How to Steam Dumplings with and Without a Bamboo Steamer

Dumplings are a popular dish worldwide, known for their delicious fillings and versatile cooking methods. Steaming dumplings is one of the healthiest ways to enjoy them, helping to preserve their flavor and texture. While a bamboo steamer is traditionally used for this purpose, there are alternative methods if you don’t have one on hand. In this article, we’ll explore how to steam dumplings both with and without a bamboo steamer.

Steaming Dumplings with a Bamboo Steamer

Using a bamboo steamer is the traditional method for steaming dumplings. Bamboo steamers are designed to stack on top of each other, allowing steam to circulate evenly, which cooks the dumplings gently and keeps them moist. Here’s how you can do it:

What You’ll Need:

• A bamboo steamer
• A wok or a pot
• Parchment paper or cabbage leaves
• Water

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Steamer: Start by lining the bamboo steamer baskets with parchment paper or cabbage leaves. This prevents the dumplings from sticking to the basket. If using parchment paper, consider poking a few holes in it to allow steam to pass through.

2. Place the Dumplings: Arrange the dumplings in the bamboo basket, leaving some space between each one to ensure they don’t stick together when they expand during cooking.

3. Prepare Your Wok or Pot: Fill your wok or pot with about two inches of water, ensuring the water level is lower than the bottom of the steamer when it is placed inside. Bring the water to a boil.

4. Start Steaming: Once the water is boiling, place the bamboo steamer on top of the wok or pot. Cover the top of the bamboo steamer with its lid. Steam for about 10-15 minutes, depending on the size of the dumplings and whether they were fresh or frozen.

5. Enjoy: Carefully remove the bamboo steamer from the wok or pot. Open the lid, and let the dumplings cool for a minute before serving. Enjoy your perfectly steamed dumplings!

Steaming Dumplings Without a Bamboo Steamer

Don’t have a bamboo steamer? No problem. You can use a metal steamer or create a makeshift steamer with items you likely already have in your kitchen.

Using a Metal Steamer:

• A metal steamer works similarly to a bamboo steamer and can be placed over a pot of boiling water.
• Arrange the dumplings on the steamer’s platform, leaving space between them.
• Cover with the pot’s lid and steam for about 10-15 minutes.

Making a DIY Steamer:

What You’ll Need:

• A large pot with a lid
• A metal colander or a heat-resistant plate
• Aluminum foil or a heat-resistant bowl (if using a plate)
• Water

Instructions:

1. Prepare Your Pot: Fill your pot with about an inch or two of water, ensuring that the water level is below the colander or plate when positioned in the pot.

2. Colander Method: If using a colander, place it inside the pot and ensure it doesn’t touch the water. Arrange the dumplings inside the colander, leaving some space between each.

Plate Method: If using a plate, make three balls of aluminum foil or use a heat-resistant bowl upside down in the pot to support the plate above the water. Arrange the dumplings on the plate, ensuring they’re not overcrowded.

1. Boil and Steam: Bring the water to a boil, then lower the heat to maintain a steady stream of steam. Cover the pot with its lid. Steam the dumplings for about 10-15 minutes, checking occasionally to ensure the pot doesn’t run dry.

2. Enjoy: Once done, carefully remove the colander or plate from the pot. Let the dumplings cool for a moment before serving.

Steaming dumplings, whether with a bamboo steamer or without one, is a simple and versatile cooking method. By following these easy steps, you can enjoy delicious, perfectly steamed dumplings any time at home. Happy cooking!