20 Delicious Steamer Recipes Healthy

Dive into the world of healthy, hassle-free cooking with our roundup of 20 Delicious Steamer Recipes! Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something light yet satisfying, these dishes are a breeze to whip up. From vibrant veggies to succulent seafood, discover how a steamer can transform simple ingredients into mouthwatering meals. Ready to steam your way to deliciousness? Let’s get cooking!

Steamed Salmon with Lemon and Dill

Steamed Salmon with Lemon and Dill

Steamed Salmon with Lemon and Dill is a light, flavorful dish that brings the freshness of the sea right to your dinner table, perfect for a healthy weeknight meal.

Ingredients

  • 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
  • 1 lemon, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup water

Instructions

  1. Season the salmon fillets evenly with 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.
  2. Place the salmon in a steamer basket. Arrange the lemon slices on top of the salmon and sprinkle with 2 tablespoons fresh dill.
  3. Pour 1/2 cup water into a pot and bring to a boil. Place the steamer basket over the pot, cover, and steam for 10-12 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
  4. Drizzle the steamed salmon with 2 tablespoons olive oil before serving.

The gentle steam cooking locks in the salmon’s moisture, while the lemon and dill add a bright, herby zing that elevates the dish beyond the ordinary.

Tip: For an extra burst of flavor, let the salmon marinate with the lemon and dill for 15 minutes before steaming.

Chinese Steamed Buns (Baozi)

Chinese Steamed Buns (Baozi)

There’s something truly magical about biting into a fluffy, steamed bun filled with savory goodness. These Chinese Steamed Buns (Baozi) are a delightful project for any home cook looking to explore the art of dim sum at home.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup warm water
  • 1 tsp active dry yeast
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 lb ground pork
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped cabbage
  • 1 green onion, finely chopped

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, dissolve the sugar in warm water, then sprinkle the yeast on top. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
  2. Add the flour and salt to the yeast mixture, stirring to combine. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
  3. While the dough rises, mix the ground pork, soy sauce, sesame oil, cabbage, and green onion in a bowl for the filling.
  4. Punch down the dough and divide into 12 pieces. Roll each piece into a circle, place a spoonful of filling in the center, and pleat the edges to seal.
  5. Place each bun on a parchment-lined steamer basket, leaving space to expand. Cover and let rise for 15 minutes.
  6. Steam over boiling water for 15 minutes. Turn off the heat and let sit for 5 minutes before opening the lid to prevent the buns from collapsing.

The secret to these buns’ irresistible appeal lies in their pillowy texture and the juicy, flavorful filling that bursts with every bite. Perfect for a weekend brunch or as a make-ahead snack.

Tip: For a shiny finish, brush the steamed buns with a little oil right after cooking.

Steamed Vegetable Dumplings

Steamed Vegetable Dumplings

These Steamed Vegetable Dumplings are a delightful way to pack in your greens, wrapped in a tender, chewy dough that’s surprisingly simple to make at home.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup warm water
  • 1 cup finely chopped cabbage
  • 1/2 cup grated carrots
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, mix 2 cups all-purpose flour with 3/4 cup warm water until a dough forms. Knead for 5 minutes until smooth, then cover and let rest for 30 minutes.
  2. While the dough rests, combine 1 cup finely chopped cabbage, 1/2 cup grated carrots, 1/4 cup chopped green onions, 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp sesame oil, 1 tsp sugar, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper in a bowl for the filling.
  3. Divide the dough into 20 pieces. Roll each into a thin circle, place a tablespoon of filling in the center, fold, and pleat the edges to seal.
  4. Steam the dumplings in a bamboo steamer lined with parchment paper over boiling water for 10 minutes, or until the wrappers are translucent.

The magic of these dumplings lies in their delicate balance of textures—crisp vegetables encased in a silky, stretchy wrapper that’s a joy to bite into.

Tip: For an extra glossy finish, brush the dumplings with a little sesame oil right after steaming.

Steamed Chicken with Mushrooms

Steamed Chicken with Mushrooms

Steamed Chicken with Mushrooms is a comforting dish that brings tender chicken and earthy mushrooms together in a light, flavorful broth. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for a cozy night in.

