Are you tired of the same old weeknight meals? Look no further! Steamers are a quick and easy way to cook a variety of delicious dishes, from savory meats to sweet treats. In this article, we’ll explore 20 flavorful steamer recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights.
From Asian-inspired dishes like Steamed Ginger Soy Salmon and Chinese Dim Sum Pork Buns, to comforting classics like Steamed Mussels in White Wine Sauce and Fluffy Chinese Steamed Buns, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a meat-eater or a vegetarian, our list of steamer recipes is sure to satisfy your cravings.
In this article, we’ll dive into the world of steamers and explore some of the most delicious and easy-to-make recipes out there. So grab your steamer basket and let’s get cooking!
Steamed Ginger Soy Salmon
Elevate your seafood game with this simple yet flavorful Steamed Ginger Soy Salmon recipe. This Asian-inspired dish combines the richness of salmon with the spicy warmth of ginger and the savory sweetness of soy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Fresh scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat a steamer basket with 2 cups of water.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, water, brown sugar, and sesame oil.
3. Place the salmon fillets in the steamer basket.
4. Add sliced ginger on top of the salmon.
5. Pour the soy sauce mixture evenly over the fish.
6. Steam for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with fresh scallions and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Chinese Dim Sum Pork Buns
These soft and fluffy pork buns are a classic Chinese dim sum delight, filled with savory pork and steamed to perfection. In just a few easy steps, you can create these delicious treats at home.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons instant yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Filling ingredients:
+ 1 pound ground pork
+ 2 cloves garlic, minced
+ 1 tablespoon soy sauce
+ 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
+ 1 scallion, chopped
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and salt.
2. Gradually add warm water and milk to form a dough.
3. Knead for 10 minutes until smooth.
4. Divide dough into small balls.
5. Roll out each ball into a thin circle.
6. Place pork filling in center of each circle.
7. Fold dough over filling, forming a bun shape.
8. Steam buns for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thai Coconut Sticky Rice
A classic Thai dessert that’s both sweet and savory, this sticky rice is infused with the creamy goodness of coconut milk.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup glutinous or “sweet” rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 1/4 cup palm sugar (or brown sugar)
– 1 tablespoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon pandan extract (optional, but recommended for authentic flavor)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice thoroughly and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and rinse the rice again. Combine with 2 cups of fresh water in a medium saucepan.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and creamy.
4. Stir in coconut milk, palm sugar, salt, and pandan extract (if using).
5. Continue cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sticky rice is well coated with the coconut mixture.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Thai Coconut Sticky Rice!
Steamed Mussels in White Wine Sauce
Experience the simplicity of a classic seafood dish with this flavorful recipe. Fresh mussels steamed to perfection and served in a rich white wine sauce, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds fresh mussels, scrubbed and debearded
– 1/4 cup white wine (dry)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the mussels under cold water and remove any broken shells.
2. In a large pot or steamer basket, combine the mussels, white wine, butter, garlic, chicken broth, and lemon juice.
3. Cover the pot or basket with a lid and steam for 5-7 minutes, or until the mussels are open.
4. Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Vegetable Dumplings with Spicy Dipping Sauce
A flavorful twist on traditional dumplings, these veggie-packed treats are perfect for a quick and easy meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g. cabbage, carrots, bean sprouts)
– 1 package round wonton wrappers
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Spicy Dipping Sauce:
+ 1/2 cup sriracha sauce
+ 1/4 cup mayonnaise
+ 1 tablespoon lime juice
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine mixed vegetables, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the vegetable mixture in the center.
3. Brush edges with water and fold into a triangle or pleat shape to form a dumpling.
4. Cook dumplings in boiling water for 5-7 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
5. Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Fry cooked dumplings until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
6. To make Spicy Dipping Sauce, mix all ingredients together and refrigerate until ready.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Steamed Lemon Garlic Shrimp
Brighten up your mealtime with this refreshing and flavorful Steamed Lemon Garlic Shrimp recipe. Succulent shrimp infused with zesty lemon and aromatic garlic, perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a large steamer basket, combine the garlic and lemon juice.
3. Add the shrimp to the steamer basket, leaving some space between each piece.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the shrimp and season with salt and pepper.
