Steaming is one of the easiest and healthiest methods of preparing veggies. If you’re wondering how to use a vegetable steamer for steaming vegetables, meat, seafood, and more, you’re in the right place.
But how do you steam veggies with a vegetable steamer? Do you just boil some water, add your ingredients, cover, and leave the rest to the steamer? Honestly, it can be just that simple. It depends on who you ask. You’ll be surprised how many people don’t know how to use a vegetable steamer.
Steamer Basket vs. Electric Steamer vs. Bamboo Steamer: Which One Should You Use?
Before you learn how to use a vegetable steamer or food steamer, it’s essential to know the right steamer to use.

Note that you can use any of these to steam vegetables.
- Steamer basket
- Steamer basket for Instant Pot
- Electric vegetable steamer
- Instant Pot
- Pressure cooker
- Sistema microwave steamer
- A rice cooker that doubles as a food steamer to steam vegetable recipes
In this article, we’re mostly covering the electric food steamer and the vegetable steamer basket.
So without further ado, let’s find out the options available to create the perfect steamed vegetables.
Steamer Basket

One of the most methods for steaming vegetables is the vegetable steamer basket, sometimes called a steamer insert or colander. A vegetable steamer basket is a simple houseware that you’re supposed to insert in a pot or pan with water and then use on your stovetop or inside the microwave.
Bamboo Steamer

Another type of steamer that falls within this category for steaming vegetable dishes is the bamboo steamer. Like the steamer basket, you should insert the bamboo steamer inside a pot and cook it on your stovetop. Also like the steamer basket, be sure the water doesn’t come into contact with the food.
Bamboo food steamers consist of two or three steamer basket parts sitting on each other.
Microwave Food Steamer

You also have the option of getting a steamer explicitly made for microwave use. Microwave steamers come in different microwave-safe materials such as ceramic, plastic, silicone, and polycarbonate.
Electric Steamer

If you want a steamer that gives you more freedom, an electric steamer is a way to go. This type of steamer has integrated heating systems, so you won’t have to use them over a stove.
Here are some of the benefits of an electric steamer:
- The best thing about electric food steamers is that you can choose the settings, which gives you more control over how your food turns out.
- Some electric steamers feature multiple tiers, thereby allowing you to prepare large batches.
- Some models shut off automatically when the cooking time is up.
However, you may have to spend a bit more on an electric food steamer compared to the rest. Nevertheless, it’s advisable to research and review each steamer you intend to buy before handing over your money.
Which Foods Can You Cook in a Steamer?
Steaming is one of the healthiest ways to prepare vegetables because it prevents nutrient loss and barely requires the addition of other ingredients.
But did you know you can prepare other foods using a steamer? That’s right. Steaming is a versatile cooking method you can use for different types of food. These include:
Vegetables: How to Steam Broccoli (and More!)

Perfectly steamed vegetables not only provide various nutrients but also have a soft exterior with interior crispiness you’ll enjoy.
However, to achieve excellent results when steaming vegetables, you need to master the correct steaming time for different vegetables. For instance, carrots have a longer steaming time in simmering water or boiling water compared to broccoli.
Keep in mind that the cooking process when steaming vegetables can be different for different types of steamed vegetables. For example, dense steamed veggies like steamed Brussels sprouts will take longer than tender steamed asparagus spears or steamed green beans.

Here are some of the vegetables to cook in a food steamer:
- Potato dishes
- Brussels sprouts
- Fresh vegetables
- Broccoli
- Frozen vegetables
- Green beans
- Whole green beans
- Carrot recipes
- Broccoli florets
- Other root vegetables
To add extra flavor to steamed vegetables when you’re cooking vegetables in a steamer, you can add some lemon juice to your steaming water.
You can also make steamed rice in a food steamer when you steam vegetables. For cooking rice in an electric steamer, follow the instructions that come with your electric steamer.
Poultry

If you’ve been struggling to figure out how to make your chicken moist and tender, steaming is the answer. The ideal candidates for this method of cooking are boneless chicken breasts, Cornish hens, and small whole birds.
For the best results, marinate your chicken first or add some herbs and spices to the water. Also, make sure you cut the pieces on the upper and bottom parts for evenly cooked chicken or turkey.
Seafood

Seafood is probably the easiest food to prepare in a steamer, especially if you don’t know how to use veggie steamers. The reason? You can quickly tell when the food is ready, which minimizes the likelihood of overcooking it.
However, you should know that all seafood takes a different amount of time to steam.
Meats

Steaming meat in a food steamer is also an excellent cooking method for loin cuts, lamb legs, and tender beef. The finished product retains moisture and volume, and it’s very delicious.
But to achieve even results, you need to ensure the steamer or pot is tightly covered.
Top 8 Tips on How to Use a Vegetable Steamer
Now that you know the different types of steamers and how to steam vegetables, here are some tips on how to use a food steamer to steam vegetables that are absolutely delicious.
1. Don’t Add Too Much (or Too Little) Water

