How to Adapt a Stockpot to a Steamer

You've found a perfect dinner recipe, except it calls for the use of a steamer and you don't have one. With a bit of ingenuity, you can use items already in your kitchen to make a simple steamer that can cook everything from fish to tamales. There are two very simple ways that will adapt a stockpot into a steamer, without having to rush to the store to purchase a steamer basket.

Things You'll Need

• 8 qt. or larger stockpot
• Metal colander
• Wire ties (optional)
• Small linen, cotton or terrycloth dish towel
• 4 custard cups
• Round cake rack

Instructions

Method One

1. Pour three to four inches of water into the stockpot.

2. Suspend a metal colander over the opening of the stockpot.

3. Use wire ties to tie the handles of the colander to the handles of the stockpot if the fit of the colander is too loose to stay secure on its own.

4. Bring the water to a boil and place the food to be cooked in the colander. Cover the colander with the lid of the stockpot and steam for the recommended amount of time.

Method Two

1. Fold a small dish towel to fit the bottom of the stockpot. Place the dishtowel in the bottom of the stockpot.

2. Place four custard cups, upside down, on top of the dish towel.

3. Fill the stockpot with approximately 1 1/2 to 2 inches of water.

4. Place a round cake rack on top of the custard cups.

5. Place the food to be steamed on the rack and cook according to directions.

Tips & Warnings

• If you do not have custard cups, any heat-proof small jars or bowls will work. The key is to keep the rack above the water.

References

• Talk About Curing Autism: Entrees-Pork (under tamale recipe)
• California BBQ Association: Tamales