5. Steam the shrimp for 8-10 minutes or until they turn pink and are cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Fluffy Chinese Steamed Buns
Steamy, soft, and fluffy buns filled with love – just like Nai Nai (grandma) used to make! This recipe brings the authentic taste of traditional Chinese steamed buns into your own kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon instant yeast
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– Filling of choice (e.g., sweet red bean paste, savory pork or vegetable)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, and yeast.
2. Gradually add in warm water, sugar, and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Cover with plastic wrap and let rest for 1 hour.
5. Divide the dough into small portions (about the size of a small egg).
6. Roll each portion into a ball, then flatten slightly to form a disk shape.
7. Place your desired filling in the center, fold the edges to enclose, and seal with a fork.
8. Steam buns over boiling water for 12-15 minutes or until fluffy and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Steamed Cod with Black Bean Sauce
This Asian-inspired dish combines the delicate flavor of cod with the savory richness of black bean sauce, all in just a few simple steps. Serve over steamed rice or noodles for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat steamer basket with 2 inches of water.
2. Season cod fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Steam cod for 8-10 minutes, or until cooked through.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together black beans, garlic, soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and cornstarch.
5. Add water to the bowl and whisk until smooth.
6. Serve steamed cod with black bean sauce spooned over the top.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Japanese Chawanmushi (Savory Egg Custard)
Chawanmushi is a popular Japanese savory egg custard dish, often served as part of a traditional kaiseki meal or as an appetizer. This recipe yields a creamy and flavorful custard filled with delicate flavors.
Ingredients:
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup dashi broth (or chicken stock)
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 160°C (325°F).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, dashi broth, milk, salt, and white pepper until well combined.
3. Strain the mixture into a clean bowl to remove any air bubbles.
4. Pour the mixture into small ceramic cups or ramekins.
5. Place the cups in a large baking dish and add hot water to come halfway up the sides of the cups.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers are still slightly jiggly.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool to room temperature.
8. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Steamed Chicken with Mushrooms
A classic combination of flavors and textures, this recipe yields a tender and juicy chicken breast paired with earthy mushrooms.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat steamer basket over boiling water.
2. In a small bowl, mix together chicken breast, mushrooms, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the mixture in the steamer basket and drizzle with olive oil.
4. Steam for 12-15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the mushrooms are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Vietnamese Banh Bao (Steamed Pork Buns)
Vietnamese Banh Bao are soft, fluffy buns filled with savory pork and vegetables, perfect for a satisfying snack or meal. This recipe yields 12-15 buns, ideal for sharing with friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon instant yeast
– 1/2 cup warm water
– Filling ingredients:
+ 1 pound ground pork
+ 1 onion, finely chopped
+ 2 cloves garlic, minced
+ 1 tablespoon soy sauce
+ 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
+ Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and yeast.
2. Gradually add warm water and mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Divide the dough into 12-15 portions and shape each into a ball.
5. Flatten each ball into a disk using a rolling pin or your hands.
6. Place a tablespoon of pork filling in the center of each disk, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
7. Fold the dough over the filling to form a bun, pressing edges together to seal.
8. Brush the tops with vegetable oil and steam for 12-15 minutes.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Steamed Broccoli with Garlic Butter
A flavorful and healthy side dish that’s quick to prepare and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 broccoli crowns, trimmed
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, optional (about 1/4 cup)
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with 2 inches of water and bring to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to a simmer and place a steamer basket over the boiling water.
3. Add broccoli crowns to the steamer basket, cover with a lid, and steam for 5-7 minutes or until tender but still crisp.
4. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute or until fragrant.
5. Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve steamed broccoli with garlic butter drizzled on top. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Scallion Ginger Steamed Fish
A delicate and flavorful dish that pairs perfectly with steamed vegetables or a simple salad. This recipe is a great way to prepare fish without overpowering its natural taste.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish fillets (white fish such as cod, tilapia, or mahi-mahi)
– 1/2 cup scallions, thinly sliced
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat steamer basket with 1-2 inches of water.
2. In a small bowl, mix together scallions, ginger, soy sauce, and olive oil.
3. Place fish fillets in the steamer basket and brush the top of each fillet with the scallion-ginger mixture.
4. Cover the steamer and steam for 8-10 minutes or until fish is cooked through.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Steamed Eggplant with Garlic Sauce
This recipe brings together the natural sweetness of eggplant and the pungency of garlic, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. Perfect as a side dish or main course, this steamed eggplant with garlic sauce is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized eggplants
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat steamer basket over boiling water.
