Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen cooking up a storm? Look no further than the humble steamer! With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, these 18 delicious steamer recipes are perfect for busy cooks on-the-go. From savory seafood dishes to sweet treats, we’ve got you covered with this collection of mouth-watering ideas.
From classic Chinese-style buns to succulent salmon fillets, our steamer recipes offer a world of flavors and textures to explore. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, these easy-to-make dishes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
In this article, we’ll dive into each of these 18 mouth-watering recipes, exploring the ingredients, techniques, and tips you need to get started. So what are you waiting for? Let’s get steaming!
Steamed Lemon Herb Salmon
This refreshing recipe combines the delicate flavor of salmon with a bright and citrusy lemon herb sauce. Perfect for a light and healthy meal or as a impressive dinner party main course.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a steamer basket with 2 cups of water.
2. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
3. In a small bowl, mix together lemon juice, olive oil, parsley, dill, and garlic.
4. Place the salmon fillets in the steamer basket and steam for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Brush the lemon herb sauce over the salmon during the last minute of cooking.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 9-11 minutes
Chinese Steamed Buns
A classic Chinese dessert, these soft and fluffy steamed buns are a perfect treat to enjoy with family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Sesame seeds or chopped scallions for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, warm water, yeast, sugar, and salt. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
2. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
4. Preheat steamer to high heat. Divide the dough into 6-8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and then flatten slightly into an oval shape.
5. Place the buns on a piece of parchment paper lined with a silicone mat, leaving about 1 inch between each bun.
6. Steam the buns for 12-15 minutes, or until cooked through and fluffy.
7. Brush with beaten egg for a golden glaze (optional). Serve warm with your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Steamed Miso Glazed Cod
This recipe combines the delicate flavor of cod with the savory umami taste of miso glaze, resulting in a dish that’s both healthy and flavorful. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp white miso paste
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp rice vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup water
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat steamer basket with 1-2 inches of water.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together miso paste, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and garlic until smooth.
3. Place cod fillets in the steamer basket, leaving some space between each piece.
4. Brush the miso glaze evenly over the cod.
5. Steam for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Vegetable Steamed Dumplings
A delicious and healthy take on traditional dumplings, this recipe uses a variety of vegetables to add flavor and nutrients. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 package round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1/2 cup finely chopped cabbage
– 1/2 cup finely chopped carrots
– 1/4 cup grated zucchini
– 1/4 cup green onions, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine chopped cabbage, carrots, zucchini, green onions, and garlic.
2. Mix well until all the vegetables are evenly distributed.
3. Place a wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Place a small spoonful of the vegetable mixture in the center of the wrapper.
4. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point. Press the edges together to seal the dumpling.
5. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
6. Steam the dumplings over boiling water for 8-10 minutes, or until they are cooked through.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Steamed Coconut Rice
A flavorful and aromatic side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. This simple recipe combines the warmth of coconut milk with the comforting taste of steamed rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– 1 tablespoon unsweetened coconut milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon grated ginger for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and combine it with the water in a medium saucepan.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and steam for 18-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the shredded coconut, coconut milk, and salt (and grated ginger if using).
4. Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and stir in the coconut mixture until well combined.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Steamed Ginger Soy Chicken
This recipe combines the aromatic properties of ginger with the savory flavor of soy sauce to create a delicious and healthy chicken dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this steamed chicken is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and sliced
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp water
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large steamer basket, combine chicken breasts and sliced ginger.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, water, sesame oil, and honey.
3. Pour the soy sauce mixture over the chicken and ginger.
4. Steam for 12-15 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with green onions if desired.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Steamed Fish with Black Bean Sauce
This recipe combines the delicate flavor of fish with the rich, earthy taste of black beans, all wrapped up in a simple and quick cooking process.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish fillets (any white fish works well)
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your steamer basket with boiling water.
2. Season the fish fillets with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of olive oil.
3. Place the fish in the steamer basket and steam for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
4. In a blender or food processor, combine black beans, garlic, soy sauce, honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Blend until smooth.
5. Serve the steamed fish with the black bean sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Steamed Chocolate Lava Cake
Rich, gooey chocolate cake filled with warm, velvety goodness – what’s not to love? This steamed version of the classic lava cake is surprisingly easy to make and perfect for a special treat.
Ingredients:
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup (100g) all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, at room temperature
– 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
– 2 tablespoons high-quality dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat a steamer basket with boiling water.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, flour, sugar, and milk until smooth.
3. Add melted butter, chocolate chips, and vanilla extract; whisk until combined.
4. Pour the batter into 2 (6-ounce) ramekins or small cups.
5. Steam for 12-15 minutes, or until edges are set but centers still slightly jiggly.
6. Remove from heat and let cool in steamer basket for 1 minute before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Steamed Pork Belly Buns
Savor the rich flavors of steamed pork belly wrapped in soft, fluffy buns. This traditional Chinese dish is a delightful twist on classic bao.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork belly, skin removed
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon five-spice powder
– 2 cups water
– 4-6 buns (steamed or store-bought)
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat steamer to high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, garlic, and five-spice powder.
3. Place pork belly in the marinade and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Remove pork from marinade and place in steamer basket lined with parchment paper.
