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.
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
