Steaming is a fantastic cooking method in many of today food recipes. It’s gentle, preserving nutrients and resulting in deliciously tender foods. But what happens when you’re ready to steam and realize… you don’t own a steamer?
Here are a few simple and effective alternatives:
1. The Colander Method:
All you need is a colander (preferably stainless steel) that fits comfortably inside a pot with a lid.
How to: Add about an inch or two of water to the pot. Place the colander inside, ensuring the bottom of the colander sits above the water level. Arrange your food in a single layer inside the colander, cover the pot with a lid, and bring the water to a gentle simmer. The steam will rise and cook your food to perfection.
2. The Skillet and Foil Ball Trick:
If you don’t have a colander, a skillet and some aluminum foil can do the trick.
How to: Roll aluminum foil into three or four tightly rolled balls. Put them in the bottom of your skillet, evenly spaced. Pour in enough water to cover the foil balls slightly below the top. Make sure your food is not in contact with the water by placing it on a heat-safe plate or dish that rests on top of the foil balls. Steam over medium heat while the skillet is covered with a lid.
3. The Steaming Basket Alternative:
While you may not have a dedicated steamer, you might have a collapsible steaming basket hiding in your drawers. These are typically made of stainless steel and expand to fit different sized pots.
How to: Place the steaming basket inside a pot with a lid. Add water to the pot, making sure it doesn’t reach the bottom of the basket. Place your food inside the basket, cover the pot, and steam until cooked through.
General Tips for Steaming Without a Steamer:
Water Level: Make sure the water level never touches the food, but is always high enough to produce steam.
- Don’t overcrowd: Arrange your food in a single layer for even cooking.
- Keep it Covered: A tight-fitting lid is essential to trap the steam and efficiently cook your food.
- Monitor the Water: Check the water level periodically, adding more if necessary to prevent the pot from boiling dry.
- Adjust Cooking Times: Cooking times may vary slightly depending on the method and type of food.
- Check for doneness frequently.
So, the next time you’re craving steamed vegetables or dumplings food recipe and find yourself without a steamer, remember these simple hacks. You can easily achieve delicious and healthy results with items you likely already have in your kitchen.