Ingredients

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup sliced mushrooms
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 2 green onions, sliced

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, mix the chicken breasts with 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 teaspoon sesame oil, 1/2 teaspoon sugar, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Let marinate for 15 minutes.
  2. Place the marinated chicken in a steaming dish and top with 1 cup sliced mushrooms and 2 cloves minced garlic.
  3. Pour 1/2 cup chicken broth around the chicken to keep it moist during steaming.
  4. Steam over boiling water for 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
  5. Garnish with 2 sliced green onions before serving.

The magic of this dish lies in the steaming process, which locks in the chicken’s juiciness while infusing it with the umami-rich flavors of mushrooms and garlic.

Tip: For an extra flavor boost, drizzle a little more sesame oil over the dish just before serving.

Steamed Fish with Ginger and Scallions

Steamed Fish with Ginger and Scallions

Steamed Fish with Ginger and Scallions is a light, flavorful dish that brings the delicate taste of the sea right to your dinner table, with a zesty kick from fresh ginger and scallions.

Ingredients

  • 1 whole white fish (about 1.5 lbs), cleaned and scaled
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1 inch fresh ginger, julienned
  • 2 scallions, sliced into thin strips
  • 1 tbsp rice wine
  • 1/2 tsp sugar
  • 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions

  1. Rinse the fish under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Make 3 diagonal cuts on each side of the fish to help it cook evenly.
  2. Place the fish on a heatproof plate that fits inside your steamer. Drizzle with soy sauce, sesame oil, and rice wine. Sprinkle sugar and salt evenly over the fish.
  3. Scatter julienned ginger and half of the scallions over the fish.
  4. Fill a wok or pot with water up to the steamer’s bottom level and bring to a boil. Place the plate with the fish in the steamer, cover, and steam over high heat for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
  5. Remove the fish from the steamer and garnish with the remaining scallions. Serve immediately.

The magic of this dish lies in the steaming process, which locks in the fish’s natural juices while infusing it with the aromatic flavors of ginger and scallions.

Tip: For an extra burst of flavor, heat a tablespoon of oil until smoking and pour it over the scallions on the fish just before serving.

Steamed Pork Buns (Char Siu Bao)

Steamed Pork Buns (Char Siu Bao)

There’s something truly magical about biting into a fluffy, steamed bun filled with sweet and savory char siu pork. This recipe brings the authentic taste of dim sum right to your kitchen.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup warm water (110°F)
  • 2 tbsp sugar
  • 1 tbsp active dry yeast
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1 cup char siu pork, diced
  • 2 tbsp hoisin sauce
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tsp sesame oil

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
  2. Add flour, salt, and vegetable oil to the yeast mixture. Knead into a smooth dough. Cover and let rise for 1 hour.
  3. While the dough rises, mix char siu pork with hoisin sauce, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
  4. Divide dough into 12 pieces. Flatten each into a circle, add a spoonful of pork mixture, and seal into a bun.
  5. Place buns on parchment paper in a steamer. Steam over boiling water for 15 minutes.

The secret to these buns is the contrast between the pillowy dough and the rich, flavorful filling. Perfect for sharing, they disappear as quickly as you make them.

Tip: For extra shine, brush the steamed buns with a little sesame oil before serving.

Steamed Broccoli with Garlic Sauce

Steamed Broccoli with Garlic Sauce

Steamed broccoli gets a flavorful upgrade with this garlic sauce that’s both simple and irresistible. Perfect for a quick side that steals the show.

Ingredients

  • 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Fill a pot with 1 inch of water and bring to a boil. Place broccoli florets in a steamer basket over the boiling water, cover, and steam for 5 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp.
  2. While broccoli steams, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a small pan over medium heat. Add 3 cloves minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Stir in 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 teaspoon honey, 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Cook for another minute, then remove from heat.
  4. Transfer steamed broccoli to a serving dish and drizzle with the garlic sauce, tossing gently to coat.

The magic of this dish lies in the balance of sweet, salty, and spicy flavors that cling to every floret, making it far from your average steamed veggie.

Tip: For an extra crunch, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the top before serving.

Steamed Shrimp Dumplings (Har Gow)

Steamed Shrimp Dumplings (Har Gow)

These Steamed Shrimp Dumplings (Har Gow) are a dim sum favorite, featuring a translucent, chewy wrapper enveloping a juicy, flavorful shrimp filling. Perfect for impressing at your next gathering!

