Discover the Art of Steaming: 20 Delicious Bamboo Steamer Recipes for Any Occasion
The bamboo steamer is a staple in many Asian cuisines, and for good reason. This humble kitchen tool allows for tender, flavorful cooking without sacrificing texture or nutrients. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting to explore the world of Asian cuisine, the bamboo steamer is an essential tool to have in your arsenal.
In this article, we’ll show you 20 delicious recipes that utilize the bamboo steamer to its full potential. From classic Chinese dishes like steamed dumplings and buns, to innovative fusion creations, these recipes are sure to delight even the most discerning palates. So let’s get started on our culinary journey through the world of bamboo steamers!
Steamed Dumplings with Pork and Shrimp
Savor the flavors of Asia with this delectable dish featuring tender pork, succulent shrimp, and soft dumpling wrappers.
Ingredients:
– 1 package round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 pieces)
– 1/2 cup ground pork
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 1/4 cup cooked and peeled shrimp
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine ground pork, scallions, shrimp, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the pork-shrimp mixture in the center.
3. 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.
4. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
5. Steam the dumplings over boiling water for 8-10 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Fluffy Chinese Steamed Buns
Steam up some deliciousness with this simple recipe for fluffy Chinese steamed buns!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon instant yeast
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Filling of your choice (e.g., ground pork, shredded chicken, or sweet red bean paste)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and yeast.
2. Gradually add in warm water to form a sticky dough.
3. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rest in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
5. Divide the dough into 6-8 equal portions.
6. Roll each portion into a ball and then flatten slightly into a disk shape.
7. Place your desired filling in the center of each disk, and fold the dough over to form a bun.
8. Steam the buns for 12-15 minutes or until fluffy and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Steamed Fish with Ginger and Scallions
This simple yet flavorful recipe showcases the delicate flavor of fish while highlighting the boldness of ginger and scallions. A perfect dish for a quick weeknight meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish fillets (any white fish works well, e.g., cod, tilapia, or mahi-mahi)
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and sliced into thin coins
– 1 bunch scallions, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons water
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your steamer basket over boiling water.
2. Season the fish fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Place a piece of ginger and a few scallion pieces on top of each fish fillet.
4. Steam the fish for 8-10 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Vegetable Stuffed Tofu in Bamboo Steamer
Elevate your meal game with this flavorful and healthy recipe! By filling tofu with a colorful medley of vegetables, you’ll get to enjoy the best of both worlds: tender protein and vibrant veggies.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into cubes
– 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, etc.)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt to taste
– Bamboo steamer with a tray or basket
Instructions:
1. Preheat the bamboo steamer by filling the bottom tray with water and bringing it to a boil.
2. In a bowl, mix together the mixed vegetables, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
3. Stuff each tofu cube with about 1 tablespoon of the vegetable mixture.
4. Place the stuffed tofu cubes in the bamboo steamer, leaving some space between each piece.
5. Steam for 12-15 minutes or until the tofu is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Steamed Chicken with Mushrooms and Bok Choy
Savor the flavors of Asia with this simple and nutritious recipe that combines juicy chicken, earthy mushrooms, and crisp bok choy. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 bunch bok choy, cleaned and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large steamer basket, combine chicken, mushrooms, and bok choy.
2. Add garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil to the basket.
3. Steam over boiling water for 12-15 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Sticky Rice with Chinese Sausage
This classic Chinese dish gets a savory boost from the addition of flavorful Chinese sausage. The sticky rice and crispy sausage make for a satisfying combination that’s perfect as a main course or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked glutinous rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 Chinese sausages (lap cheong), sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine mesh strainer until the water runs clear. Drain and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
3. While the rice cooks, heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onion and cook until caramelized, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the garlic and Chinese sausage to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the sausage is crispy.
5. Serve the cooked sticky rice with the savory sausage and onion mixture on top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Steamed Shrimp with Garlic and Glass Noodles
A flavorful and light seafood dish that pairs perfectly with steamed garlic and crunchy glass noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 cup glass noodles
– 2 cups water
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the glass noodles according to package instructions and set aside.
