How To Steam Potatoes Without Steamer

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Introduction

Steamed potatoes are a versatile and healthy option for cooking potatoes. They retain more of their nutrients compared to boiling and provide a soft and fluffy texture that is perfect for various dishes. While many people use a steamer to cook potatoes, not everyone has this kitchen tool readily available. But fear not, as there are several alternative methods you can use to steam potatoes without a steamer.

In this article, we will explore four different methods that you can try to steam potatoes even if you don’t have a steamer. Whether you have a colander, microwave, saucepan, or slow cooker, you can use these techniques to achieve perfectly steamed potatoes in no time.

So, let’s dive into the details of each method and discover how you can steam potatoes without a steamer.

Method 1: Using a Colander or Sieve

If you have a colander or sieve in your kitchen, you can easily use it to steam potatoes. Here’s how:

1. Start by washing your potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris.
2. Cut the potatoes into evenly sized pieces to ensure they cook evenly.
3. Fill a large pot with about an inch of water and place it on the stove over medium heat.
4. Once the water starts simmering, place the colander or sieve on top of the pot, ensuring it doesn’t touch the water.
5. Put the potato pieces into the colander or sieve, making sure they are spread out evenly.
6. Cover the pot with a lid or aluminum foil to trap the steam.
7. Allow the potatoes to steam for 15-20 minutes or until they are fork-tender.
8. Once cooked, carefully remove the colander or sieve from the pot using oven mitts or kitchen tongs.

Now your steamed potatoes are ready to be used in your favorite recipes or enjoyed as a delicious side dish!

This method works well because the steam generated from the simmering water in the pot rises and cooks the potatoes without submerging them in water. The colander or sieve acts as a platform to elevate the potatoes and allow the steam to circulate and cook them evenly.

Method 2: Using a Microwave

If you’re looking for a quick and convenient way to steam potatoes, using a microwave is a great option. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Wash the potatoes thoroughly and poke a few holes in each potato using a fork or knife.
2. Place the potatoes on a microwave-safe plate, making sure to space them out evenly.
3. Add a tablespoon of water to the plate. This will create steam to cook the potatoes.
4. Cover the potatoes with a microwave-safe cover or use microwave-safe plastic wrap to create a steam seal.
5. Microwave the potatoes on high for about 5 minutes. Check the potatoes for doneness by inserting a fork into the center. If they are not yet tender, continue microwaving in 1-minute increments until they are fully cooked.
6. Once the potatoes are soft and tender, carefully remove them from the microwave using oven mitts or kitchen tongs.

After steaming in the microwave, your potatoes will be ready to enjoy. Remember to let them cool for a few minutes before peeling or slicing them, as they will be hot.

Using the microwave to steam potatoes is a time-saving technique that eliminates the need for additional pots and pans. The steam created within the microwave cooks the potatoes to perfection, resulting in soft and fluffy spuds.

Method 3: Using a Saucepan and Plate

If you have a saucepan and a heatproof plate, you can easily steam potatoes without a steamer. Follow these steps:

1. Thoroughly wash the potatoes and cut them into desired sizes.
2. Add about an inch of water to the saucepan and place it on the stove over medium heat.
3. Place the cut potatoes in a heatproof plate, ensuring they are evenly spread out.
4. Once the water in the saucepan comes to a simmer, carefully place the plate with the potatoes on top of the saucepan.
5. Cover the saucepan with a lid or aluminum foil to trap the steam.
6. Allow the potatoes to steam for approximately 15-20 minutes or until they are fork-tender.
7. Once the potatoes are cooked, carefully remove the plate from the saucepan using oven mitts or kitchen tongs.

Now you have perfectly steamed potatoes ready to be used in any recipe or enjoyed on their own. This method mimics the function of a steamer by using the steam generated in the saucepan to cook the potatoes on the plate.

Make sure to handle the plate with caution as it can be hot after steaming. Allow the potatoes to cool for a few minutes before serving.

