7 Bamboo Steamer Recipes Made Quick and Easy

If you’ve ever seen a bamboo steamer, you might have thought, “That looks cool, but what am I supposed to do with it?” Don’t worry—you’re not alone! These thoughts are relatively common.

These stackable tools might seem a mystery if you’ve never used one, but they’ve been a go-to kitchen tool in Asian cooking for centuries.

Bamboo steamers are more than just beautiful; they’re practical, eco-friendly, and versatile enough to handle everything from dumplings to desserts.

Additionally, cooking in a steamer is a healthier alternative to frying, as steaming locks in nutrients and natural flavors and also doesn’t need all the excess oil. Bamboo steamers aren’t just for cooking; they’re a stylish alternative to serve food. You can give a unique touch to your presentation to food like sushi, fish, or other dishes as well.

If you’re ready to try your hand at steaming, you’re in the right place. From fluffy bao buns to vibrant vegetables, these bamboo steamer recipes are quick, easy, and guaranteed to make your meals shine.

Let’s get steaming! 

TL;DR - Best Bamboo Steamer Recipes

Want to learn recipes with bamboo steamers but short on time? Here’s a quick rundown of what you can make with your steamer.

• Dumplings: A classic favorite, perfect for appetizers or snacks.
• Chicken: Juicy and flavourful with minimal effort.
• Fish: Light, flaky, and perfectly cooked every time.
• Rice: Fluffy and tender, with no need for a rice cooker.
• Bao Buns: Soft, pillowy buns ready for your favorite fillings.
• Vegan Dishes: Tofu, vegetables, and plant-based goodness.
• Desserts: Yes, you can even cook sweet treats like steamed buns and sticky rice.

These bamboo steamer recipes are just the beginning of a whole new culinary experience. With the right recipes and tools, you’ll be steaming like a chef in no time.

If you’re looking for the perfect bamboo steamer, BlauKe’s eco-friendly options combine style and durability to elevate your meals.

Benefits of Cooking with a Bamboo Steamer

If you’re someone who feels cooking isn’t just about filling your stomach, but rather, about creating something healthy, appealing, and delicious, you definitely must try cooking in bamboo steamers! 

Here’s why it deserves a spot in your kitchen:

• Locks in Flavor and Nutrients: Steaming keeps your food’s natural goodness intact. There is no drowning in oil or overcooking–just perfectly tender and flavourful bites every time.

• Healthier Cooking Alternative: Say goodbye to frying and hello to clean, oil-free meals. It’s a win-win for your taste buds and health.
  

• Stackable Cooking: Cook an entire meal in one go! Put dumplings on the top tier, vegetables in the middle, and fluffy rice on the bottom. It’s efficient and saves time and energy.

• Gentle on Food: Steaming is kind to delicate foods like fish or dumplings, ensuring they cook evenly without falling apart.

• Eco-friendly and Stylish: Made from natural materials, bamboo steamers are reusable, sustainable, and look fantastic in your kitchen.

Make your next meal healthier, tastier, and a whole lot easier.

7 Easy Bamboo Steamer Recipes to Try

Think bamboo steamers are just for dumplings? While it’s one of the classics to cook in bamboo steamers, that’s not all it can steam. This versatile kitchen tool can handle everything from juicy chicken to delicate desserts. 

These simple recipes are the perfect place to start if you're a curious beginner:

1. Bamboo Steamer Dumpling Recipe - Steamed Dumplings

Let’s start with the classic: dumplings. Whether you’re making them from scratch or steaming up frozen ones, they’re always a hit. 

This amazing dumpling recipe is from the blog “Maangchi”. In her blog you’ll find other variations of this recipe. 

For a fast and easy recipe, here’s what you need to do:

Ingredients

For the Dumpling Filling:

• 1 cup ground pork (or minced chicken/shrimp)
• ½ cup finely shredded napa cabbage
• ¼ cup chopped scallions or chives
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp oyster sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp grated ginger and garlic
• Little white pepper and salt

For Dumpling Wrappers:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup warm water

Note: You can also buy pre-made dumpling wrappers from the store.

Instructions

1. Mix flour and water into a dough, knead until smooth, and let it rest for 30 minutes. Divide and roll into thin wrappers. 
2. Combine all filling ingredients in a bowl and cook for a minute. 
3. Add 1-2 teaspoons filling to each wrapper, fold, and seal edges.  
4. Line your bamboo steamer with parchment or cabbage leaves.
5. Place dumplings inside, spaced out evenly.
6. Steam over boiling water for 8-10 minutes.
7. Enjoy while it’s hot with soy sauce, vinegar, and chili oil. 