Ingredients

  • 1 cup wheat starch
  • 1/2 cup tapioca starch
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cup boiling water
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1/2 pound shrimp, peeled, deveined, and finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon bamboo shoots, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon white pepper

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, mix 1 cup wheat starch, 1/2 cup tapioca starch, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Gradually add 3/4 cup boiling water and 1 tablespoon vegetable oil, stirring until a dough forms. Knead until smooth, then cover with a damp cloth and let rest for 10 minutes.
  2. For the filling, combine the shrimp, 1 tablespoon bamboo shoots, 1 teaspoon sesame oil, 1/2 teaspoon sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon white pepper in a bowl. Mix well and set aside.
  3. Divide the dough into 20 equal pieces. Roll each into a thin circle, about 3 inches in diameter. Place a teaspoon of filling in the center of each wrapper, then fold and pleat the edges to seal.
  4. Steam the dumplings in a bamboo steamer lined with parchment paper over boiling water for 6-8 minutes, until the wrappers are translucent and the filling is cooked through.

The magic of Har Gow lies in its delicate, slightly chewy wrapper that perfectly contrasts the succulent shrimp filling. A true test of dim sum mastery at home!

Tip: Keep the dough covered while working to prevent it from drying out.

Steamed Eggplant with Spicy Sauce

Steamed Eggplant with Spicy Sauce

Steamed eggplant with spicy sauce is a vibrant, flavorful dish that brings a little heat to your table with minimal effort.

Ingredients

  • 2 medium eggplants, cut into 1-inch thick strips
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp ginger, grated
  • 1 tbsp chili garlic sauce
  • 1 green onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 tsp sesame seeds

Instructions

  1. Place the eggplant strips in a steamer basket over boiling water. Cover and steam for 10 minutes, or until tender.
  2. While the eggplant steams, whisk together the soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and chili garlic sauce in a small bowl.
  3. Transfer the steamed eggplant to a serving plate. Drizzle the spicy sauce over the top, then sprinkle with sliced green onion and sesame seeds.

The magic of this dish lies in the contrast between the soft, creamy eggplant and the bold, spicy sauce—a combination that’s sure to wake up your taste buds.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Steamed Tofu with Minced Pork

Steamed Tofu with Minced Pork

Steamed Tofu with Minced Pork is a comforting dish that combines the silky texture of tofu with the savory richness of pork, all brought together with a flavorful sauce. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

  • 1 block (14 oz) soft tofu
  • 1/2 lb ground pork
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp oyster sauce
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp white pepper
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 green onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup water

Instructions

  1. Cut the tofu into 1-inch cubes and arrange them on a heatproof plate that fits inside your steamer.
  2. In a bowl, mix the ground pork with 1 tbsp soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, salt, and white pepper until well combined.
  3. Heat the vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
  4. Add the seasoned pork to the pan and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until no longer pink, about 5 minutes.
  5. Spread the cooked pork evenly over the tofu on the plate.
  6. Pour the water into the steamer and bring to a boil. Place the plate with tofu and pork in the steamer, cover, and steam for 10 minutes.
  7. After steaming, drizzle the remaining 1 tbsp soy sauce over the dish and sprinkle with chopped green onion.

The magic of this dish lies in the contrast between the delicate tofu and the robust pork topping, with the steam melding their flavors beautifully.

Tip: For an extra touch of flavor, add a few slices of ginger to the pork while cooking.

Steamed Carrots with Honey Glaze

Steamed Carrots with Honey Glaze

Steamed carrots with a honey glaze are a simple yet elegant side dish that brings a touch of sweetness to any meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this recipe is as easy as it is delicious.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound carrots, peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Place the carrots in a steamer basket over boiling water. Cover and steam for 8-10 minutes, until tender but still crisp.
  2. While the carrots steam, melt the 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the 2 tablespoons of honey, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper until well combined.
  3. Transfer the steamed carrots to a serving bowl. Pour the honey glaze over the carrots and toss gently to coat.
  4. Sprinkle with 1 tablespoon of fresh chopped parsley before serving.

The honey glaze caramelizes slightly on the warm carrots, creating a beautiful sheen and a depth of flavor that’s irresistible. This dish is a fantastic way to elevate everyday vegetables into something special.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the honey glaze.

