Video: How to Steam Vegetables

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Steaming is one of the best ways to cook vegetables. It leaves more of the vegetable's natural taste, texture and color intact than any other method, and it requires no added fat. It's easy, and you don't even need a steamer!

Difficulty:: Easy

Instructions

Woks
Large Pots
Steamer Sets
Vegetables
Vegetable Steamers
Bamboo Steamers
Chef's Knives

- 1
  
  In a large pot, bring an inch or two of water to a boil over high heat.
- 2
  
  If you're using a steaming rack or a bamboo steamer (works great!) make sure it's clean and have it ready.
- 3
  
  If you don't have a steamer, use aluminum foil to make balls about the size of a baseball. Make enough to cover the bottom of the pot you're using and make sure the water level is well below the tops of the balls. You can use this as a bed for for the veggies.
- 4
  
  When the water is boiling, trim and cut your vegetables. It's best to do this as close to cooking as possible so they won't dehydrate or oxidize.
- 5
  
  Cut all the vegetables the same size so they'll cook evenly.
- 6
  
  Place them in the steamer, on the steamer rack or on the bed of foil balls and cover.
- 7
  
  Steam them only until they're done; most cut vegetables only need to steam for a minute or two. Thicker pieces might steam for two to three minutes. Potatoes take 15 to 30 minutes.
- 8
  
  Serve immediately, because the longer they sit, the mushier they'll get.

Comments

thaylahnthomas092908 Dec 06, 2011
I've been looking everywhere for a cheap steaming rack and never thought to use aluminum foil balls. MAGIC I say!
nilaniluka Sep 07, 2011
wow
nilaniluka Sep 07, 2011
wow
Moni696 Jul 01, 2011
Thanks so much for this video. I have a steam-cooker, but being only one person , it is to much dish-washing afterwards. I bought a small one for the micro-wave, but the veggies come out dry. I made a few aluminium balls and put the plastic-strainer from the microwave-dish on top, and wolla, it works perfect! smile
John Hanlin Dec 08, 2009
Great video! Very helpful. *****