To steam vegetables, place them over boiling water so the steam cooks them while keeping their nutrients and flavor intact. This can be done using a steamer basket over a pot, a collapsible steamer basket, or even in the microwave with a little water. Here is a simple step-by-step:
- Prepare vegetables by cutting them into bite-sized pieces if needed. Hard vegetables like carrots should be sliced; leafy greens can be left whole.
- Add about 2 inches of water to a pan and bring to a boil.
- Place vegetables in a steamer basket or strainer that fits over the pan without touching the water.
- Cover with a lid to trap steam and cook until vegetables are tender. Cooking times vary by vegetable (e.g., carrots 6-8 mins, broccoli 5 mins, green beans 4-5 mins).
- Alternatively, put vegetables in a microwave-safe bowl with 2-3 tbsp water, cover, and microwave until tender.
- Remove and season as desired.
Steaming keeps vegetables tender, flavorful, and nutrient-rich without using oil or boiling them in water, which can leach nutrients. Different vegetables steam at different times, so stagger adding them to the steamer to have everything ready together.