2. Cut eggplant into 1-inch thick slices and place in the steamer basket.
3. Steam eggplant for 10-12 minutes, or until tender.
4. In a small saucepan, heat vegetable oil over medium heat.
5. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently.
6. Stir in soy sauce, honey, salt, and pepper.
7. Serve garlic sauce over steamed eggplant.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Sticky Rice with Chinese Sausage
A classic Chinese comfort food, this dish combines the savory flavor of Chinese sausage with the sweetness of sticky rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked glutinous (sticky) rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 4-6 Chinese sausages (lap cheong or cha siu), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the sticky rice and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and rinse the rice again.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and 2 cups of fresh water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low and cover. Simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and sticky.
4. Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced Chinese sausages and cook until browned, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Add the minced garlic to the wok and stir-fry for another minute.
6. Stir in soy sauce and salt to taste.
7. Serve the cooked sticky rice with the Chinese sausage mixture spooned on top.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Steamed Clams with Herbed Butter
Fresh clams paired with a flavorful herbed butter make for a simple yet impressive appetizer or main course. This recipe showcases the sweetness of the clams and the aromatic zest of fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 2 dozen littleneck clams, scrubbed clean
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the clams under cold water and place them in a large steamer basket.
2. In a small saucepan, combine the softened butter, parsley, chives, garlic, salt, and pepper. Heat over low heat until the butter is melted and fragrant.
3. Place the steamer basket over boiling water, ensuring that the clams are not submerged in water.
4. Steam the clams for 3-5 minutes or until they open.
5. Remove the clams from the steamer and place them on a serving platter. Spoon the herbed butter over the clams and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including preparation time)
Spinach and Tofu Steamed Dumplings
A delicious and healthy twist on traditional dumplings, these spinach and tofu steamed dumplings are perfect for a quick and easy meal. Simply combine fresh spinach and silken tofu with a few simple ingredients, shape into dumplings, and steam to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 package round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup silken tofu, crumbled
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine spinach, tofu, soy sauce, sesame oil, and chopped onion.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a flat surface and place about 1 tablespoon of the spinach mixture in the center.
3. 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 dumplings over boiling water for 8-10 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Steamed Red Bean Buns
These soft and fluffy steamed buns filled with sweet red bean paste make a delightful snack or dessert. Perfect for a quick treat any time of the day!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1/4 teaspoon instant yeast
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup red bean paste (homemade or store-bought)
– Sesame seeds for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, warm water, yeast, sugar, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
2. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. Divide the dough into small balls, about 1 tablespoon each.
4. Place a spoonful of red bean paste in the center of each ball.
5. Fold the dough over to form a bun shape, and seal the edges by pressing gently with your fingers.
6. Steam the buns over boiling water for 12-15 minutes, or until they are cooked through and fluffy.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lemon Herb Steamed Artichokes
Elevate your artichoke game with this bright and citrusy recipe that combines the natural sweetness of steaming with the tanginess of lemon and herbs. Perfect for a light and refreshing side dish or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 4 large artichokes
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 1/4 cup)
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
1. Preheat steamer basket or a pot with a tight-fitting lid.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, parsley, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Trim artichoke stems to fit the steamer basket or pot.
4. Place artichokes in the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the lemon mixture.
5. Add butter to the bowl and toss to melt and coat artichokes.
6. Steam artichokes for 25-30 minutes, or until leaves can be easily pulled off.
7. Serve warm with melted butter for dipping.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Steamed Sponge Cake
Discover the simplicity of steaming sponge cake, a delicate and moist dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, at room temperature
Instructions:
1. Preheat the steamer basket according to manufacturer’s instructions.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk eggs until frothy.
4. Add milk and whisk until smooth.
5. Pour the egg mixture into the dry ingredients and whisk until just combined.
6. Pour the batter into an ungreased 7-inch (18cm) round cake pan or ramekin.
7. Steam for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your weeknights with these 20 flavorful steamer recipes! From savory seafood dishes like Steamed Ginger Soy Salmon and Steamed Mussels in White Wine Sauce, to Asian-inspired favorites like Chinese Dim Sum Pork Buns and Vietnamese Banh Bao (Steamed Pork Buns), there’s something for everyone. Discover new twists on old classics, such as Steamed Cod with Black Bean Sauce and Spinach and Tofu Steamed Dumplings. Whether you’re in the mood for a light and refreshing dinner or a comforting treat, these recipes are sure to please.