How To Steam Dumplings Without Steamer?

Steamed dumplings, also known as dim sum, are a popular Chinese dish that is enjoyed by many people around the world. While a steamer basket is a traditional way to steam dumplings, not everyone has one readily available. Fortunately, there are several methods that you can use to steam dumplings without a steamer basket. In this guide, we will explore some of these methods so that you can enjoy delicious steamed dumplings even if you don’t have a steamer basket.

How To Steam Dumplings Without Steamer

Let’s discuss some of the best methods to steam dumplings without a steamer.

Method 1: Using a Pot and Plate

A. Step-by-step instructions:

Boil the water: Fill a pot with about 1-2 inches of water and bring it to a boil over high heat.

Prepare the plate: In the meantime, select a heat-safe plate that fits snugly inside the pot. Ideally, the plate should be slightly smaller than the pot to allow steam to circulate around the dumplings. Lightly grease the plate with cooking spray or oil to prevent sticking.

Place the dumplings on the plate: Once the water is boiling, arrange the dumplings on the plate in a single layer, leaving some space between them to prevent sticking. Make sure the dumplings are not touching each other or the sides of the pot.

Steam the dumplings: Carefully place the plate on top of the pot, ensuring that the plate is elevated above the water level by placing it on top of a small inverted bowl or heat-resistant rack. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid to trap the steam. Reduce the heat to medium-high and let the dumplings steam for 8-10 minutes or until the filling is cooked through and the wrappers are translucent.

B. Tips and Tricks:

• Choose a heat-safe plate that fits snugly inside the pot to ensure efficient steaming.
• Grease the plate with cooking spray or oil to prevent the dumplings from sticking to the plate.
• Place the dumplings on the plate in a single layer and leave some space between them to prevent sticking.
• Elevate the plate above the water level by placing it on top of a small inverted bowl or heat-resistant rack to ensure that the dumplings are steamed evenly.
• Use a tight-fitting lid to trap the steam and ensure that the dumplings are cooked through.
• Do not lift the lid during steaming to prevent the escape of steam and loss of heat.

Method 2: Using a Wok

A. Step-by-step instructions:

Prepare the wok: Fill a wok with about 1-2 inches of water and bring it to a boil over high heat.

Add water to the wok: Once the water is boiling, reduce the heat to medium-high and add a steaming rack or a heat-resistant plate with holes to the wok.

Place the dumplings on a plate or in a bowl: Arrange the dumplings on a heat-resistant plate or in a heat-resistant bowl. Make sure the dumplings are not touching each other or the sides of the plate/bowl.

Steam the dumplings: Place the plate/bowl with the dumplings on the steaming rack or in the wok, making sure that it is elevated above the water level. Cover the wok with a tight-fitting lid to trap the steam. Steam the dumplings for 8-10 minutes or until the filling is cooked through and the wrappers are translucent.

B. Tips and Tricks:

• Make sure the plate/bowl you use is heat-resistant and fits inside the wok.
• Choose a steaming rack or a heat-resistant plate with holes to allow steam to circulate around the dumplings.
• Place the dumplings on the plate/bowl in a single layer and leave some space between them to prevent sticking.
• Use a tight-fitting lid to trap the steam and ensure that the dumplings are cooked through.
• Do not lift the lid during steaming to prevent the escape of steam and loss of heat.
• If you are steaming a large batch of dumplings, steam them in batches to ensure even cooking.

Method 3: Using a Microwave

A. Step-by-step instructions:

Place the dumplings in a microwave-safe dish: Arrange the dumplings in a single layer in a microwave-safe dish, leaving some space between them to prevent sticking.

Add water to the dish: Add 1-2 tablespoons of water to the dish. The water will create steam to cook the dumplings.

Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap: Cover the dish tightly with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap to trap the steam.

Microwave the dumplings: Microwave the dumplings on high for 2-3 minutes, or until the filling is cooked through and the wrappers are translucent.

B. Tips and Tricks:

• Use a microwave-safe dish and cover it tightly to prevent the escape of steam and loss of heat.
• Add only 1-2 tablespoons of water to the dish to prevent the dumplings from becoming soggy.
• Microwave the dumplings in short intervals to prevent overcooking. Check the dumplings after 1 minute and continue microwaving in 30-second intervals until they are cooked through.
• Let the dumplings rest for a minute or two after microwaving to allow them to cool slightly and prevent burns.

Common Questions

A. Can you steam dumplings without a lid?

It is not recommended to steam dumplings without a lid, as the steam is necessary to cook the dumplings thoroughly. Without a lid, the steam will escape and the dumplings may not cook evenly.

B. Can you use a rice cooker to steam dumplings?

Yes, you can use a rice cooker to steam dumplings. Simply fill the rice cooker with water, place a steaming basket inside, and follow the instructions for steaming the dumplings using the plate or bowl method.

C. What if the dumplings are sticking to the plate or wok?

If the dumplings are sticking to the plate or wok, try greasing the surface with a little cooking oil or cooking spray before placing the dumplings. Additionally, ensure that the dumplings are not touching each other or the sides of the plate/bowl/wok to prevent sticking.

D. What if the dumplings are not cooked all the way through?

If the dumplings are not cooked all the way through, you can continue steaming them for an additional 1-2 minutes or until they are fully cooked. Alternatively, you can transfer them to a pan and pan-fry them for a few minutes until they are fully cooked and the wrapper is crispy.

How To Steam Dumplings Without Steamer: Conclusion

Steaming dumplings without a steamer basket are possible with a few simple methods. Using a pot and plate, a wok, or a microwave, you can steam dumplings easily at home.

Remember to choose a heat-resistant plate or bowl, use a steaming rack or plate with holes, and cover tightly with a lid or plastic wrap to trap the steam.

Ensure that the dumplings are cooked all the way through and not sticking to the plate or wok. With these tips and tricks on how to steam dumplings without steamer, you can enjoy delicious and authentic steamed dumplings without the need for a steamer basket.