The most critical aspect of steaming is water. Adding water seems like a simple step, but here’s where things can go south really fast.
Adding too much water will ruin your food if the water comes into contact with it. On the other hand, when the water is barely enough, there’s a high chance you’ll burn the pan if the water runs out before you’re done steaming.
When you’re using a steamer basket, it’s best to add one to two inches of water to the pot. Keep checking the water to see if you need to add more to prevent the pan from burning.
2. Bring the Water to a Boil Before Adding Veggies to the Vegetable Steamer

When you’re learning how to use a vegetable steamer, it’s tempting to throw everything into the basket, pour the water in the pot, turn it on to let it steam vegetables, and walk away. But don’t make this mistake.
It’s always best to allow the water to boil first before adding your ingredients. Once the water had boiled, add your vegetables to the basket and insert the basket inside the pot. Make sure you cover it to retain the steam for even and efficient cooking.
If it’s our first time learning how to use a veggie steamer, it may help to experiment with turning the heat up and down once in a while to see which setting gives you the best result.
3. Ensure Your Vegetable Steamer Has an Airtight Lid

Does your food end up under-cooked every time you steam it? Can’t seem to figure out what you’re doing wrong? You’re not alone.
Most people face the same challenge when steaming. But before you trade your steamer for another one, you should try sealing your lid tight every time before you begin.
An air-tight seal ensures the steam doesn’t escape, thereby ensuring your food cooks evenly. Besides, you’ll spend less time cooking the food if all the steam remains inside the pot.
If you’re using a steamer basket and can’t seem to control the steam loss, try placing a tea towel between the steamer and the lid.
4. How to Steam Veggies Without Letting Them Get Soggy

When you’re learning how to use a vegetable steaming basket, the most important lesson you should master is how long to steam your foods.
The majority of home chefs face the challenge of controlling the steaming time. Sometimes you get it right, but the food cooks earlier than the rest of the dishes you’re preparing.
The first thing you need to do is to learn how long it takes to steam each food. For instance, it will only take a few minutes to steam vegetables. Therefore, it may help to have them as the last thing to prepare on your list.
Once you’ve figured out the time, you need to learn how to stop the steaming process when the food is ready. Leaving the food inside the pot isn’t a good idea because the hot water will still be releasing steam.
Instead, take it out of the pot and place the basket in a bowl of ice water. You won’t have to deal with soggy food with this tip. You’re welcome!
5. Some Tips for Making Delicious Steamed Vegetables

Contrary to popular belief, steamed vegetables don’t have to be bland. Apart from learning how to use veggie steamers and vegetable steaming baskets, you also need to know how to make your food delicious.
The trick is preparing your ingredients before inserting them into the steamer. Don’t just throw in your vegetables or meats in the appliance. Take the time to add spices, herbs, and garlic, among other things.
- You can also roll the vegetables in olive oil before placing them in the steamer.
- Another excellent tip is to saute some garlic in olive oil and toss your vegetables in after steaming.
- For meats and poultry, consider marinating them for a short time before steaming. When you do this, your food will taste incredible.
6. How to Use a Vegetable Steamer? Get Creative With Flavored Chicken Broth, Beef Broth, or Vegetable Broth

The most common way to steam food is by using water. But don’t limit yourself to strict procedures. With a bit of creativity, you can improve the flavor of your meals and add a personal touch to them.
- Instead of using plain water, consider using vegetable or chicken broth.
- It’s also a good idea to add some lemon to the water before it boils. For an even richer taste, add herbs like rosemary and lemongrass.
These additions will give your food some flavor, but it won’t be as much as you get from adding them directly to the ingredients.
However, you should know that this process may lengthen the cooking time. So beware of this, you don’t want to end up overcooking your food.
7. How to Use a Vegetable Steamer with the Best Utensils

If you’re using an improvised steamer, it’s best to use the proper tools. Stay away from plastic. Although it may not melt inside the steamer, the sides of the container may get stuck to the pot, which will be a big mess.
Stick to heat-resistant, microwave-safe, and oven-proof utensils. Also, make sure you cool your utensils on the counter to avoid shocking or cracking the glass if you’re using a steamer with glass parts.
8. How to Use a Vegetable Steamer Without Making a Mess
When steaming foods like dumplings and Leche flan, you’ll notice that they have a lot of water on the surface. There’s a simple trick you can use to prevent this.
Use plastic wrap or foil over the food before you start steaming. During the steaming process, all the water will collect on the plastic or foil, thus preventing it from getting into contact with your food.

Now That You Know How to Use a Vegetable Steamer, You’re Ready to Start Cooking
If you didn’t know how to use a vegetable steamer, now you know. So don’t waste any more time, use these tips on how to use a veggie steamer the next time you want to steam foods and impress all your guests!
Don’t forget to be creative and try different recipes for the best results.