All About Steaming: How To Use a Food Steamer
Steaming is one of the best cooking methods for uncompromised flavour and nutrition. This moist-heat technique cooks food by surrounding it with hot vapour in an enclosed environment. Without direct contact between the food and the water, ingredients can retain their shape, colour, texture, and all the good stuff mentioned above. Steaming is favoured for its ability to prepare various foods without adding fats and oils, meaning healthier cooking.
How to steam food, step-by-step?
Step 1:
Fill a casserole with your cooking liquid of choice (like stock- or herb-infused water) three-quarters of the way up the side of the casserole. Leave one-quarter free below where the steamer rests.
Step 2:
Bring the water to a boil, add the steamer and place your ingredients inside the insert. Arrange according to recipe instructions.
Step 3:
Cover with a tight-fitting lid and steam according to instructions. Do not lift the lid at any time, as this will slow the cooking process. Our lids are equipped with vent holes to allow small amounts of steam to escape, reducing condensation.
Step 4:
Once cooked, carefully remove the lid and allow the ingredients to cool for a minute or two. Top tip: Remove your ingredients just before they are ready, about a minute to 30 seconds, as they will continue to cook in the residual heat while they rest.
Serve immediately for the best, most vibrant cooking results.
Full Steam Ahead
Get set for a quick, healthy and highly-flavoured way to cook.
FAQs
#1. Why is it better to steam food?
Steaming locks in the genuine flavours and natural textures of delicate ingredients. It is also perfect for light and fresh meals like vegetables, fish, chicken, and dumplings. Additionally, this method does not require added oils and fats, helping you to cut back on calories.
#2. Which food steamer do I need?
Available in three options, our Stainless Steel Steamers are easy to stack, allowing you to prepare entire meals at once. The 20cm Multi-Steamer with Glass Lid has a stepped base that fits 16cm, 18cm and 20cm stainless steel cookware. The 24cm Large Multi-Steamer with Lid fits all casseroles with a diameter of 20cm, 22cm and 24cm. Finally, the 20cm Steamer Insert can be used singly or stacked on the 3-ply Stainless Steel 20cm Saucepan and Casserole.
#3. How much water do I need to steam food?
Because you're only using water to create steam and not to submerge ingredients, a little bit can go a long way. Fill your casserole with water or cooking liquid to three-quarters below the base of your steamer or colander. The key to successful steaming is keeping the boiling water separate from the steamer basket. This allows the steam to gently envelop your ingredients, ensuring even and delicate cooking without any risk of scorching.
#4. Which heat setting is best for steaming?
Once the water reaches its boiling point, adjust the heat to a medium setting, maintaining a gentle and steady boil. Avoid using the "boost" or "pulse" settings on your induction stove.
#5. How long does food take to steam?
Steam time will vary from recipe to recipe. However, as a rule of thumb, vegetables usually steam in 5 minutes or less, while meat and fish steam in 3-10 minutes. Account for an additional cooling time of a minute or two.
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