How to Use a Chinese Bamboo Steamer

Steaming food with a Chinese-style bamboo steamer is a great way to make delicious, low fat recipes in your wok. Commonly steamed foods include dumplings like wontons, vegetables, or fish parcels. While it may seem complicated, it is actually very simple to use a bamboo steamer. Below are instructions on how to get started if you've never used a wok and bamboo steamer before.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Wok
• Bamboo Steamer
• Water
• Food to Steam

1. Use a clean, seasoned wok. If your wok is unseasoned, you can first season it by heating the wok on the stove top, and rubbing it repeatedly with peanut oil.

2. Set the bamboo steamer into the wok. Fill the wok roughly 1/3 of the way with water. It is very important that you use the right amount of water. If you use too little, the water can boil off and scald the wok. If you use too much, it will boil up onto the food.

3. On medium heat, bring the water to a boil. Wait until you see a rolling boil.

4. Carefully arrange your food inside the bamboo steamer. Be very cautious of burns. You may wish to use tongs to place the food inside the steamer.
   
   Some people like to first place a layer of cabbage or lettuce underneath the food in the steamer, which can prevent the food from sticking. This is very helpful with sticky foods like dumplings or wontons.

5. Cover the bamboo steamer. Allow the water to boil rapidly. The steam will circulate inside of the bamboo steamer, evenly cooking the food.

Tips & Warnings

• To avoid steam burns, always lift the lid of the walk away from your body.
• Wrist burns can occur if steam or hot water are expelled as you lift the wok lid, so use caution.