How to Clean a Bamboo Steamer

Bamboo steamers are designed to sit in a wok of boiling water and steam food. Bamboo, as a natural material, allows steam to circulate, but will also cause it to evaporate so there is less moisture buildup on the inside while food is cooking. Bamboo steamers are also efficient in that they lend themselves well to multi-tiered cooking. As many a five bamboo steamers can be stacked and the food steamed simultaneously. Bamboo steamers are also attractive enough to serve food in, eliminating the need to dirty an extra dish. With the right care and cleaning, your bamboo steamer should last many years.

Instructions

1. Rinse thoroughly with hot water if there is no food stuck to the inside of the steamer. Do not use soap in this case.

2. If there is food cooked to the inside of the steamer, take a small amount of mild dish detergent and a soft cloth and clean the steamer by hand. Use hot water, but do not submerge.

3. Once the food is off, rinse the steamer thoroughly with hot water. Some feel that using soap on their steamer causes it to absorb the taste and future meals will taste soapy, so only use a small amount and only when you absolutely have to.

4. Once your steamer is clean, gently blot it with a soft cloth to get rid of excess water.

5. Place the steamer in a well ventilated spot, out of the direct sun, and allow it to fully air dry before putting it away.

Tips & Warnings

• In order to help eliminate getting food cooked to the inside of your steamer, experiment with different liners you can use to protect the edges. Banana leaves, napa cabbage, wax paper or a glass pie plate are just some of the things you can use.