Note: If you're using frozen dumplings, adjust the cooking time to 10-12 minutes.

2. Bamboo Steamer Chicken Recipe - Garlic-Ginger-Soy Steamed Chicken

Upgrade steamed chicken with the aromatic duo of garlic and ginger, paired with soy sauce and sesame oil, for a flavor-packed meal.

Tiffy, owner of the website “tiffy cooks” in her blog says this recipe will warm you up on a gloomy weather.

Ingredients

• Two chicken breasts or thighs 
• Two garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil

Instructions

1. Marinate the chicken with garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil for 15-20 minutes.
2. Place the chicken in the steamer, ensuring it’s in a single layer.
3. Steam for 20-25 minutes until chicken is fully cooked and juicy.
4. You can serve it with some freshly steamed rice or noodles for a satisfying meal.

This dish is light, nutritious, and brimming with flavor—perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy meal prep option.

3. Bamboo Steamer Fish Recipe - Ginger-Scallion Steamed Salmon

Elevate your seafood cooking to another level with this ginger-scallion steamed salmon recipe by the blog “Made With Lau”. It’s light, healthy, and full of vibrant flavors that let the fish shine.

Ingredients

• 1 salmon fillet
• 2 scallions, sliced
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, julienned 
• 1 tbsp soy sauce 
• 1 tsp sesame oil

Instructions

1. Lay the salmon on the bamboo basket lined with parchment paper or on a plate that fits in your steamer. If they put it on a plate, do they have to put the plate inside the steamer and cook with it inside?
2. Top with scallions, ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
3. Steam for 8-10 minutes until the salmon is flaky and tender.
4. Serve with a side of steamed greens or jasmine rice.

This dish is perfect for a quick, healthy dinner that’s elegant enough for entertaining.

4. Bamboo Steamer Rice Recipe - Steamed Coconut Rice

Coconut rice is going to be your next favorite rice recipe. Steamed to fluffy perfection in a bamboo steamer, it’s fragrant, creamy, and the ultimate side dish for curries and stir-fries. 

This is also known as “Nasi Lemak” a Malaysian dish that is cooked around the nation and is loved for its comforting feel.

Ingredients

• 1 cup jasmine rice
• 1 cup coconut milk
• ½ cup water

Instructions

1. Rinse the rice until the water runs clear.
2. Mix the required amount of rice, coconut milk, and water in a heatproof bowl.
3. Line the steamer with cheesecloth and place the rice in the steamer then cover, and let it steam for about 25-30 minutes until the rice is fully cooked.
4. Serve as a side dish or base for your favorite curry.

Transform your plain rice into an aromatic delight, perfectly complementing any meal with its rich texture and aroma.

5. Vegan Bamboo Steamer Recipe - Steamed Tofu and Broccoli

Bright, healthy, and delicious, this tofu and vegetable medley is a vegan favorite packed with nutrients and bold flavors. The recipe by the blog yoga journal is a must try!

Ingredients 

• 1 block of firm tofu, cubed
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup carrot slices
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder 

Instructions

1. Cube the tofu and slice the carrot on a cutting board.
2. Mix soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic powder, and let the tofu marinate in it for 15 minutes.
3. Line the bottom of the basket with parchment paper to prevent food from sticking.
4. Steam for 10-12 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp and the tofu is warmed.
5. Serve with brown rice or quinoa for a wholesome meal.

This dish is vibrant, nutrient-rich, and a great quick, balanced meal option.

6. Bamboo Steamer Bun Recipe - Steamed Bao Buns

Who doesn’t love bao buns? These pillowy clouds of goodness, stuffed with sweet and savory barbecue pork, are the ultimate comfort food. Traditionally this recipe is named “Gua Bao Buns” as mentioned in the kitchn’s blog.

Ingredients

• 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 2 tsp instant yeast
• ½ tsp baking powder
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• ¾ cup warm water

Instructions

1. Add all the dry ingredients in a large bowl.

2. Mix in warm water and vegetable oil while stirring until a dough is formed.

3. Mix and knead the dough, then cover it and let it rise for 1-1.5 hours (until doubled in size).

4. Knock down the fermented dough and portion it into 15 equal pieces.

5. Shape it into buns, brush a thin layer of vegetable oil and place them on parchment paper.

6. Cover the buns with a damp cloth and let them rise for another 30 minutes. 

7. Put them in the bamboo steamer and steam for 10-12 minutes until the buns are fluffy.

The combination of tender barbecue pork and soft, steamed bao buns creates a flavor-packed treat that’s hard to resist. It could be the perfect addition to a bamboo cheese board spread at your next charcuterie party.

