How to Build a Steam Cooker & a Crab Steamer

Cook crabs, shrimp,vegetables and a host of other foods with a makeshift steam cooker.

Besides being one of the oldest methods of cooking, steaming is also one of the quickest and most efficient ways to prepare food. To prepare a delectable dinner of crabs and veggies, steaming is the way to go. Along with ease of preparation, steaming food also has several health benefits. Steam cooking is healthier than other methods of cooking, including frying and boiling, because steamed food retains all of its nutrients, as well as its original taste and smell.

Things You'll Need

• Knife
• Disposable aluminum pan
• Large stockpot
• Large metal bowl
• Stove or electric burner

Instructions

Preparation

1. Punch a series of holes in the aluminum pan with your knife. The result should leave you with a pan that looks similar to a strainer or a colander, which are both bowl-shaped with holes, often used to drain spaghetti noodles or vegetables.

2. Take your large stock pot and fill it with water. Because water evaporates during the steaming process, include enough water to last throughout the cooking time. Bring the water to a boil on the stove or electric burner.

3. Place the pan, which can now take in the steam vapors, on top of the pot. Stabilize the pan so it does not fall off. Taking the food items you wish to steam, place them in the makeshift strainer.

4. Place the metal bowl bottom-side up on top of the make shift strainer. The bowl locks in the steam and moisture.

5. After successfully steaming your food, carefully remove the bowl and the makeshift strainer.

Tips & Warnings

• For a steam cooker/crab steamer that'll last longer, purchase an aluminum pan and drill holes in it.<Reference 4>

• Be careful when using a sharp knife. Never point a knife toward yourself or anyone around you. When cutting, ensure the tip of the knife is pointed away from you.

• When cooking around fire, be aware of any loose garments or items that risk catching fire.

• Use kitchen rags or an oven mitt to remove the hot metal bowl and strainer off the stockpot

References

• Steamrollers.com: The Benefits of Cooking Food With Steam
• Chinese Food Recipes: Chinese Cooking Methods -- Steamings

Resources

• Cooks.com: Steamed Blue Crabs