Are you looking for a healthy and flavorful way to cook your meals? Look no further than the humble bamboo steamer! This ancient cooking tool has been used in Chinese cuisine for centuries, and its versatility knows no bounds. From delicate dim sum treats to hearty main courses, bamboo steamers can do it all.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious and easy-to-make recipes that showcase the best of what bamboo steamers have to offer. Whether you’re a fan of seafood, meat, or vegetables, there’s something on this list for everyone. So why not give one (or two, or three…) a try and discover the amazing flavors and textures that only a bamboo steamer can provide?
Steamed Pork Buns with Hoisin Sauce
These soft and fluffy buns filled with savory pork are a staple of Chinese cuisine, and pairing them with a sweet and sticky hoisin sauce takes them to the next level.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons instant yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup pork filling (ground pork, soy sauce, sesame oil, and scallions)
– 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
– 1 tablespoon chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and salt.
2. Gradually add warm water and mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 10 minutes and let it rest for 30 minutes.
4. Divide the dough into small balls and flatten each one slightly.
5. Place a spoonful of pork filling in the center of each ball, then fold and shape into buns.
6. Steam the buns for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve with hoisin sauce drizzled on top and garnished with chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Dim Sum Shrimp Har Gow
Har Gow, a classic Cantonese dim sum dish, is a must-try when it comes to steamed shrimp dumplings. This recipe yields soft and juicy shrimp wrapped in a delicate dough wrapper.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together shrimp, scallions, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the shrimp mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. Dip your finger in water and run it along the edges of the wrapper.
4. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point.
5. Press the edges together to seal the dumpling.
6. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
7. Steam the Har Gow over boiling water for 8-10 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Chinese Sticky Rice in Lotus Leaves
This traditional Chinese dish is a staple at many celebrations and family gatherings. The combination of fragrant glutinous rice, savory fillings, and tender lotus leaves creates a delicious and visually appealing treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of glutinous rice
– 1 cup of cooked chicken or pork, diced
– 1/4 cup of chopped scallions
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons of sesame oil
– Salt to taste
– Lotus leaves (fresh or frozen)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the glutinous rice and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain the rice and cook it according to package instructions.
3. In a separate pan, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken or pork, scallions, and garlic. Cook until the mixture is well combined and heated through.
4. To assemble the sticky rice, place a portion of cooked rice onto the center of a lotus leaf, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges. Add a spoonful of the filling mixture on top of the rice.
5. Fold the lotus leaf over the filling, making sure to seal the edges tightly.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients and cook the sticky rice in a steamer basket for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the leaves are tender.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Steamed Fish with Ginger and Scallions
This simple recipe combines the freshness of fish with the warmth of ginger and scallions, creating a delightful meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish fillets (any white fish works well)
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a steamer basket with boiling water.
2. Season the fish fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Place the sliced ginger on the bottom of the steamer basket, followed by the fish fillets.
4. Add the chopped scallions on top of the fish.
5. Drizzle soy sauce and sesame oil over the ingredients.
6. Steam for 8-10 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
7. Serve hot with additional soy sauce if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Vegetable Dumplings with Soy Dipping Sauce
Discover the comforting fusion of Asian-inspired flavors in these tender vegetable dumplings served with a savory soy dipping sauce. Perfect for a quick and easy meal or snack.
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 finely chopped scallions (green onions)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Soy dipping sauce ingredients: 1/2 cup soy sauce, 1/4 cup water, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, 1 teaspoon honey
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine chopped cabbage, carrots, scallions, and garlic.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the vegetable mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. Dip your finger in water and run it along the edges 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. Cook the dumplings by steaming them for 8-10 minutes or pan-frying them with some oil until golden brown.
6. For the soy dipping sauce, combine all ingredients in a bowl and stir well.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Steamed Chicken with Mushrooms and Bamboo Shoots
This classic Chinese dish combines the tender flavors of steamed chicken with the earthy sweetness of mushrooms and bamboo shoots, all within a quick and easy cooking time. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
– 1 cup sliced bamboo shoots
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a steamer basket, combine the mushrooms, bamboo shoots, and garlic.
