What Is Steaming?
Steaming is an indirect cooking method that uses hot steam generated from water to cook food. It is an ancient and widely used technique worldwide that, when done correctly, helps food retain its nutrition, color, and texture. In China, steamers are stacked high to create colorful platters of dim sum and dumplings. In Vietnam, rice flour is whisked into a slurry and then steamed in a pan to make delicate sheets of rice noodles and rice rolls. In Japan, steamers are used to make gorgeous and fluffy steamed cakes. While especially prevalent in East Asia, the art of steaming is universal. In Mexico, tamales are cooked via steam, and in the United States, seafood boils can be cooked exclusively in a large steamer basket.
Steaming is an incredibly versatile technique that can be applied to almost any cuisine as long as you have the right tools.
The Benefits of Steaming
Toby Amidor, M.S., R.D., C.D.N., says, "You may have heard this before: steaming is one of the best ways to cook veggies so they keep their nutrients. Vitamins are easily destroyed when you cook with water for long periods (i.e., boiling), but steaming uses the steam from boiling water to cook your food, not the water directly. Another advantage of steaming is no added fat or sodium (do you dab butter in a boiling pot of broccoli or load in the salt?). Any veggie you steam will be around 25 calories per half-cup and chock-full of vitamins and minerals."
Equipment for Steaming
Tiered Steamer
There are many different streaming set-ups out there, but the most classic and recommended one is a simple-tiered bamboo steamer. Bamboo absorbs condensation and prevents water from dripping down on the food, which is great for delicate dumplings and desserts. Stainless steel-tiered baskets also work well and are great for steaming robust proteins. The only caveat is that these tiered baskets require a wide enough wok or pot to nestle them in.
Collapsible Steamer Basket
For a simple vegetable medley, a collapsible steamer basket would do just the trick. Add water to any pot, bring it to a boil, lower it in the basket with vegetables, and steam until the vegetables have the desired texture.
Instant Pot
An Instant Pot is another great way to steam and can be used to conjure up egg custards, succulent steamed chicken breast, and tender veggies.
The Ciarra Nosh Oven is an excellent choice for steaming. Its advanced steam oven technology ensures even cooking while retaining moisture, making it perfect for a wide range of dishes. The multifunctional design allows you to steam, bake, and roast, offering versatility and convenience in one compact appliance.
What to Steam
For beginners, vegetables are the best entry-level ingredients. Start with an artichoke head or a plate of broccoli, asparagus, or carrots. Temperature control isn't too important for these ingredients; steam until soft. Graduate to steaming eggplant, an ingredient that needs to be lowered when the water below is already at a rolling boil. The high heat is essential—or else the eggplant will turn brown and unattractive. Time it right, though, and you'll get vibrant, creamy spears of eggplant that can be dressed in vinegar and soy sauce.
Proteins are also extremely easy to steam. Lower fresh bucketfuls of seafood like king crab legs, shrimp, and crayfish into a steamer basket, and then dress with garlic, butter, and your spices of choice. Try your hand at steaming a whole fish: a steamed sea bass with light soy sauce and slivers of scallions is classic. Once you master that, move on to more delicate dishes like homemade dumplings, egg custards, and desserts.
A steamer can also be used in lieu of a microwave to reheat dishes. Because the food is reheated over water, it prevents food from drying out, maintaining its original moisture and flavor.
Conclusion
By understanding the basics of steaming and utilizing the right equipment, including innovative tools like the Ciarra Nosh Oven, you can easily incorporate this healthy cooking method into your culinary repertoire. Steaming not only preserves the nutrients and natural flavors of your food but also offers a versatile and efficient way to prepare a wide range of dishes. Whether you are a novice cook or a seasoned chef, mastering the art of steaming can elevate your cooking game and help you create delicious, nutritious meals effortlessly.