-
Our content is meticulously curated through independent research, testing, reviews, and AI-driven recommendations, all designed to present you with the finest product choices. When you make a purchase through our links, it could result in us earning a commission.
The Best Bamboo Steamer Baskets of 2024
.
Bamboo steamer baskets are used in traditional Asian cuisines for steaming food like steamed buns, fish, rice noodles, and sticky rice. They consist of stacking baskets made from bamboo and typically have two to four layers. Each basket has slatted bottoms to allow steam to pass through and cook the food evenly. The bamboo absorbs excess moisture and prevents condensation from dripping onto the food, allowing the food to steam but not get soggy. Our favorite basket from our list of the best bamboo steamer baskets is the i-Playloft Bamboo Steamer Basket because it's crafted from sturdy, premium bamboo and has two layers that can simultaneously cook different dishes.
Our Top Picks For Bamboo Steamer Baskets
View all ContentsThe Best Bamboo Steamer Baskets
Best Overall
From cooking rice to steaming momos, this bamboo steamer basket is perfect for experimenting with a variety of Asian cuisines. Its two-tiered structure gives you the ability to cook multiple dishes at a time — cutting your cooking time in half! The top basket’s base features an open-weave design with gaps in between to allow unobstructed steam circulation and even heat distribution throughout.
This steamer also comes with a lid to trap steam and keep the food items warm for a long time. With thick, strong, and toxic-free bamboo construction, it is highly durable and can last for a long time. It comes with two chopsticks, 20 wax liners, and a sauce plate to improve your culinary skills. Thanks to easy cleaning and versatile application, this bamboo steamer basket is the best option overall.
Pros
- The lid handle ensures easy operation
- Light basket for hassle-free use
- The open-weave design allows even heat distribution
Cons
- Not budget friendly
Space-Saving
Featuring high-quality bamboo construction, this steamer basket is built to last for a long time, with no wear and tear. It is non-toxic and free from harmful materials, including BPAs and plastic, ensuring chemical-free cooking. The steamer also comes with two stackable baskets, so that you can cook more portions or different food items simultaneously. The top basket features an open weave design to allow appropriate steam circulation and even heat distribution.
This steamer’s lid comes with a tight mesh and has no gap between the weaves, which allows for the trapping of the steam and maintaining optimal temperature. It also speeds up the cooking process and allows you to serve food with no delay. On top of this, you will also get reusable cotton liners to prevent rice, quinoa, and other ingredients from slipping through the grooves.
Pros
- Cotton liners are washable
- A tight mesh lid prevents steam escape
- Multiple stackable tiers
Cons
- Flimsy cotton liners
Sleekest Design
This steamer basket is constructed from high-quality bamboo to last for a long time without forming splinters or damping. Its internal walls are water-resistant, and the lid features a dome shape to prevent condensation and the formation of water droplets. The top basket features a base with open grooves, allowing steam to circulate throughout and maintain optimal temperature. Thanks to the such unique construction, it delivers excellent performance and cooks food faster.
Both stackable baskets measure 10 inches in diameter, which is compatible with most cooking pots. Their light construction allows you to maneuver them easily around your kitchen. Whether you want to cook steamed rice or momos, all food items will be cooked to perfection without losing nutrients or taste.
Pros
- Does not form water droplets
- Food remains warm for a long
- Easier to store in the kitchen
Cons
- Basket depth is less
Most Authentic Design
Featuring a sleek design and spacious cooking chambers, you can easily prepare multiple portions or varied food items with this bamboo steamer basket. As it has a compact structure, you can even use them as serving trays. Its thick bamboo construction is tested to stand lots of wear and tear, with no visible signs of damage. It does not contain any toxic material like BPA or plastic, ensuring healthy food for everyone.
The top basket features a grooved base with openings to facilitate heat distribution and faster cooking. On top of this, its lid has a dome-shaped structure to give more room for better steam circulation. For cleaning, you need warm water and liquid soap.
Pros
- Strong lid handle for easy lifting
- Can be used as serving trays
- 100% natural and non-toxic bamboo construction
Cons
- Does not come with cotton liners
Most Compact
With this affordable bamboo steamer basket, you can easily explore Asian cuisines and improve your culinary skills. It features excellent craftsmanship, owing to 100% natural bamboo construction with tightly woven mesh and thicker walls. As it sports a smooth and clean surface, you won’t find the wood forming splinters or cracks with time. It is so light that lifting it out of the cooking pot won’t be a hassle anymore.