3. Place the chicken on top of the vegetable mixture.
4. Steam over boiling water for 12-15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
5. Brush with soy sauce and sesame oil during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Pork and Shrimp Siu Mai
Pork and Shrimp Siu Mai: A Dim Sum Delight
Siu mai, a classic Cantonese dim sum dish, is typically served steamed with a delicate wrapper surrounding a savory filling. This recipe combines the richness of pork and shrimp to create a flavorful and textured bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1/2 pound ground pork
– 1/4 cup chopped cooked shrimp
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, thinly sliced for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine ground pork, chopped shrimp, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Place a small spoonful of the pork-shrimp mixture in the center of the wrapper.
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. Press the edges together to seal the filling inside.
4. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling. Steam the siu mai for 8-10 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Yield: 20-24 pieces
Steamed Egg Custard with Minced Pork
A classic Chinese dessert that combines the creaminess of egg custard with the savory flavor of minced pork, all wrapped up in a delicate steamed package. This comforting treat is perfect for a cozy evening or as a sweet surprise for guests.
Ingredients:
– 4 large eggs
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup minced pork (cooked and drained)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a steamer basket with boiling water.
2. In a blender or food processor, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, and water until smooth.
3. Add vegetable oil, garlic, and minced pork; blend until well combined.
4. Pour the mixture into small individual cups or ramekins.
5. Steam for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are set and the centers still slightly jiggly.
6. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
7. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lotus Leaf Wrapped Glutinous Rice
A classic Chinese dessert, Lotus Leaf Wrapped Glutinous Rice is a sweet and tender treat that’s perfect for special occasions or as a simple snack. This traditional recipe wraps glutinous rice in lotus leaves to create a delicate, fragrant, and chewy delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup glutinous rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 pieces of fresh lotus leaves (about 10 inches long)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the glutinous rice and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and wash the rice, then combine with salt and sugar in a pot. Add 2 cups of water and bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for about 15 minutes or until the rice is cooked and creamy.
4. Cut the lotus leaves into squares, big enough to wrap around the cooked rice.
5. Place a portion of cooked rice in the center of each leaf square. Fold the leaf over the rice to form a neat package, securing with toothpicks if needed.
6. Steam the wrapped rice for 10-15 minutes or until the lotus leaves are soft and pliable.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Steamed Scallops with Garlic and Glass Noodles
This simple yet flavorful dish combines succulent scallops with aromatic garlic and the sweetness of glass noodles, perfect for a quick weeknight meal. The steaming process helps retain the delicate texture and flavor of the scallops.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup glass noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the scallops under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a large steamer basket, combine the garlic and glass noodles.
3. Steam the mixture over boiling water for 5 minutes.
4. Add the scallops to the steamer basket and steam for an additional 3-4 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Remove the scallops from heat and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Red Bean Paste Buns
These soft and fluffy buns filled with sweet red bean paste are a popular Chinese dessert. Perfect as a snack or dessert, they’re easy to make and always a crowd pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup red bean paste (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt.
2. Gradually add in the warm water to form a dough. Knead for 10 minutes until smooth.
3. Divide the dough into 6-8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and then flatten slightly.
4. Place about 1 tablespoon of red bean paste in the center of each flat dough circle.
5. Fold the dough over the filling, forming a ball, and press edges together to seal.
6. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
7. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Steamed Tofu with Fermented Black Beans
This simple yet flavorful dish combines the creaminess of steamed tofu with the pungency of fermented black beans, creating a harmonious balance of textures and tastes.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into cubes
– 2 tablespoons fermented black beans (dòuchī)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring 2 inches of water to a boil in a steamer basket.
2. Place the tofu cubes in the steamer basket, leaving some space between each piece.
3. Steam the tofu for 8-10 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of tenderness.
4. Meanwhile, mix the fermented black beans, garlic, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil in a small bowl.