2. In a large pot or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
5. Remove the shrimp from the pot and set aside.
6. In the same pot, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil and the glass noodles.
7. Cook the noodles in boiling water for 2-3 minutes or according to package instructions.
8. Drain the noodles and combine with the cooked shrimp.
9. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pumpkin and Red Bean Steamed Buns
These soft and fluffy steamed buns are filled with the warmth of pumpkin and the comfort of red beans, making them a perfect treat for any time of year. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can enjoy this delightful dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup instant yeast
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup cooked red beans
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and yeast.
2. Gradually add warm water to form a dough.
3. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth.
4. Divide the dough into small balls and flatten each ball slightly.
5. Place a spoonful of pumpkin puree and red beans in the center of each piece, then fold and seal the edges.
6. Steam the buns over boiling water for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Brush with egg wash before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Steamed Egg Custard with Minced Pork
Elevate your breakfast game with this creamy and savory steamed egg custard infused with the rich flavor of minced pork.
Ingredients:
– 4 large eggs
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons finely chopped scallions (green onions)
– 2 tablespoons minced pork
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Preheat a steamer basket over boiling water.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, water, vegetable oil, and salt until smooth.
3. Add chopped scallions, minced pork, and garlic to the egg mixture; stir well to combine.
4. Pour the mixture into 4 small cups or ramekins.
5. Steam the custard for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers still slightly jiggly.
6. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Steamed Pork Ribs with Black Bean Sauce
This classic Chinese dish combines tender pork ribs with a rich, savory black bean sauce, perfect for a comforting and flavorful meal. With just a few simple steps, you’ll be enjoying fall-off-the-bone goodness in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork ribs
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 cup black bean paste (doubanjiang)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 green onion, thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat steamer to high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Add pork ribs and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Steam pork ribs for 12-15 minutes or until tender.
4. Meanwhile, combine black bean paste, garlic, and green onion in a small bowl.
5. Serve steamed pork ribs with black bean sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Steamed Scallops with Vermicelli and Garlic
A light and flavorful seafood dish, this recipe combines succulent scallops with the nutty taste of vermicelli and the pungency of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 1 cup vermicelli pasta
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the vermicelli according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
2. In a separate pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Rinse the scallops under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Place the scallops in a steaming basket over boiling water.
4. Steam the scallops for 5-7 minutes or until cooked through, adjusting cooking time based on desired doneness.
5. Combine the cooked vermicelli, reserved pasta cooking water, and garlic mixture in a serving bowl. Arrange the steamed scallops on top.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Steamed Glutinous Rice with Chicken and Mushrooms
A flavorful and comforting dish that combines the aroma of steamed glutinous rice with the savory taste of chicken and earthy mushrooms. Perfect for a cozy meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup glutinous rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: scallions, chopped for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the glutinous rice and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and rinse the chicken, then season with salt and pepper.
3. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5-7 minutes.
5. In a separate pot, combine soaked glutinous rice and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and fluffy.
6. To serve, place cooked chicken and mushroom mixture on top of steamed glutinous rice.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Steamed Cod with Soy Sauce and Cilantro
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and easy-to-make cod dish, infused with the savory goodness of soy sauce and freshness of cilantro.
Ingredients:
– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tbsp water
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cod fillets under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a large steamer basket, place the cod fillets.
3. In a separate pot, bring 2 inches of water to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover and steam for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, mix soy sauce and water in a small bowl.
5. Remove the cod from the steamer basket and brush with the soy sauce mixture.
6. Sprinkle chopped cilantro over the cod fillets.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Steamed Lotus Leaf Wrapped Rice
A delicate and flavorful Chinese dish, Steamed Lotus Leaf Wrapped Rice is a simple yet impressive meal that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe wraps fragrant rice inside lotus leaves, steaming it to perfection with aromatic flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2-3 fresh lotus leaves (or substitute with banana leaves)
– Optional: scallions, soy sauce, and sesame oil for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for at least 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Cut a piece of lotus leaf into a square shape, large enough to wrap around the rice.