You can steam potatoes without a steamer by placing them in a microwave-safe bowl with a small amount of water, covering with a microwave-safe plate, and microwaving on high for 5-7 minutes until tender. Be careful when removing the plate as steam will escape.

Method 4: Using a Slow Cooker

If you own a slow cooker, you can take advantage of its low and steady heat to steam potatoes effortlessly. Here’s how:

1. Wash the potatoes thoroughly and cut them into desired sizes.
2. Add a cup of water to the slow cooker.
3. Place the cut potatoes into a heatproof bowl or a steam basket and place it inside the slow cooker.
4. Cover the slow cooker with the lid.
5. Set the slow cooker to the low heat setting and let the potatoes steam for about 4-6 hours, depending on the size of the potatoes.
6. Check the potatoes for doneness by inserting a fork into them. They should be soft and easily pierced.
7. Once the potatoes are fully cooked, carefully remove the bowl or steam basket from the slow cooker using oven mitts or kitchen tongs.

After steaming in the slow cooker, your potatoes will have a tender and creamy texture. This method is perfect if you want to set it and forget it, as the slow cooker does all the work for you.

Remember to exercise caution when handling the hot bowl or steam basket. Allow the potatoes to cool for a few minutes before serving or using them in your desired recipe.

Tips for Steaming Potatoes without a Steamer

Steaming potatoes without a steamer may require a bit of improvisation, but with these helpful tips, you’ll be able to achieve fantastic results:

1. Choose the right potatoes: Select potatoes that are suitable for steaming, such as Yukon Gold or Russets. These varieties have a high starch content and are ideal for achieving a fluffy texture.
2. Uniformly cut the potatoes: To ensure even cooking, try to cut the potatoes into uniform sizes. This will help prevent some pieces from overcooking while others remain undercooked.
3. Add flavor to the steam: Infuse additional flavor into your steamed potatoes by adding herbs, spices, garlic, or lemon juice to the water or directly to the potatoes while they steam.
4. Use a seal: When using methods like the microwave or saucepan with a plate, create a steam seal by covering the dish tightly with a lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap. This will help trap the steam and cook the potatoes more efficiently.
5. Check for doneness: To avoid over or undercooking the potatoes, periodically check their doneness by inserting a fork or toothpick into a few pieces. They should be tender and easily pierced.
6. Allow for cooling time: After steaming, let the potatoes cool for a few minutes before handling or using them in recipes. This will prevent any burns and allow the potatoes to firm up slightly.
7. Experiment with seasoning: Steamed potatoes are a versatile side dish that can be seasoned in various ways. Try adding salt, pepper, herbs, or even a drizzle of olive oil or melted butter to enhance their flavor.

With these tips in mind, you can confidently steam potatoes without a steamer and still achieve fantastic results. Get creative with your seasoning and enjoy the delicious and nutritious benefits of steamed potatoes in your favorite dishes!

Conclusion

Steaming potatoes without a steamer is not only possible but also quite easy and convenient with the right techniques. Whether you use a colander, microwave, saucepan, or slow cooker, you can achieve perfectly steamed potatoes that are fluffy, tender, and packed with flavor.

Using a colander or sieve allows the steam from simmering water to cook the potatoes without submerging them in liquid. The microwave method is quick and efficient, using steam created by adding a small amount of water to the potatoes. Steaming with a saucepan and plate mimics the function of a steamer by elevating the potatoes and using the steam generated below. And finally, the slow cooker method provides a hands-off approach with low and steady heat.

Remember to choose the right potatoes, cut them into uniform sizes, and flavor them to your liking. Check for doneness using a fork and allow the potatoes to cool slightly before handling. With these tips in mind, you can easily master the art of steaming potatoes without a steamer.

So, the next time you’re craving delicious steamed potatoes for a meal or a side dish, don’t worry if you don’t have a steamer on hand. Just follow one of these methods and enjoy the amazing results. Happy cooking!