer's instructions for how to use it and for how long with specific foods. This is the best way to ensure that your food is cooked properly and avoid overcooking.

Choose the right pressure level:

If your pressure cooker offers multiple pressure levels, always choose the lowest one unless otherwise instructed. This will help to prevent overcooking.

Grease the basket:

When cooking succulent food or fish, grease or brush the steamer basket slightly to prevent the food from sticking to it. This will help ensure that your food doesn't overcook or stick to the basket.

Use a trivet:

If your steamer basket did not come with a trivet, consider using one to raise the basket out of the steaming liquid. Most steamer baskets do not have feet, so a trivet will help keep them raised.

Place food strategically:

When using a multi-level steamer basket, place the food that requires the most cooking time at the bottom of the basket, closest to the heat source. Place the food that requires the least cooking time at the top of the basket. This will help ensure that all your food is cooked properly and prevent overcooking.

Check the size of your ingredients:

The size of your ingredients will affect the cooking time. A large roast, for example, will take longer to cook than 1-inch chunks of meat. So, when preparing food for the pressure cooker, try to cut your ingredients into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking and prevent overcooking.

How to steam multiple foods at once in a pressure cooker

Steamer baskets and racks are a great way to cook multiple foods at once in a pressure cooker. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Step 1: Choose the Right Steamer Basket or Rack

Most modern pressure cookers come with a simple steamer basket insert. However, if yours didn't, or if you're looking for more versatility, you can purchase multi-level or compartmentalized steaming baskets, or collapsible stainless steel steamers that open and close like a flower. These options allow you to cook several foods at once.

Step 2: Prepare the Pressure Cooker

Before placing the steamer basket or rack into the pressure cooker, follow the manufacturer's instructions for preparing the cooker. This may include boiling water for 5-10 minutes before adding the basket or rack.

Step 3: Arrange Your Foods

When using a multi-level steamer basket or rack, place the foods that require the longest cooking time at the bottom, closest to the heat source, and the foods that require the shortest cooking time at the top. This arrangement ensures that all your foods finish cooking at the same time and can be easily removed.

Step 4: Flavor Your Steam

For added flavor, you can infuse the water in the pressure cooker with vinegar, wine, herbs, or broth. The steam will impart a subtle flavor to your foods. Alternatively, you can use tomato sauce or other liquids, and then use the steaming liquid as a sauce for your meal.

Step 5: Use a Trivet

If your steamer basket doesn't have feet to keep it raised above the water, use a trivet in conjunction with the basket. Trivets are metal, prong-like contraptions that raise your basket or foods off the bottom of the cooker. They are often included with pressure cookers, but you can also use heat-resistant stainless steel cookie cutters or metal jar lids as a substitute.

Step 6: Steam Your Foods

Follow the manufacturer's instructions for how long to steam your foods. Remember to use the lowest pressure setting unless otherwise instructed.

By following these steps, you can efficiently cook multiple foods at once in your pressure cooker, making it a convenient and time-saving way to prepare delicious and healthy meals.

Frequently asked questions