How to Steam

Steaming (sometimes simply abbreviated to steam) is a method that involves cooking food solely with steam from water, without immersing it in the water itself or in oil. For this, a container with holes is usually used where the food goes, and this container is placed above another one containing boiling water, which must not touch the food in the first container. This cooking method is commonly used as a healthier option, as steamed foods lose fewer nutrients than boiled ones. (Source: Wikipedia)This cooking method is widely used for various dishes where a more natural flavor is desired, and in this way, a different flavor and healthier foods are also achieved. Furthermore, foods do not lose as many nutrients with this technique, as many nutrients are preserved compared to other methods like frying.Some advantages of steaming include:All types of fats or oils are eliminated.Foods are not subjected to harmful frying.Vitamins and minerals of steamed products are not altered.The natural aromas and flavors of each food are preserved.The food turns out very juicy.There is no need to turn meats and fish; they cook evenly.The food neither sticks nor burns.There are containers or pots that allow cooking more than one dish at a time.Steaming is quick and light. Whether you cook with an electric steamer, a pot, or bamboo baskets, here are some tips to ensure all your recipes turn out delicious:Multiple dishes To save time in the kitchen, you can prepare several recipes at once or a main dish with its side. For this, place each food on a different level of the steamer or basket, and they will cook with the same steam. Don't forget to put the ones that need more cooking time first so that everything is ready at the same time.Fish Fish turns out delicious when steamed, but you should know that they cook better if they are whole or in large pieces. If you steam them in small pieces, you risk them becoming too dry.Meat To prevent meats from coming out a bit bland in flavor or dry in texture, it is best to prepare them before steaming. Mix spices or aromatic herbs like rosemary, sage, tarragon, with a bit of olive oil, and let the meat marinate for a few hours or brush it with the mixture before cooking.Vegetables When you want to prepare vegetables steamed, cut them into similar-sized pieces or choose regular-sized pieces (in the case of Brussels sprouts, asparagus, potatoes...) so that they all cook at the same time and to the same point. All vegetables are perfect for steaming, except for large-leaf ones like Swiss chard and spinach, as they lose color and flavor.With bamboo basket If you use a bamboo basket for steaming, remember that it must fit perfectly in the pot underneath, as if the basket is smaller, it will get wet, and if it is larger, it can burn, and the steam will escape from the sides, causing the food not to cook properly. To keep the bamboo in perfect condition, never wash it with water and soap; instead, clean it gently with a damp cloth and then let it dry.Cooking RecipesNow that we are aware of the advantages of steaming, we would like to offer you a list of recipes that use this technique. They are delicious, easy to prepare, and very nutritious.(we recommend clicking on the recipe title for more preparation details)Steamed Vegetables. This side dish is for all those vegetable lovers. It is healthy, low in fat, and retains all the nutrients of the vegetables.Sushi Rice. Delicious and original rice for sushi.Lobster Ceviche. Lobster ceviche is a rich, elegant recipe and a very good option for a special dinner. This recipe is not only very tasty but also very easy.Tuna Vietnamese Rolls. Tuna rolls wrapped in rice paper and lettuce with mint in a spicy soy sauce.Broccoli with Garlic and Vinaigrette. A flavorful option for steamed broccoli. This recipe is very light and delicious.Cauliflower Purée that Looks Like Potato. This cauliflower purée looks like potato purée. No one will believe you that it isn't made from potatoes.Chayote Purée. Delicious chayote purée to introduce babies to vegetables. It is very easy to make at home.Beef Fillet in Puff Pastry. Delicious beef Wellington-style fillet, wrapped in puff pastry and mushrooms with a creamy tomato sauce. To discover more steamed recipes from kiwilimón, click here.