Hey, ya ever tried makin’ them steam dishes? Lemme tell ya, these steamed dishes might look all fancy-like, but they’re easy as pie once ya get the hang of it. Steam cookin’ ain’t just for rice or veggies neither; you can steam meat, fish, dumplings, all sorts! So grab yerself a steamer basket if ya got one, or even a metal rack if ya don’t, and I’ll tell ya how to get some tasty meals outta it.
What’s Good ‘Bout Steamin’?
First off, steamin’s a kinda easy, healthy way to cook. Since you ain’t usin’ oil or frying nothin’, you get them natural flavors without all the extra grease. Plus, ya keep the vitamins and minerals right there in the food. No fancy-schmancy oven needed; just hot water, a pot, and a cover, and you’re good to go!
Simple Steamed Dishes to Try
Now, let’s get to the good stuff – what ya can actually steam. I’ll tell ya a few of my favorites that come out real tasty and don’t need no expert skills.
- Steamed Fish: Now, steamed fish is a classic! Ya just clean up a nice whole fish like a sea bass or tilapia, sprinkle a bit of salt, garlic, ginger slices, and maybe a dash of soy sauce. Lay it in the steamer, let ‘er cook for about 15-20 minutes, and it’s as tender as can be!
- Steamed Pork Spare Ribs: Spare ribs come out soft and juicy in the steamer too. Chop ‘em up small, toss with a bit of soy sauce, black bean paste if ya got, garlic, and ginger, then just steam for about 30 minutes. They melt in yer mouth, I tell ya.
- Steamed Buns (Bao): Ah, them soft buns are just heavenly. They’re a bit trickier ’cause ya gotta make a dough, but once ya stuff it with pork or veggies and pop it in the steamer, they fluff up like a cloud. Steam ’em for about 10-15 minutes, and you got yerself a warm, pillowy snack.
How to Get Goin’ With Yer Steamer
Now, if ya got a bamboo steamer, that’s great! Put it right on top of a pot with boilin’ water, and the steam goes right through, cookin’ up yer food. But don’t ya fret if ya only got a metal pot or even just a plate that can take heat – just put a bit of water in a big ol’ pot, set a rack or plate on top, cover it tight, and it’ll work just the same.
Some More Tips For Ya
- Cover Tight: Make sure yer steamer or pot’s got a good cover. That steam gotta stay inside to cook the food nice and even.
- Watch the Water: Don’t let yer pot dry out! Keep a bit of extra hot water nearby to add if it’s startin’ to get low.
- Cut Even: When you’re steamin’ meat or veggies, try cuttin’ ’em in similar sizes. That way, they all cook at the same time, and ya don’t end up with raw bits here and there.
Easy Steamed Veggies
If ya got picky eaters, steamin’ veggies can be a trick to make ‘em eat their greens! Broccoli, carrots, and leafy greens like spinach do just great steamed. All ya do is throw ’em in the steamer, cook for a few minutes till they’re soft but still got a bit of crunch, and sprinkle a bit of salt or soy sauce. Quick, easy, and no messin’ around!
Steamin’ Dumplings and Wontons
Now, them dumplings are a crowd-pleaser. If ya got the time, make some pork or veggie dumplings and place ‘em in the steamer. They need ‘bout 10-12 minutes, dependin’ on the size, and they’re ready to eat. You can even freeze extras and pop ‘em in the steamer straight from the freezer – no need to thaw ‘em!
Finishing Thoughts
See, steam cookin’ don’t need no fuss. Once ya try it, you’ll see it’s a simple way to get a tasty, healthy meal on the table. And the best part? Hardly any cleanup! Just a pot and a lid. So give it a try, whether it’s fish, ribs, dumplings, or veggies. Steam cookin’ is as easy as can be, and yer family’s sure to love it!
Tags：[steam dishes, steam cooking, steamed recipes, healthy cooking, easy recipes]