5. Steam pork for 1 hour and 15 minutes to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
6. Meanwhile, heat water to a boil in the bottom pot of the steamer.
7. Assemble buns by placing cooked pork belly on each bun and garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Steamed Garlic Butter Shrimp
Savor the sweet flavor of succulent shrimp infused with aromatic garlic and rich butter.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a large skillet or steamer basket, combine garlic and butter.
3. Add the shrimp to the skillet or steamer, leaving some space between each shrimp.
4. Steam the shrimp over boiling water for 4-5 minutes or until they turn pink.
5. Remove the shrimp from heat and sprinkle with salt.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Steamed Pumpkin with Honey Glaze
This sweet and savory recipe combines the natural sweetness of pumpkin with a drizzle of honey glaze, making it a perfect side dish for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 small to medium-sized pumpkin (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your steamer basket with 2-3 inches of water.
2. Cut the top off the pumpkin, then scoop out the seeds and pulp.
3. Place the pumpkin in the steamer basket, cover with a lid, and steam for 30 minutes or until tender when pierced with a fork.
4. Meanwhile, melt the butter and honey together in a small saucepan over medium heat.
5. Once the pumpkin is cooked, brush it with the honey glaze and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Steamed Tofu with Mushrooms
Transform tender tofu into a savory delight when paired with sautéed mushrooms and a hint of soy sauce. This simple recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat steamer basket over boiling water.
2. In a separate pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Place tofu cubes in the steamer basket.
5. Steam the tofu for 8-10 minutes or until tender.
6. Remove from heat and stir in soy sauce.
7. Serve the steamed tofu with sautéed mushrooms, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Steamed Artichokes with Lemon Aioli
Artichokes are a classic springtime ingredient, and when paired with the brightness of lemon aioli, they become an unforgettable side dish perfect for warm-weather gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 4 large artichokes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the artichokes under cold water, then trim off the stems and remove any tough outer leaves.
2. In a large pot with steamer basket, combine the olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the artichokes in the steamer basket, leaving some space between each one.
4. Steam the artichokes for 25-30 minutes, or until the leaves can be easily pulled off.
5. Meanwhile, mix together the mayonnaise, garlic, and lemon juice to make the aioli.
6. Serve the steamed artichokes with a dollop of lemon aioli on top, garnished with parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Steamed Carrot and Ginger Soup
This recipe yields a comforting and flavorful soup that’s perfect for any time of the year. With its bright orange color and subtle spicy kick, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and sliced
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large steamer basket, combine the chopped carrots and sliced ginger.
2. Place the basket over boiling water, making sure the steam rises evenly around the vegetables.
3. Steam for 15-20 minutes, or until the carrots are tender when pierced with a fork.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
5. Use an immersion blender or transfer the mixture to a blender and puree until smooth.
6. If desired, stir in heavy cream to add richness and creaminess.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Steamed Clams in White Wine Sauce
A classic seafood dish that’s quick and flavorful! This recipe yields a deliciously tender and aromatic clam dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds clams, scrubbed clean and rinsed
– 1/4 cup white wine (dry)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with 2 inches of water. Bring to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low and add clams, cover the pot.
3. Steam for 3-5 minutes or until clams open.
4. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
5. Pour in white wine, bring to a simmer. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Remove pot from heat and add cooked clams to the white wine sauce.
7. Toss to combine and season with salt, pepper, and parsley.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Steamed Banana Bread
This recipe yields a tender and flavorful banana bread that’s steamed instead of baked, resulting in a moist and dense texture. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious dessert or snack that’s perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe bananas
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
Instructions:
1. Peel the bananas and place them in a steamer basket.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder.
3. Pour the dry ingredients over the bananas.
4. Drizzle the melted butter and beat in the egg until well combined.
5. Steam for 12-15 minutes or until the bread is cooked through and a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Steamed Broccoli with Sesame Dressing
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of steamed broccoli with the nutty flavor of sesame dressing, creating a delicious and healthy side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
– 2 tablespoons water
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with 2 inches of water and bring to a boil.
2. Add broccoli florets and cover the pot with a lid. Steam for 5-7 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil, garlic, soy sauce, and honey.
4. Remove broccoli from heat and toss with sesame dressing.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Steamed Sweet Potato Pudding
Elevate your dessert game with this comforting Steamed Sweet Potato Pudding recipe, perfect for a cozy evening or special occasion. This velvety pudding is infused with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes and topped with a crunchy pecan streusel.
Ingredients:
• 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a steamer basket or metal colander over boiling water.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine sweet potatoes, heavy cream, sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix until smooth.
3. Pour the mixture into 4-6 ramekins or small cups.
4. Steam for 25-30 minutes, or until the pudding is set and slightly firm to the touch.
5. If desired, top with chopped pecans before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to cook up a storm with these easy and delicious steamer recipes! From savory dishes like Steamed Lemon Herb Salmon and Steamed Miso Glazed Cod, to sweet treats like Steamed Chocolate Lava Cake and Steamed Banana Bread, there’s something for everyone. Impress your family and friends with Steamed Pork Belly Buns and Steamed Garlic Butter Shrimp, or indulge in healthier options like Steamed Pumpkin with Honey Glaze and Steamed Broccoli with Sesame Dressing. With these quick and effortless recipes, you’ll be a busy cook’s best friend!
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.
