Are you looking for quick and delicious meal ideas that won’t heat up your kitchen? Look no further! Steaming is a great way to cook a variety of dishes without losing their nutrients or flavor. From seafood to vegetables, meat to desserts, there’s something for everyone in this collection of 18 flavorful steamer recipes.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world with recipes that showcase the versatility and simplicity of steaming. Whether you’re a busy professional looking for a healthy lunch option or a home cook seeking inspiration for a special occasion, these recipes are sure to impress. So go ahead, get steaming, and discover a whole new world of flavors and textures!
Steamed Garlic Butter Shrimp
Elevate your seafood game with this quick and flavorful recipe that combines succulent shrimp with aromatic garlic butter.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and are cooked through.
4. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside. Leave the garlic butter mixture in the skillet.
5. Add the remaining tablespoon of butter to the skillet and stir until melted. Stir in lemon juice.
6. Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss with the garlic butter sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Chinese Steamed Buns with Pork Filling
Experience the authentic taste of China with these soft, fluffy steamed buns filled with savory pork and spices.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon instant yeast
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Filling ingredients:
+ 1 pound ground pork
+ 1/4 cup finely chopped scallions
+ 2 cloves garlic, minced
+ 1 tablespoon soy sauce
+ 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
+ Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and warm water. Mix until smooth.
2. Add milk, oil, and scallions. Knead for 10 minutes until dough forms.
3. Divide dough into 8-10 equal pieces. Roll each into a ball and flatten slightly.
4. Place pork filling in the center of each bun. Fold and seal edges.
5. Steam buns over boiling water for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Steamed Lemon Herb Salmon
A bright and citrusy twist on a classic dish, this steamed salmon recipe is perfect for a light and flavorful weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your steamer basket with 2 inches of water.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the salmon fillets in the steamer basket and brush the top of each fillet with the lemon herb mixture.
4. Steam for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through to your desired level of doneness.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Vegetable Steamed Dumplings
Elevate your dinner game with these delicious and healthy vegetable steamed dumplings! This recipe combines the comforting warmth of a traditional Asian-style dumpling with the added nutrition of sautéed vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as carrots, zucchini, bell peppers, and green onions), finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large pot with a steamer basket or a metal strainer lined with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped vegetables, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well.
3. Lay a wonton wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the vegetable mixture in the center of the wrapper.
4. Dip your finger in water and run it along the edges of the wrapper. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point, and press the edges together to seal the dumpling.
5. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
6. Steam the dumplings for 8-10 minutes or until they float to the surface.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Steamed Miso Glazed Eggplant
This recipe elevates the humble eggplant to new heights by combining the natural sweetness of the vegetable with the savory, umami flavor of miso. The result is a delightful and easy-to-make side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants
– 2 tablespoons white miso paste
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons water
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the steamer basket in a pot filled with 2 inches of water.
2. Slice the eggplants into 1-inch thick rounds.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together miso paste, honey, soy sauce, and water until smooth.
4. Brush both sides of the eggplant slices with the miso glaze.
5. Place the eggplant slices in the steamer basket, leaving some space between each slice.
6. Steam for 12-15 minutes, or until the eggplants are tender and slightly caramelized.
7. Drizzle with sesame oil and season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Fluffy Steamed Coconut Rice
A flavorful and aromatic side dish that pairs well with a variety of cuisines, this fluffy steamed coconut rice is a delightful addition to any meal. With the added richness of shredded coconut and a hint of saltiness, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1 tablespoon salt
– 1 tablespoon coconut oil
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, water, shredded coconut, and salt.
3. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and cover with a tight-fitting lid.
4. Simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is fluffy.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the coconut oil.
6. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Steamed Ginger Soy Chicken
A flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the warmth of ginger with the savory taste of soy sauce, all wrapped up in tender chicken breasts.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the chicken breasts and pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a small bowl, combine ginger slices, soy sauce, water, and honey. Stir until sugar dissolves.
3. Place the chicken breasts in a steamer basket over boiling water. Cover with a lid.
4. Steam for 12-15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
5. Brush the ginger-soy mixture evenly over the chicken during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
6. Remove from heat, and let rest for 1 minute before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Thai Steamed Fish with Lime and Chili
Savor the bold flavors of Thailand with this quick and easy recipe for steamed fish, infused with the brightness of lime and heat of chili.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole fish (such as tilapia or catfish), scaled and gutted
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon Thai red curry paste
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1-2 Thai bird’s eye chilies, seeded and chopped (depending on desired heat level)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat a steamer basket over boiling water.
2. In a small bowl, mix together oil, garlic, ginger, curry paste, and chili.
3. Place the fish in the steamer basket and brush the mixture evenly over the fish.
4. Pour lime juice over the fish and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Steam for 8-10 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
6. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Steamed Spinach and Tofu Parcels
This recipe is a great way to enjoy the natural sweetness of spinach and the creaminess of tofu, all wrapped up in a convenient parcel. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Wonton wrappers (about 12-15)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a steamer basket over boiling water.
2. In a bowl, mix together tofu, spinach, olive oil, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
3. Lay a wonton wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the tofu-spinach mixture in the center.
4. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point. Press edges to seal.
5. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
6. Steam parcels for 8-10 minutes, or until the spinach is tender and the wonton wrappers are cooked through.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Steamed Honey Glazed Carrots
Elevate your side dish game with this simple and flavorful recipe that combines the natural sweetness of carrots with a hint of honey and a touch of savory notes. This sweet and sticky glaze is perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to holiday feasts.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 medium-sized carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, bring 2 inches of water to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to low and place chopped carrots in a steamer basket.
