How to Use a Bamboo Steamer

Boiling vegetables is a popular method of preparation. It's not the best choice though as it allows the nutrients to escape the food during cooking. A much better way to prepare them is by using a bamboo steamer. A bamboo steamer, popular in Asian cultures, is a type of cooking container made of bamboo that steams the food instead of boiling it. The steamer comes in several sections so you can cook more than one kind of food at a time if desired. Easy to use, it keeps the nutrients in the food making it a healthier way of cooking.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Bamboo steamer
• Wok or large pan
• Food to steam
• Water
• Parchment paper /lettuce leaves

1. 
    
   Using a wok and steamer

   Place the wok upon the unlit burner. A wok is a deep pan used for Asian cooking. A wok is the best choice to use with a bamboo steamer but a deep pan will also do as long as the steamer fits in the pan snugly. The pan will also have to be deep enough for the number of bamboo layers you will use.

2. 
    
   Dumplings on parchment paper

   Layer your steamer with parchment paper or lettuce leaves if possible. This will help prevent your food from sticking to the steamer. Then place your food on the paper or lettuce leaves. Repeat these steps for each section of steamer you are using. For example if you are steaming three different foods and want them separated, put one food in one part each of the bamboo steamer. Remember to put the food requiring the longest cooking time on the bottom.

3. 
    
   Stacked steamers in deep pot

   Place the bottom layer of your steamer in the wok leaving a little room around the sides but still making a snug fit. Pour water into the wok or deep pan until it reaches the steamers bottom rim. Stack any other bamboo steamers you are using on the first one.

4. Turn on the stove burner and bring water to a boil. Follow your specific recipe on heat level. Generally it will be high to med-high heat for the amount of time desired or specified by your recipe.

5. 
    
   Meal made in bamboo steamers

   Turn off the fire and remove from heat when desired cooking time is finished. Take the lid off the steamers. Separate the steamers if you have more than one and remove lids to allow steam to escape. Turn the food onto plates or serve from the bamboo steamers.

Tips & Warnings

• Bamboo steamers can be used for more then vegetables. They can be used for fish, chicken, rice and more.
• Do not get too close when removing the bamboo steamer lids to avoid being burned by the hot steam. Always check the boiling water during steaming to make sure it did not all boil away or that it is not actually coming through the steamer to the food.

Resources

• Many Uses For Your Bamboo Steamer
• How To Use a Bamboo Steamer Video

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[hdubs]

on 8/3/2009 Just the instructions I needed, thanks!