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A
traditional bamboo steamer is attractive enough to serve as a tray
for the steamed foods. The texture of the bamboo allows steam to
circulate and evaporate so that less moisture will form on the inside
of the lid. The bamboo steamer has the additional asset of allowing
more than one layer of food to be steamed simultaneously - just
stack a second basket on top of the first.
Steamers
are placed above hot water in a wok. Arrange food to be steamed
in a flat heatproof dish or foil pie pan before placing it in the
steamer. Or place lettuce or bok choy leaves directly on the steamer
and then place food on top of the leaves. This works great with
steaming dumplings. When making steamed bread, lightly grease the
bamboo slats and then place the dough directly in the steamer. When
finished, remember to take off the lid and let the steam disperse
before reaching in for food. Asian grocery stores also sell metal
steamers. Metal steamers come with a saucepan that can hold water
for steaming. |