3. Cover the saucepan with a lid and steam carrots for 12-15 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
4. Meanwhile, mix honey and olive oil in a small bowl.
5. Remove carrots from heat and brush the honey glaze evenly over the top of each carrot.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Steamed Banana Bread Pudding
A warm and comforting dessert perfect for a cozy evening. This Steamed Banana Bread Pudding combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the richness of bread pudding, all wrapped up in a tender and fluffy package.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 loaf of stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
Instructions:
1. Preheat the steamer to high heat.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, bread cubes, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and eggs. Pour the mixture over the banana-bread mixture and stir until the bread is fully saturated.
4. Place the pudding mixture in a heatproof bowl or mold and steam for 25-30 minutes, or until the pudding is puffed and set.
5. Serve warm, topped with your choice of whipped cream, caramel sauce, or chopped nuts.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Steamed Clams in White Wine Sauce
A classic seafood dish that’s simple to prepare and bursting with flavor. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds fresh clams, scrubbed clean
– 1/4 cup white wine (dry)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the clams under cold water and place them in a large pot with a lid.
2. Add the white wine, butter, garlic, and lemon juice to the pot.
3. Cover the pot and steam the clams over medium-high heat until they open, about 8-10 minutes.
4. Remove the clams from the pot and set them aside.
5. Strain the cooking liquid through a fine-mesh sieve into a saucepan, discarding the solids.
6. Bring the liquid to a simmer and cook until reduced by half, stirring occasionally.
7. Serve the steamed clams with the white wine sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Steamed Broccoli with Sesame Drizzle
Elevate a simple side dish into a flavorful and healthy delight by pairing steamed broccoli with a savory sesame drizzle. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or as a nutritious addition to your next meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch of broccoli, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons of water
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 teaspoon of grated ginger
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a medium pot with 2 inches of water and bring to a boil.
2. Add the broccoli and cover the pot. Steam for 3-5 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.
4. Remove the broccoli from the pot and drizzle with the sesame mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with sesame seeds, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Steamed Chocolate Lava Cake
Elevate your dessert game with this unique steamed chocolate lava cake recipe, featuring a gooey center and a velvety exterior.
Ingredients:
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, at room temperature
– 1/4 cup (60g) all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup (60g) semisweet chocolate chips
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat your steamer to high heat.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, cocoa powder, and salt until well combined.
3. Add milk, flour, and vanilla extract; whisk until smooth.
4. Melt chocolate chips in the microwave or over a double boiler; let cool slightly.
5. Pour batter into 6 (1-cup) ramekins or small cups.
6. Place ramekins in the steamer basket, leaving space between each cake.
7. Steam for 12-15 minutes or until edges are set and centers are still slightly jiggly.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Steamed Pork and Cabbage Rolls
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that combines tender pork and crispy cabbage with the comforting warmth of steaming. This recipe yields a delicious and easy-to-make meal perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground pork
– 1/2 cup finely chopped cabbage
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 8-10 wonton wrappers (about 3 inches square)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine ground pork, chopped cabbage, soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the pork mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point. Press the edges together to seal the filling inside.
4. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
5. Arrange the rolls on a large piece of parchment paper or a silicone mat, leaving some space between each roll.
6. Steam the rolls over boiling water for 12-15 minutes, or until the pork is cooked through and the cabbage is tender.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Steamed Jasmine Tea Infused Chicken
A delicate and aromatic dish perfect for a relaxing evening or as a unique addition to your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 quart water
– 2 teaspoons jasmine tea leaves
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat steamer basket with 2 inches of water.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, and olive oil.
3. Add chicken breasts to the marinade and toss to coat. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes.
4. Bring the jasmine tea leaves to a boil in the quart of water. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Place chicken breasts in the steamer basket and steam for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional jasmine tea leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Steamed Pumpkin with Coconut Milk
This recipe brings together the natural sweetness of pumpkin and the creamy richness of coconut milk, perfect for a side dish or as a base for other recipes. With minimal ingredients and effort, you’ll have a delicious and nutritious addition to your meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 small to medium-sized pumpkin (about 2 lbs)
– 1 can full-fat coconut milk
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the steamer basket over boiling water.
2. Cut the pumpkin in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds and pulp, and place it in the steamer basket.
3. Steam the pumpkin for 30-40 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
4. Open the can of coconut milk and stir in the unsalted butter until melted and well combined.
5. Once the pumpkin is cooked, remove it from the heat and pour the coconut milk mixture over it.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Steamed Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal
Start your day with a warm and comforting bowl of Steamed Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal, infused with the sweetness of apples and the warmth of cinnamon.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup water or milk
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
– 1 medium apple, peeled and chopped (about 1/2 cup)
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, bring the water or milk to a simmer.
2. Add the oats, cinnamon, and honey or maple syrup (if using). Whisk until the oats are well coated.
3. Reduce heat to low and cover the saucepan with a lid.
4. Steam the mixture for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oats have absorbed most of the liquid and reached your desired consistency.
5. Add the chopped apple and stir gently to combine.
6. Serve warm, garnished with additional cinnamon or a sprinkle of sugar (if desired).
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Enjoy your delicious and comforting Steamed Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal!
Summary
Looking for quick and delicious meals? Look no further! This article features 18 flavorful steamer recipes that are perfect for a speedy dinner. From seafood to meat, vegetables, and even desserts, there’s something for everyone. Try Steamed Garlic Butter Shrimp, Chinese Steamed Buns with Pork Filling, or Steamed Lemon Herb Salmon, among many others. With minimal cooking time and maximum flavor, these steamer recipes are sure to become a staple in your kitchen.