Steamed Crab Legs with Butter

Steamed Crab Legs with Butter

There’s nothing quite like the sweet, succulent taste of steamed crab legs dipped in melted butter. This simple yet luxurious dish is perfect for a special dinner or a cozy night in.

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds of crab legs
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Fill a large pot with about 2 inches of water and bring to a boil over high heat.
  2. Place a steamer basket inside the pot, then add the crab legs. Cover and steam for 5 to 7 minutes, until the crab legs are heated through.
  3. While the crab legs are steaming, melt the 1/2 cup unsalted butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir in the 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
  4. Once the crab legs are done, remove them from the pot and serve immediately with the melted butter sauce on the side for dipping.

The magic of this recipe lies in the contrast between the tender crab meat and the rich, flavorful butter sauce—it’s a match made in seafood heaven.

Tip: For an extra touch of freshness, garnish the crab legs with chopped parsley before serving.

Steamed Artichokes with Lemon Butter

Steamed Artichokes with Lemon Butter

Steamed artichokes with lemon butter is a simple yet elegant dish that brings a touch of sophistication to your dinner table with minimal effort.

Ingredients

  • 4 large artichokes
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

  1. Trim the stems of the artichokes to about 1 inch and remove any small leaves from the bottom. Cut off the top 1 inch of each artichoke and snip the tips of the remaining leaves with scissors.
  2. Place a steamer basket in a large pot filled with 2 inches of water. Bring the water to a boil over high heat.
  3. Arrange the artichokes in the steamer basket, cover, and steam for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the base of an artichoke can be easily pierced with a knife.
  4. While the artichokes are steaming, melt the unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes, until the garlic is fragrant.
  5. Serve the steamed artichokes warm with the lemon butter sauce on the side for dipping.

The combination of tender artichoke leaves and zesty lemon butter creates a delightful contrast of textures and flavors that’s sure to impress.

Tip: For an extra touch, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the artichokes before serving.

Steamed Zucchini with Parmesan

Steamed Zucchini with Parmesan

Steamed zucchini with Parmesan is a light, flavorful side dish that brings out the natural sweetness of zucchini with a savory cheesy finish.

Ingredients

  • 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

  1. Place the zucchini rounds in a steamer basket over boiling water. Cover and steam for 5 minutes, or until just tender.
  2. Transfer the steamed zucchini to a bowl. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons olive oil and sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder. Toss gently to coat.
  3. Arrange the zucchini on a serving plate and sprinkle evenly with 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese.
  4. Serve immediately, allowing the residual heat to melt the Parmesan slightly.

The magic of this dish lies in the contrast between the tender zucchini and the crispy, melted Parmesan, creating a simple yet sophisticated flavor profile.

Tip: For an extra crunch, broil the zucchini with Parmesan for 2-3 minutes after steaming.

Steamed Mussels in White Wine Sauce

Steamed Mussels in White Wine Sauce

There’s something undeniably luxurious about a bowl of steamed mussels, especially when they’re bathed in a fragrant white wine sauce. This recipe is surprisingly simple, turning any weeknight into a special occasion.

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds fresh mussels, scrubbed and debearded
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped shallots
  • 1 cup dry white wine
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the garlic and shallots, sautéing until soft and fragrant, about 2 minutes.
  2. Pour in the white wine, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 2 minutes to slightly reduce.
  3. Add the mussels to the pot, cover, and steam for 5 to 7 minutes, or until the mussels open. Discard any that remain closed.
  4. Stir in the heavy cream, parsley, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes, just until everything is heated through.

The magic of this dish lies in the broth—a creamy, wine-infused elixir that’s perfect for sopping up with crusty bread. It’s a reminder that the best meals are often the simplest.

Tip: Serve immediately with plenty of bread to enjoy every last drop of that delicious sauce.

Steamed Corn on the Cob

Steamed Corn on the Cob

There’s nothing quite like the sweet, buttery taste of steamed corn on the cob, a summer staple that’s as easy to make as it is delicious.

Ingredients

  • 4 ears of fresh corn, husks and silks removed
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. Fill a large pot with about 2 inches of water and bring to a boil over high heat.
  2. Place the corn in a steamer basket and lower it into the pot, ensuring the water doesn’t touch the corn. Cover with a tight-fitting lid.
  3. Steam the corn for 5 to 7 minutes, until the kernels are bright yellow and tender when pierced with a fork.
  4. Carefully remove the corn from the pot and transfer to a serving plate. Brush each ear with the melted butter and sprinkle evenly with the salt and black pepper.

