Now not all of us are willing to invest in a steamer or have the money to invest in a steamer but most of us are willing to invest in a healthier lifestyle in the least costly manner.

One thing is clear that steamers have not always been around and before the invention of a steamer, there was a way through which people were able to steam their vegetables.

So today we will be looking at various different methods that are viable alternatives for you to use if you do not have a steamer at home using utensils that are already accessible or can be found in your kitchen.

Ways to Steam without a Steamer

  • The metal strainer method

So the first method is quite simple all you need for this method is a pot, water, and a strainer. Fill the pot with water make sure you do not add too much water.

Approximately an inch of water is required because the water would just be used to produce the steam, as it will be boiling so not much water is required. The next step is to put your strainer over the top of the pot.

A strainer with a heat resistant handle or the one that can simply sit on top would be advisable. Bring the water to a boil then lower the steam so that it is only bubbling.

Place the strainer o top and over the pot with a lid make sure it is covered properly so that the steam remains inside. The steaming time will vary depending on what you are steaming but this is a nice and easy method of steaming your food without a steamer.

  • The tin foil method

Usually, not all of us have access to strainers so another method that can be used is the tin foil method which is yet another very easy method.

Make three balls of tin foil and place them at the bottom of the pot. Then place a plate on top of these tin foils, which will carry the food that you want to steam.

Slowly bring the water to a simmering position don’t boil and let it bubble slowly producing steam in the pot. Cover the pot with a lid and voila you have your very own makeshift steamer at home.

In this case, as well the steaming time will vary depending on what you are trying to steam. However, this is yet another very simple and easy way of steaming your food over the stovetop without a steamer.

  • The splatter screen method to steam without a steamer

Like a strainer, a splatter screen can be used as a good alternative to assist you in steaming your food in an easy way for which you would not require a steamer. All you need is a pot, water, and a splatter screen.

The steps are similar to the ones mentioned in the metal strainer method the only difference would be that instead of using a strainer we would be using a splatter screen. Place the splatter screen upside down on the top of the pot and place your vegetables on top.

Cover the top of the pot with the lid to trap the steam from escaping and now you will be able to steam whatever you want. The cooking time would vary depending on what you are trying to cook so might have to check from time to time to see the progress.

  • The oven method and the cooling rack

Now, this is slightly an unconventional method of steaming your food but more or less it gives you the results that you want by following some simple steps.

For this method, you will need an oven, a cooling rack, and a pot. Heat up your oven preferably at a temperature of 200*F. Then take a pot to fill it about an inch with boiling water. Then the next step is to place a rack over the top of the pot and place whatever you want to steam right on top.

A single layer of food is recommended so that they can all cook evenly. The next step is to cover the entire makeshift steamer with a tin foil so that you are able to trap in the steam when the water starts boiling. Then place the contraption that you have created in the oven and let the oven do its magic.

So, there you have it four very simple and easy methods that you can use to steam without a steamer at home without purchasing a steamer with the help of things that are easily available in your kitchen. These methods even though might seem a bit weird but trust me they work out perfectly and are not that time consuming as well. So try out all four methods and then stick with the one that you find the most convenient.

What can I use instead of a steamer?

If you don’t steam food frequently—‚or if you find yourself in need of a steaming basket, stat—don’t run out and buy one. All you need is a metal colander or a baking rack, a big pot, and some aluminum foil, and you’ve got everything you need to make a steamer at home.

How do you make steamed dumplings without a steamer?

Add a few inches of water, bring to a boil, then lower to a medium simmer. Rub a little sesame oil on the plate, then place as many dumplings as will fit on top (without crowding). Gently lower the plate onto the foil balls, then cover pot with a lid. Let steam for 7-8 minutes or until cooked through.

How long does it take to steam a dumpling?

Steam dumplings for 15 to 20 minutes or until tender and cooked through.

Can I steam dumplings in the microwave?

Place a microwave-safe plate on top to cover the bowl, then microwave on high power until the dumplings are cooked through, about three minutes.

Can you steam in a microwave?

Place them into a microwave-safe dish. Add 1-2 tablespoons of water (a little more if you‘re steaming multiple portions). Place in the microwave and pop a lid on top to keep the steam in. Microwave on high!

How do you steam buns in the microwave?

Place your buns on a microwave-safe plate. Put a small cup of water next to the plate. Microwave for about 1 minute until piping hot. Add slightly more time if necessary—but not too much or your buns will dry out.

How long does it take to steam rice dumplings?

Su Hsiu-yueh (蘇秀悅), a nutritionist from Taipei Medical University Hospital, said small rice dumplings purchased from a market should be steamed for at least 20 minutes and bigger ones for about 40 minutes to ensure they are heated sufficiently.

How long does it take to steam Zongzi?

Zongzi may be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks and, if well wrapped, in the freezer for 2 months. To reheat zongzi from the refrigerator, boil for 10 to 15 minutes or steam over high heat for 30 minutes.

How long should you steam Zongzi?

Cook: They need to be boiled in water for about 2.5 hours. You should place a heavy plate on top of the Zongzi to stop them floating (my mum used to put a flat stone instead).

How do you steam Machang?

To recook frozen machang, straight from the freezer, boil it for one hour, a little longer if you are cooking more than one piece. Don’t be impatient and open the lid frequently. For cold machang, boil for 20 minutes.

How do you steam rice with banana leaves?

Method:
  1. Add rice, water, salt, and pepper to a pot and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover and simmer for about 15 minutes.
  2. Roll banana leaves around a tube (an empty paper towel roll works perfectly) and secure end with a toothpick.
  3. Steam, with toothpick end down, in a tall pot for about 2 hours.
  4. Let cool and unwrap.

Why do we eat Zong Zi?

Chinese people eat Zongzi during the Dragon Boat Festival to memorialize Qu Yuan, a famous Chinese poet who lived 2300 years ago in State of Chu inWarring States Period. In order to keep his body safe in the water, many people threw Zongzi into the river to prevent the fishes from eating his body.

How do you cook with banana leaves?

Banana leaves are used to wrap marinated fish or meat, for grilling or sticky (glutinous) rice for boiling; similar to cooking “en papilotte”. Often banana leaves are also used as a lining of bamboo or wooden platters or plates for food to be served on it.

How long do banana leaves last?

We recommend trying to use them ASAP, but if you plan on cooking with them later (or have leftovers), the leaves should be good for about a week in your fridge, or about six months in the freezer, as long as they are tightly wrapped in plastic to prevent drying out, according to The New Food Lover’s Companion.

Can you boil banana leaves?

Banana leaves are not eaten, but commonly used to wrap foods which are then steamed, boiled, grilled or even baked. The leaves impart a wonderful aroma and lovely color to foods they are wrapped in.

Are banana leaves poisonous?

No, banana leaves can’t poison you. For what we know, the banana plant is safe in every aspect. From ancient times, people used large banana leaves to wrap their food up and carry it with them. So, raw banana leaves are ideal for even the most humid fruit and vegetables.

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