Is a bamboo steamer worth it?
A bamboo steamer is a relatively inexpensive addition to your kitchen cupboard and really is an essential piece for individuals who want an easy and convenient option to cook homebased meals in a way that preserves the flavor, texture, minerals, and nutrients of their food.
What sizes do bamboo steamers come in?
The standard size for bamboo steamers is 10 inches, but smaller and larger ones are available. You’ll need a large pot, deep pan, or preferably a wok to insert your bamboo steamer into unless you also buy a steamer ring.
Is a bamboo steamer better than a metal one?
Bamboo steamers have a tightly woven lid that keeps steam from escaping. The process is sometimes slower than using a metal basket, but it’s also more effective; bamboo absorbs some of the excess moisture while cooking, rather than allowing the steam to re-condense into water and drip back onto your food.
Do bamboo steamers get moldy?
The last thing you want is your bamboo steamer to develop mold. It is, after all, a cooking implement, so mold is an absolute no-no. The best way to remove mold is to take a nylon brush and gently scrub the steamer with lemon oil or a 2:1 water-vinegar solution.
What can I use instead of bamboo steamer?
Alternatively you can craft a makeshift steaming rig with aluminum foil and dinner plate. Make a few large balls of foil (they should be big enough to elevate a plate inside your steaming pot of choice), fill the pot with about an inch of water, add the foil balls, and then weigh them down with a dinner plate.
Can you use a metal steamer instead of a bamboo one?
A metal steamer gets a bit hotter than a bamboo one, meaning the bottom of the food might be a bit crisper. That can be useful, or not – making dumplings or other bread products, lower heat means less sticking to the wrapper/steamer.
What size steamer do I need?
If space is at a premium, choose a taller model rather than wider and one that has baskets that stack one inside the other. Most steamers are around 9 litres, which is big enough to cook a meal for four. If cooking for one to three people, it might be better to opt for a smaller steamer that will take up less space.
How much should a bamboo steamer cost?
Unlike some other types of steamers, ones made of bamboo are very affordable. Compact, two-tier steamers often cost less than $20. The priciest ones cost a little over $40 and usually include extra accessories.
How long does a bamboo steamer last?
Cover with the lid and cook until food is done (depending on size and thickness of pieces, vegetables can take just a few minutes, fish fillets about 10 minutes and chicken pieces can take anywhere from 20 to 45 minutes or so). Careful!
What advantage do bamboo steamers have over more modern types of steamers?
A bamboo steamer will absorb most of the moisture from the steam. This absorption will obstruct the over-boiling of the food products and control the humidity inside the walls of the bamboo container. Plastic or metallic steamers fail to do this absorption, so humidity is not regulated in them.
How do you sterilize a bamboo steamer?
Start off by getting a black tea bag and soaking it in hot water. Once soaked, gently rub the tea bag on your bamboo steamer. This will get rid of any remaining food and bacteria at the same time!
How do you clean bamboo steamers?
To clean your bamboo steamer, wash with a sponge and mild dish soap, and immediately rinse thoroughly. Let the steamer air dry for at least 2 days before storing to prevent any mold or mildew. Do not put your bamboo steamer in the dishwasher. Do not soak it in water in the sink for more than 5 minutes.