Steaming preserves the corn’s natural sweetness and crunch, making it a standout side dish that pairs beautifully with grilled meats or a simple salad.

Tip: For an extra flavor boost, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a squeeze of lime juice to the butter before brushing it on the corn.

Steamed Asparagus with Hollandaise Sauce

Steamed Asparagus with Hollandaise Sauce

Steamed Asparagus with Hollandaise Sauce is a classic spring dish that brings a touch of elegance to your table with minimal effort.

Ingredients

  • 1 bunch fresh asparagus, trimmed
  • 3 large egg yolks
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Instructions

  1. Fill a large pot with 2 inches of water and bring to a boil. Place the asparagus in a steamer basket over the boiling water, cover, and steam for 3 to 5 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp.
  2. While the asparagus steams, whisk the egg yolks and lemon juice in a heatproof bowl until doubled in volume. Place the bowl over a pot of simmering water (double boiler method), ensuring the bowl doesn’t touch the water.
  3. Slowly drizzle in the melted butter while continuously whisking until the sauce thickens. Stir in the salt and cayenne pepper.
  4. Arrange the steamed asparagus on a serving plate and drizzle with the hollandaise sauce.

The magic of this dish lies in the contrast between the crisp, fresh asparagus and the rich, velvety hollandaise sauce. It’s a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create something truly special.

Tip: For an extra flavor boost, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika to the hollandaise sauce before serving.

Steamed Rice with Coconut Milk

Steamed Rice with Coconut Milk

There’s something incredibly comforting about steaming rice with coconut milk—it turns a simple side into a fragrant, creamy delight that pairs beautifully with everything from grilled fish to spicy curries.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup jasmine rice
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 cup coconut milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon sugar

Instructions

  1. Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then drain well.
  2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, water, coconut milk, salt, and sugar. Stir gently to mix.
  3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18 minutes.
  4. After 18 minutes, turn off the heat and let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes to steam further.
  5. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving to reveal its light, fluffy texture and rich coconut aroma.

The magic of this dish lies in its simplicity—the coconut milk infuses the rice with a subtle sweetness and richness that elevates it beyond the ordinary.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, toast the rice lightly in a dry pan before adding the liquids. It adds a nutty depth that’s irresistible.

Steamed Sweet Potatoes with Cinnamon

Steamed Sweet Potatoes with Cinnamon

Steamed sweet potatoes with cinnamon are a simple yet delightful side dish that brings out the natural sweetness of the potatoes with a warm spice.

Ingredients

  • 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Fill a pot with 1 inch of water and bring to a boil over high heat.
  2. Place the sweet potatoes in a steamer basket and lower it into the pot. Cover and steam for 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
  3. Transfer the steamed sweet potatoes to a bowl. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil, then sprinkle with 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Gently toss to coat evenly.

The gentle steaming preserves the sweet potatoes’ moisture, making them incredibly tender, while the cinnamon adds a cozy warmth that’s perfect for any meal.

Tip: For an extra touch of sweetness, a drizzle of maple syrup can be added before serving.

Steamed Clams in Garlic Butter

Steamed Clams in Garlic Butter

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of garlic butter wafting through your kitchen, especially when it’s mingling with the fresh, briny scent of steamed clams. This dish is a simple yet luxurious treat that’s perfect for a cozy night in.

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds fresh clams, scrubbed
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 lemon, cut into wedges

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  2. Pour in the white wine and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 2 minutes to reduce slightly.
  3. Add the clams to the pot, cover with a lid, and steam for 5-7 minutes until the clams open up. Discard any clams that do not open.
  4. Season with salt and black pepper, then sprinkle the chopped parsley over the top.
  5. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the clams.

The magic of this dish lies in the way the garlic butter infuses the clams with rich flavor, while the white wine adds a subtle acidity that balances everything beautifully.

Tip: For an extra touch of luxury, serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce.

Conclusion

We hope this roundup of 20 delicious steamer recipes inspires you to whip up something healthy and tasty in your kitchen! From vibrant veggies to succulent seafood, there’s something for everyone. Don’t forget to try these recipes, share your favorites in the comments, and pin this article on Pinterest for your next culinary adventure. Happy steaming!

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