This stackable steamer basket is designed to facilitate steam circulation and even heat distribution. So, the temperature is maintained at an optimal level, and the food will stay warm for a long time. Its lid features a tightly woven mesh to trap the steam. On top of this, you will get two chopsticks and 50 liners for hassle-free cooking.
Pros
- Small enough to fit any kitchen cabinet
- Thick bamboo walls last for a long
- Cooks food evenly in less time
Cons
- Not ideal for a large family
The Best Bamboo Steamer Basket Buying Guide
As you have learned, there are tons of great bamboo steamer baskets out on the market right now. If you want to add this valuable tool to your kitchen arsenal, you should keep on reading. Below, we are going to discuss what factors you should take into account when you are selecting the perfect steamer for you. We will discuss factors such as size, material, and all the other small details you may overlook. Take a look at our carefully researched buying guide to learn all you need and more!
Key Factors To Keep in Mind
Size
Most bamboo steamer baskets have a diameter of 10 inches. It is standard and perfect for cooking multiple portions for a medium to large-sized family. Plus, they are typically compatible with most cooking pots. But if you do not need such a large steamer, go for an 8-inch basket, which is ideal for a small family or a single-person household.
Material
While bamboo is used to manufacture the bamboo steamer baskets, you must ensure it is 100% organic or natural. It should not contain any additive, from plastic to BPA. You should also check if the chosen bamboo steamer basket is built to last for a long time with no splinter formation or weakening of bamboo walls and base.
Open weave base
In a two-tiered bamboo steamer, the top basket will not be in direct contact with heat. Instead, the steamer will come with an open woven design that will help circulate the hot steam throughout the baskets. This ensures unobstructed steam circulation through the grooves and even heat distribution. Food will get prepared faster with no over or under-cooking. Plus, it also keeps the food items warm until you are ready to eat.
Lid
The bamboo steamer baskets come with a dome-shaped lid to allow better steam circulation in the top tray. You must ensure its mesh is tightly woven to prevent the steam from escaping and disrupting the temperature balance. It should have a strong handle at the top for easy removal.
Nonstick
A few bamboo steamer baskets feature nonstick internal walls. So, no water droplets will form on the inner surface, making the food items soggy. Plus, it allows easy cleaning with no food particles stuck at the base or walls.
Accessories
Choose a bamboo steamer basket with chopsticks, sauce plate, and liners if you want a full accessory set for cooking and eating steamed Asian dishes. The liners are used over both baskets to prevent the food ingredients from sticking to the bamboo surface.
Price Range of Bamboo Steamer Baskets
While bamboo steamer baskets look the same, they come with different price rates. The cost ranges from $17.99 to $29.99, depending on a myriad of factors. For example:
- Larger bamboo steamer baskets are costlier than the smaller ones
- If your chosen bamboo steamer basket comes with water-resistant internal walls, its price is higher than others with regular material
- Bamboo steamer baskets made from 100% natural material with no BPA and plastic are also costlier
Tips for Using a Bamboo Steamer Basket
- Clean the bamboo steamer basket with a dry, soft cloth
- Place the liners on both baskets and ensure their bases are covered completely
- Now add all food ingredients according to your preference
- Stack the top basket properly on the lower one
- Place the lid and ensure it is sealed properly
- Keep the entire steamer in a cooking pot and then transfer it to the gas top
People Also Asked
How can I clean the bamboo steamer basket?
For cleaning the bamboo steamer basket, use warm water and gentle dishwashing liquid. Use a soft cloth and dip it in the soap solution. Scrub the baskets gently with the cloth to remove any food remnants. However, it is always best to follow the cleaning instructions that come with your basket.
What precautions should I exercise while using a bamboo steamer basket?
You must not place the bamboo steamer basket in direct heat contact or under the sun. Also, you should place the cloth liner first and then the food ingredients. By following these rules you will avoid any unnecessary injuries, and increase the longevity of your product.
How long will a bamboo steamer basket last?
The bamboo steamer baskets are quite strong and built to last for a long time. But the actual longevity will depend on your usage. For instance, keeping any sharp object in physical contact with the basket can cause scratches or splinters.
Can I cook soup in a bamboo steamer basket?
No, it is not advised to cook any liquid items in your bamboo steamer basket. You should only cook momos, steamed rice, vegetables, and other solid food ingredients.
