Better weather is finally here, and you need more nutritious meals that will keep you feeling full all day long. If you’re looking for quick weeknight sides or even a few lighter dessert ideas, steamed dishes are a simple way to feed your family fast. After all, you don’t need fancy equipment to steam seafood or vegetables in your kitchen. Get started with these recipes and cooking methods.
Steamed Lemon Soufflé Cakes
A cross between a cake and a soufflé, this steamed dessert uses lemongrass as a secret ingredient. A serving of fresh berries makes for a naturally sweet garnish.
Chinese Steamed Eggplant
The best chefs know that steaming eggplants is one of the most delicious ways to cook this nutritious veggie. This is because steamed eggplants will become silky soft and will have a tender, creamy texture that will taste like a restaurant-worthy dish every time.
Related: The Best Ways to Shop, Prepare and Cook Chinese Greens
Steamed BBQ Beef Buns
Don’t get enough of char siu bao (steamed buns) at dim sum? Prepare them at home for a quick and portable snack. Anna Olson gives you a basic recipe to prepare the dough with a nontraditional filling of ground beef, or try a more standard offering with Napa cabbage, shiitake mushrooms and pork.
Steamed Clams with Spicy Garlic Bread
Inexpensive and delicious, clams make an easy weeknight dinner. Paired with spicy garlic bread, you’ll have a seafood-worthy feast ready in no time. Not a fan of spice? Ina Garten’s outrageous garlic bread will also pair really well with this dish.
Steamed Rice
With the help of an Instant Pot, this recipe guarantees a perfect pot of rice every time.
Related: The Best Hakka Chicken Fried Rice
Blackberry Steamed Puddings
Steamed desserts may not be on your family’s radar, but after you bring these fragrant puddings to the table, they’ll be an unforgettable part of your rotation. Blackberries add a sweet-tart flavour to the mix, while orange buttermilk sauce keep things creamy. For another make-ahead dessert option, this healthier banana pudding is also a family favourite.
Steamed Green Beans with Shallots
Sometimes, the basics are best. Simple green beans, steamed until tender-crisp and tossed with red-wine vinaigrette, are topped with chopped shallots in Valerie Bertinelli’s home-style recipe with a classic French influence.
Related: Green Bean Oven Fries
Chinese Ginger-Soy Sea Bass
This very traditional Chinese dish couldn’t be easier to make, and it takes under 20 minutes to cook! Pair with bok choy or Chinese broccoli sautéed with minced ginger and garlic, and steamed white rice for a super satisfying dinner.