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Occasionally, some of the best cooking tools are those that slip from memory until a moment of renewed inspiration prompts you to tidy up your pantry. This was my experience with my steamer, which had been hidden away on an upper shelf, only to be rediscovered after years.
During my childhood in the 1990s, steamed vegetables were a reliable option on many restaurant menus. Typically accompanied by a mix of broccoli, carrots, and – my personal favorite – small baby potatoes, they were often served with something for dipping, such as melted butter or ranch dressing. However, as roasting took center stage in culinary trends, steaming lost its prominence – that is, until I unearthed my steamer and decided to revive it in my cooking routine.
Steamed vegetables evoke a sense of wellness, akin to a spa atmosphere; they are effectively cooked in a humid environment, presenting them as one of the healthiest options available. While that notion might reflect the biases of past dietary trends, research shows that steaming helps retain more nutrients compared to boiling or roasting, and even certain raw preparations. This method is not only straightforward but allows for multitasking; you can easily keep an eye on the food while engaging in other activities, such as writing or assisting family with schoolwork.
However, the versatility of steamers extends well beyond simple vegetable dishes. While I appreciate a basic steamed vegetable platter, my bamboo steamer is often dedicated to cooking frozen dumplings, which achieve a delightful texture and flavor when steamed, unlike when they are either pan-fried or microwaved. Additionally, steaming whole fish is a remarkably easy technique that also serves as an impressive presentation for dinner guests, making it one of my go-to culinary tricks.
Steamers themselves are quite simple in design. They typically feature a perforated cooking surface that allows food to be suspended over steam until fully cooked. There are several types of steamers suited to a variety of tasks: the traditional metal steamer insert that fits in various pots, a bamboo steamer basket ideal for resting atop a larger pot, and a rice cooker equipped with a steamer insert for the more efficient cook. Here are some of my preferred options for effective steaming.
The Best Everyday Steamer Basket
A standard steamer basket, crafted from perforated stainless steel, is perfect for vegetables, eggs (which can be easier to peel) and my annual Christmas tamale preparations. While more deluxe models with silicone feet and specialized handles exist, this basic version is truly all you require for everyday tasks.
A similar option is currently available for just $7:
The Best Bamboo Steamer Basket
Bamboo steaming has roots in Chinese cuisine dating back to the Neolithic era, with the bamboo steamer, or zhēnglóng, being introduced during the Han dynasty. Understanding this history gives my modern-day use of the steamer for frozen soup dumplings an amusing contrast. When using a bamboo steamer, it’s crucial to prevent food from sticking; using steamer liners or alternatives such as cabbage leaves or coffee filters works well.
The Best Rice Cooker for Steaming
Why settle for cooking one dish at a time when you can efficiently prepare two simultaneously? My rice cooker sees frequent use during the week, and I appreciate the convenience of adding a steamer basket on top, facilitating the perfect combination of fluffy rice and tender steamed tofu with little hassle.
The Best Dedicated Countertop Steamer
For those fully invested in the steaming process, I recommend an accessible model from Hamilton Beach. This steamer offers ample capacity for larger items that might not fit in traditional steamers, such as whole fish or corn on the cob.
With a steamer at your disposal, the culinary possibilities are vast, ranging from that package of dumplings waiting in your freezer to the freshest produce from your local CSA. It takes just a few minutes of steaming and the right seasonings or sauces to create a delicious meal.
Source
www.eater.com