How to Lose Weight with Bamboo Steamer Recipes
Steaming has always been one of the healthiest ways to cook – not to mention the easiest. Bamboo steamers in particular, have been around for thousands of years as a mainstay of Asian cooking, and are still as popular today because they provide one of the most organic ways to steam food.
Weight loss Benefits of Steaming Food
Did you know that you could shave off close to 120 calories off a bowl of veggies when you steam them, versus the calories you get when you bake them?
A bowl of baked chicken has at least 60 calories, but steamed they only amount to 37.1 calories!
Here’s why steaming can make you lose more weight than other cooking methods:
- Cooking with Steam Conserves Nutrients
When you steam your food, it retains most of its mineral and vitamin content better.
Vegetables’ antioxidant properties are also preserved to make your meal the healthiest version it could be.
- You Use No Oil
Since you use no oil to steam your food, you’ll improve your cholesterol levels even more.
You can also appreciate the natural flavor of food more with no added butter or oil to alter food’s original taste.
- You’ll Get to Eat More Healthy Vegetables and Proteins
Bamboo steamer recipes will encourage you to try more vegetables, fish, and chicken dishes which are known to be as filling but won’t pack on the pounds. There's more color and variety, not to mention convenient portion control, that can help make healthy eating easier than you think!
The 3 Best Bamboo Steamers
Mister Kitchenware
Happi Studio
Thodd&Go
How To Use Bamboo Steamers To Cook Food
Bamboo steamers are no brainer kitchen tools that can make cooking a snap.
Here are the most common ways to use a bamboo steamer to cook vegetables and protein:
1. Use a skillet and boil up to 3 inches of water in it, with low heat.
2. Place parchment paper in the bottom steamer, and put your choice of protein in. Salmon or chicken can cook within 12 or 15 minutes – just season with salt and pepper, herbs or drizzle with olive oil.
3. Cover the bottom steamer with the top one to steam your veggies. (Also place parchment paper at the bottom of the top steamer before putting the sliced vegetables in). They can be done in around 8 minutes.
4. Cover the topmost steamer with the bamboo steamer lid.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do bamboo steamers affect the taste or quality of food?
Bamboo steamers are known for their ability to cook food in a gentle and even manner, which can help preserve the flavor and quality of the food. Unlike boiling, frying or grilling, steaming doesn't require any added oils or fats, which can affect the taste and texture of food. Bamboo steamers are also porous, allowing steam to circulate and cook the food evenly.
The natural fragrance and flavor of the bamboo may infuse into the food during cooking, adding a subtle earthy aroma and taste that some people find appealing. However, some people may not like the taste of bamboo, and in those cases, it may be better to use a different type of steamer. Ultimately, the taste and quality of the food cooked in a bamboo steamer will depend on the ingredients used and the cooking method employed.
Can bamboo steamers be reused multiple times?
Yes, bamboo steamers can be reused multiple times with proper care and maintenance. After each use, it is recommended to clean the steamer thoroughly using warm water and a mild soap. Rinse the steamer well and let it air dry completely before storing it in a dry place. It is important to avoid using abrasive cleaners or scrubbers that can damage the surface of the bamboo.
It is also recommended to avoid soaking the steamer in water for extended periods of time, as this can cause the bamboo to warp or crack. Over time, the bamboo may start to develop a patina, which is a natural discoloration that occurs due to repeated use. This is normal and does not affect the performance of the steamer. However, if the bamboo starts to show signs of mold or mildew growth, or if it becomes damaged or cracked, it may be time to replace the steamer.
How do I clean and maintain my bamboo steamer to prevent mold or bacteria growth?
To clean and maintain your bamboo steamer to prevent mold or bacteria growth, you can follow these steps:
After each use, rinse the bamboo steamer with hot water to remove any food residue.
Use a soft brush or sponge and a mild soap to gently clean the bamboo steamer, paying special attention to any areas that may have trapped food particles.
Rinse the bamboo steamer thoroughly with hot water and allow it to air dry completely before storing it.
If you notice any mold or mildew growth on the bamboo steamer, wipe it with a clean, damp cloth dipped in vinegar or lemon juice. This will help kill the mold or mildew spores and prevent them from growing further.
Avoid using harsh detergents or abrasive cleaning tools on your bamboo steamer, as these can damage the surface of the bamboo and promote the growth of bacteria.
If you plan to store your bamboo steamer for an extended period of time, make sure it is completely dry before packing it away in a dry, well-ventilated area.
By following these steps, you can help prevent the growth of mold and bacteria on your bamboo steamer and keep it clean and hygienic for future use.
Are there any health benefits to using bamboo steamers compared to other cooking methods?
Using bamboo steamers can provide some potential health benefits compared to other cooking methods, such as:
Retains Nutrients: Steaming is a gentle cooking method that can help retain the nutritional content of food. Unlike boiling or frying, which can cause some vitamins and minerals to leach out of the food, steaming helps preserve the nutrients.
Low-fat Cooking: Steaming does not require any added fats or oils, which can make it a healthy alternative to other cooking methods that require oil or butter.
Reduced Risk of Carcinogens: When food is cooked over high heat or exposed to flame or smoke, it can create carcinogenic compounds. Steaming, on the other hand, does not produce these compounds and can reduce the risk of cancer.
Improved Digestion: The gentle cooking process of steaming can also make food easier to digest, which can be beneficial for those with digestive issues.
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Eco-friendly: Bamboo is a renewable and sustainable resource, making it an eco-friendly option for cooking. Bamboo steamers also don't require any electricity or gas, making them an energy-efficient option.
While there are many health benefits to using bamboo steamers, it's important to note that the nutritional content of food will ultimately depend on the ingredients used and the cooking method employed.
Are bamboo steamers safe to use for cooking?
Bamboo steamers are generally considered safe to use for cooking, as long as they are properly cared for and maintained. Bamboo is a natural and non-toxic material that does not contain any harmful chemicals or toxins. However, it is important to use a high-quality bamboo steamer that is free from any cracks or defects that could potentially harbor bacteria or cause the steamer to break during use.
Additionally, it is important to use a bamboo steamer in conjunction with a pot or wok that is appropriate for steaming. The steamer should fit snugly inside the pot or wok, with the bottom of the steamer sitting above the water line to prevent the food from getting wet. It is also important to make sure that the water does not completely boil away during cooking, as this can cause the steamer to overheat and potentially crack.
Pro Tips for Using Your Bamboo Steamer Even Better
- Cooking professionals advise that when you place your steamer in hot water, avoid letting the bottom part touch the sides of the skillet so that it doesn’t burn.
- You can substitute Napa cabbage or iceberg lettuce to line your steamer.
- For more unique flavors, you can put tea leaves in the boiling water to add a new twist to your steamed dishes. Other flavored water alternatives are sake, vegetable broth, wine, or beer!
- Do not clean your bamboo steamer in the dishwasher – Its best cleaned with hot water and mild soap. Let it dry completely before storing.