7. Bamboo Steamer Dessert Recipe - Thai-Inspired Coconut Sticky Rice with Mango

Dessert might seem unlikely to be cooked in a bamboo steamer, but you’ve got to try this Thai-inspired coconut sticky rice with mango (Khao Niao Mamuanga)!

It’s creamy, tropical, and the perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth. The recipe by Serious Eats will make you fall in love with steamed desserts.

Ingredients

• 1 cup glutinous rice
• 1 cup coconut milk
• ¼ cup sugar
• 1 ripe mango, sliced

Instructions

1. Soak the glutinous rice in water for 4-6 hours, then drain.

2. Line the bamboo steamer with cheesecloth, spread the rice evenly, and steam for 25-30 minutes.

3. Grab a small pot to warm the coconut milk and mix sugar until dissolved. 

4. Transfer the cooked rice to a heatproof bowl and pour the coconut milk mixture. Mix well to combine and set it aside to absorb the liquid.

5. Serve the sticky rice with freshly cut mango slices and top it with the remaining coconut milk.

This dessert combines fruity freshness with a velvety texture, offering a perfectly balanced indulgence. Impress your guests with this tropical dessert, or enjoy it all by yourself!

Tips to Perfect Your Bamboo Steamer Recipes

Never fail on any recipe cooked in a bamboo steamer with these smart tricks:

• Prevent Sticking: Line your baskets with parchment paper, banana leaves, or cabbage leaves to prevent your food from sticking to the base of the steaming baskets.

• Don’t Overcrowd: Leave some breathing room for your food to get cooked evenly. Steam can circulate freely with a bit of space in between, giving perfectly cooked food.

• Add Flavor to the Steam: Why steam with plain water when you can experiment with multiple flavors? Toss in a few springs of fresh herbs, slices of ginger, or whole spices. The subtle aroma will infuse your dishes, making them even more irresistible.

• Stack Smart: Not all ingredients steam at the same pace. Place items that take longer to cook, like chicken or dense vegetables, on the bottom tier where the stem is hottest. Save the top tier for quick-cooking things like dumplings or leafy greens.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Still got questions about using a bamboo steamer? 

Here are some answers to help you steam efficiently and keep your steamer in perfect condition for years to come:

How Long to Steam Frozen Dumplings in a Bamboo Steamer?

Frozen dumplings take a bit longer to cook than fresh ones. Steam them for 10-12 minutes over boiling water until fully cooked and bubbling hot.

For best results, ensure they don’t touch each other so the steam can circulate.

How Do I Keep Food from Sticking in a Bamboo Steamer?

Avoid sticky situations by lining your steamer with parchment paper, banana leaves, or cabbage leaves. 

These act as a non-stick layer, allowing the steam to do its magic. Plus, they make cleanup a breeze!

How to Clean a Bamboo Steamer?

Cleaning your bamboo steamer is simple! Just follow these steps:

1. Allow the steamer to cool completely before cleaning.
2. Scrub the steamer gently with warm water and a soft sponge—skip the soap to avoid lingering smells.
3. Mix some vinegar into the warm water if there's any funky odor.
4. Completely air dry before storing to prevent mold.

Learning how to clean bamboo steamers and taking good care of them ensures they stay in top shape for all your delicious recipes!

Ready to Cook? Buy the Best Bamboo Steamer

If you want to perfect your bamboo steamer recipes, choosing the right steamer makes all the difference. Look for something that’s sturdy, made from 100% bamboo, and sized to suit your cooking adventures.

That’s where BlauKe comes to your rescue. Our bamboo steamers combine eco-friendliness, premium quality, and elegant design, giving you a kitchen essential that’s as stylish as it is functional.

Crafted from sustainable bamboo, these steamers are durable, practical, and the perfect addition to any kitchen striving for a greener future. Add our bamboo kitchen utensils to have a wholesome cooking experience.

Upgrade your kitchen with BlauKe’s bamboo steamers! They aren’t just tools; they can be your partner in creating healthy, delicious meals while staying kind to the planet. Add this essential piece to your collection and enjoy a seamless, eco-friendly way to cook, perfectly complemented by our wood kitchen accessories.

Conclusion

A simple bamboo steamer could unlock a world of flavor and versatility. Cooking with a bamboo steamer isn’t just easy; it’s an experience that brings out the best in every ingredient. Plus, it’s a healthier, eco-friendly way to elevate your cooking.

Ditch the frying pan and embrace steam cooking! Our premium bamboo steamer makes your meals healthier and more flavorful. Durable, stylish, and sustainable, it’s the perfect partner in your kitchen.

Make some room in your kitchen for BlauKe’s bamboo steamer and pair it with wood kitchen accessories for a seamless cooking experience.