Steam cooking is a technique that uses steam to cook food. This method involves placing food in bowls or on trays and steamers to prevent direct contact with water, which is then placed in a pot of water. Steam cooking helps retain the nutrition, freshness, and flavor of the food.
1 What is Steam Cooking?
Steam cooking is a method that uses the heat of steam to cook food. Food is typically placed in bowls, plates, or steamers to prevent direct contact with water, and then placed in a pot of water. This technique helps to preserve the nutrition, freshness, and original flavor of the food.
Some typical steamed dishes include steamed fish, steamed chicken, and steamed cakes.
What is Steam Cooking?
2 Benefits of Steam Cooking
Preserves Nutritional Value
Food contains proteins, various vitamins, and minerals that are beneficial to the body. Overcooking meat can denature proteins and cooking certain vegetables for too long can reduce their vitamin content.
Steam cooking, however, helps to preserve proteins, vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients in food. This method prevents direct contact with flames and liquids such as water and oil, thus retaining more nutrients in the food.
Retains Natural Flavor, Color, and Shape
Other cooking methods often alter the shape, color, and flavor of food. For example, frying fish for too long can make the meat dry and lose its natural sweetness, and incorrect frying can cause the fish to break apart.
Steam Cooking Retains Flavor and Nutrition
Steam cooking helps to retain the original flavor, color, and shape of the food. This method is particularly beneficial for vegetables as it helps to preserve their natural flavors.
Reduces Cholesterol Intake
Steam cooking does not use oil or fat, which reduces the intake of saturated and trans fats. Additionally, this method helps to remove a significant amount of fat from meat, thereby reducing the calorie content of the dish.
Saves Cooking Time
Steam cooking only requires simple equipment and a set cooking time. Moreover, you can cook multiple dishes simultaneously using a convenient steamer pot, such as cooking rice and steaming chicken in one pot.
Benefits of Steam Cooking
3 How to Steam Cook on a Gas Stove and Rice Cooker
Steam Cooking on a Gas Stove
You can use a dedicated steamer pot or a regular cooking pot. Place the food in a steamer basket, bowl, or plate.
Note: The container should be higher than the bottom of the pot to prevent water from entering the food.
Depending on the amount of food, adjust the water level to avoid insufficient or excessive water, which can spill into the food.
After placing the food in the pot, cover the pot and turn on the heat until the food is thoroughly cooked.
Steam Cooking on a Gas Stove
Steam Cooking with a Rice Cooker
Pour a moderate amount of water into the rice cooker, depending on the amount of food to be steamed.
Note: Do not add too much water, as it may spill into the food.
Each rice cooker comes with a steamer rack. Place the rack inside and arrange the food neatly. Maintain some distance between the food items to allow steam to circulate and cook the food evenly.
After arranging the food, cover the rice cooker and select the cooking or steaming mode, depending on your rice cooker model.
Once the food is cooked, you can serve it.
Steam Cooking with a Rice Cooker
4 Tips for Steam Cooking
When steam cooking, it is important to bring the water to a full boil. During the cooking process, open the lid at least twice to let the steam escape, preventing water condensation on the lid and ensuring that the food remains tender and flavorful.
Fish and seafood are ideal for steam cooking. You can use a small amount of salt during steaming or add mild spices like lemongrass and ginger to reduce the fishy smell and enhance the aroma of the dish. Avoid strong spices like garlic, which can overpower the natural flavor of the food.
For certain dishes, you can line the steamer rack with salt to impart a unique flavor. Additionally, you can steam dishes with beer or coconut water for a distinct taste.
Tips for Steam Cooking
We hope this article provided you with the necessary information about steam cooking. This cooking method will help make your family meals more nutritious and delicious.
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