5. Once the tofu is cooked, remove from heat and brush with the fermented black bean mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with cilantro or scallions if desired.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chive and Shrimp Dumplings
These tender dumplings are filled with succulent shrimp and fragrant chives, perfect for a light and refreshing meal or appetizer. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create these delicious treats at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine shrimp, chives, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the shrimp mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. Dip your finger in water and run it along the edges 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. Cook dumplings by steaming or pan-frying for 3-5 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Steamed Spare Ribs with Black Bean Sauce
A flavorful and tender spare ribs recipe that combines the rich taste of black bean sauce with the comforting warmth of steaming. This dish is perfect for a cozy night in or as an impressive main course for a gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork spare ribs
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 cup black beans, cooked and mashed
– 2 cups water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine spare ribs, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and sesame oil. Add enough water to cover the ribs.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and steam for 30 minutes.
3. Meanwhile, mix mashed black beans with salt and pepper to taste.
4. After steaming the ribs, brush them with the black bean sauce.
5. Return the ribs to the pot and steam for an additional 10 minutes.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Vegetable and Tofu Steamed Buns
A delicious and healthy twist on traditional steamed buns, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of vegetables with the savory flavor of tofu.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup firm tofu, crumbled
– 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (e.g. carrots, zucchini, bell peppers)
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and salt.
2. Gradually add warm water to form a dough.
3. Knead the dough for 5 minutes until smooth.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise for 30 minutes.
5. Preheat steamer to high heat.
6. Divide the dough into small portions and shape into buns.
7. Place tofu and mixed vegetables on top of each bun.
8. Steam the buns for 10-12 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Steamed Crab with Ginger and Vinegar Dip
This recipe combines succulent crab meat with the warmth of ginger and a tangy kick from vinegar, perfect for a light and refreshing seafood dish. With minimal ingredients and easy preparation, this flavorful treat is ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat (fresh or frozen)
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and sliced thinly
– 1/4 cup white wine vinegar
– 2 tablespoons water
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large steamer basket, place the crab meat.
2. Place the steamer over boiling water, cover with a lid, and steam for 8-10 minutes or until crab is opaque and flakes easily.
3. Meanwhile, combine ginger slices, vinegar, and water in a small saucepan.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Serve steamed crab with the warm ginger-vinegar dip spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sticky Rice with Chinese Sausage
This classic Chinese comfort food is a staple in many households, particularly during special occasions and family gatherings. With its rich flavors and tender texture, sticky rice with Chinese sausage is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked glutinous or “sweet” rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 Chinese sausages (lap cheong), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for at least 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the oil in a large saucepan or wok over medium heat. Add the sausages and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, soy sauce, and salt to the pan. Stir-fry for another minute.
4. Add the rice to the pan and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes, or until the rice is well coated with the sausage mixture.
5. Add the water to the pan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the liquid has been absorbed and the rice is cooked.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Steamed Eggplant with Garlic and Chili Sauce
This simple yet flavorful recipe highlights the natural sweetness of eggplant, paired with the pungency of garlic and a kick of chili sauce. Perfect as a side dish or add it to your favorite stir-fry.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chili sauce (such as sriracha)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a steamer basket over boiling water.
2. Cut the eggplants into 1-inch thick slices.
3. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and chili sauce.
4. Place the eggplant slices in the steamer basket, leaving some space between each piece.
5. Brush the garlic-chili mixture evenly onto both sides of the eggplant.
6. Steam for 8-10 minutes or until the eggplant is tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Summary
Discover the art of steaming with these 18 flavorful bamboo steamer recipes. From classic Chinese dishes like Steamed Pork Buns with Hoisin Sauce and Dim Sum Shrimp Har Gow to innovative creations like Steamed Fish with Ginger and Scallions and Steamed Tofu with Fermented Black Beans, there’s something for every palate. Explore a variety of international flavors, from sticky rice in lotus leaves to red bean paste buns and glutinous rice wrapped in lotus leaves. Each recipe is easy to follow and requires minimal ingredients, making it perfect for health-conscious home cooks looking to add some excitement to their meals.
Leave a Reply