3. Place a tablespoon of vegetable oil on the center of the lotus leaf, followed by a scoop of cooked rice.
4. Fold the lotus leaf into a neat package, making sure to enclose the rice completely.
5. Repeat with remaining ingredients and lotus leaves.
6. Steam the wrapped rice over boiling water for 15-20 minutes or until the leaves are tender and the rice is cooked.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Steamed Pork Belly with Preserved Vegetables
A traditional Chinese dish that showcases the tender and unctuous pork belly paired with a medley of preserved vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 piece of pork belly (about 500g)
– 2 cups of preserved cabbage (such as kimchi or sauerkraut)
– 1 cup of preserved carrots (such as pickled carrots)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons of Shaoxing wine
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the pork belly under cold running water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a steamer basket, place the pork belly and add 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and 1 tablespoon of Shaoxing wine.
3. Steam the pork belly over high heat for 30 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, prepare the preserved vegetables by rinsing them under cold running water and patting dry with paper towels.
5. To serve, slice the pork belly into thin strips and place it on a plate with the preserved vegetables.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Steamed Tofu with Fermented Black Beans
This simple yet flavorful dish combines the creamy texture of steamed tofu with the savory, umami taste of fermented black beans. Perfect as a side dish or added to noodles or rice for a quick meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu
– 2 tablespoons fermented black beans (doubanjiang)
– 2 tablespoons water
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together fermented black beans and water until smooth.
3. Place the tofu cubes in a steamer basket lined with parchment paper.
4. Steam the tofu over boiling water for 8-10 minutes, or until slightly firm to the touch.
5. Remove the tofu from the steamer and brush with the fermented black bean mixture.
6. Season with soy sauce (if using) and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Steamed Clams with Lemongrass and Chili
Savor the sweetness of fresh clams infused with the bright, citrusy flavor of lemongrass and a hint of spicy heat from chili flakes. This simple yet flavorful recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds clams, scrubbed clean
– 4 stalks lemongrass, bruised with the back of a knife
– 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the clams under cold water and drain well.
2. In a large pot with a steamer basket, combine the lemongrass stalks and chili flakes.
3. Add the clams to the steamer basket, leaving space between each clam.
4. Pour in the olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
5. Steam over boiling water for 8-10 minutes or until the clams are tender and open.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Steamed Eggplant with Garlic and Chili Sauce
This simple and flavorful recipe brings out the best in eggplant, with a delicate balance of savory garlic and spicy chili sauce. Perfect as a side dish or added to your favorite stir-fry.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized eggplants, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1/4 cup of chili sauce (such as sriracha)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a steamer basket with 2 cups of water.
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and olive oil.
3. Brush the eggplant slices with the garlic-infused oil on both sides.
4. Place the eggplant slices in the steamer basket, leaving some space between each slice.
5. Steam the eggplant for 10-12 minutes, or until tender.
6. While the eggplant is still warm, brush with chili sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Steamed Chicken Feet with Black Bean Sauce
A flavorful and exotic twist on traditional chicken dishes, this recipe combines the tender goodness of steamed chicken feet with a rich and savory black bean sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 chicken feet (fowl or hen)
– 1/2 cup black beans, cooked
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the chicken feet under cold water, then pat dry with paper towels.
2. Place the chicken feet in a steamer basket over boiling water. Cover with a lid and steam for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
3. In a small saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add cooked black beans, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper to the saucepan. Stir until well combined.
5. Serve the steamed chicken feet with the black bean sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Steamed Spare Ribs with Plum Sauce
This recipe combines the tender texture of steamed spare ribs with the sweet and tangy flavors of plum sauce, creating a harmonious balance of East meets West.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds pork spare ribs
– 1 cup plums, pitted and chopped
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat steamer to high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and cornstarch. Add chopped plums, garlic, and ginger; stir until combined.
3. Season spare ribs with salt and pepper. Place ribs in the steamer basket and steam for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. Serve hot with plum sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your meal game with these 20 mouth-watering bamboo steamer recipes! From classic Chinese dishes like Steamed Dumplings with Pork and Shrimp, Fluffy Chinese Steamed Buns, and Steamed Fish with Ginger and Scallions, to innovative vegetarian options like Vegetable Stuffed Tofu in Bamboo Steamer and Pumpkin and Red Bean Steamed Buns. These easy-to-make recipes are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking for a quick and delicious meal. With ingredients ranging from pork and chicken to tofu and seafood, there’s something for everyone in this diverse collection of bamboo steamer recipes. Try them out and discover the art of effortless cooking!
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
