How To Steam Sweet Potatoes In A Steamer

(Many of the links in this article redirect to a specific reviewed product. Your purchase of these products through affiliate links helps to generate commission for Storables.com, at no extra cost. Learn more)

Introduction

Steaming sweet potatoes is a fantastic way to cook them, as it not only helps to retain their nutrients but also enhances their natural flavors. Steamed sweet potatoes are delicious, versatile, and incredibly nutritious, making them a great addition to any meal or as a standalone dish. In this article, we will explore the benefits of steaming sweet potatoes, how to choose the right ones for steaming, how to prepare them, and a step-by-step guide on using a steamer to cook them to perfection.

Sweet potatoes are not only a delicious and satisfying food, but they also offer a wealth of health benefits. They are rich in dietary fiber, antioxidants, and essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, and manganese. Eating sweet potatoes can support digestion, promote heart health, boost the immune system, and contribute to healthy skin.

When it comes to cooking sweet potatoes, steaming is an ideal method as it helps to preserve their nutrients. Unlike boiling, steaming does not involve submerging the potatoes in water, ensuring that the water-soluble vitamins are not lost. Furthermore, steaming sweet potatoes helps to retain their natural sweetness and prevents them from becoming overly mushy or waterlogged.

Choosing the right sweet potatoes for steaming is essential to ensure the best results. Look for sweet potatoes that are firm, smooth-skinned, and free from blemishes or soft spots. Different varieties of sweet potatoes have slightly different flavors and textures, so feel free to experiment with different types to find your favorite.

Before steaming sweet potatoes, it’s important to properly prepare them. Start by scrubbing the skin to remove any dirt or debris. You can choose to peel the sweet potatoes if desired, but leaving the skin on can add extra texture and nutritional benefits. Cut the sweet potatoes into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.

A steamer is a versatile and convenient tool for cooking sweet potatoes. There are various types of steamers available, including stovetop steamers, electric steamers, and microwave steamers. Choose the one that suits your needs and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper usage.

In the next sections, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to steam sweet potatoes using a steamer. We’ll also share some helpful tips to ensure your sweet potatoes are perfectly steamed and ready to be enjoyed.

Benefits of Steaming Sweet Potatoes

Steaming sweet potatoes offers a multitude of benefits that make it a preferred cooking method for many. Not only does it help to retain the nutrients of the potatoes, but it also brings out their natural flavors and ensures a moist and tender texture. Let’s explore some of the key benefits of steaming sweet potatoes.

1. Retains Nutrients: Steaming is a gentle cooking method that helps to preserve the natural nutrients present in sweet potatoes. Unlike boiling, where nutrients leach into the water, steaming ensures that the vitamins and minerals remain intact. This makes steamed sweet potatoes a powerhouse of nutrition.
2. Enhances Flavor: Steaming sweet potatoes allows them to retain their natural sweetness and flavor. It brings out the earthy and slightly nutty taste of the potatoes, making them truly delightful to eat. This gentle cooking method enhances the natural flavors without overpowering them.
3. Improves Digestibility: Steaming makes sweet potatoes easier to digest compared to other cooking methods. It softens the fibers and breaks down complex sugars, making them more easily absorbed by the body. This can be beneficial for individuals with sensitive digestive systems or those who struggle with other cooking preparations.
4. Preserves Texture: Steaming sweet potatoes keeps them moist and tender. Unlike baking, where they can become dry or shriveled, steaming maintains the desired texture. The gentle and evenly distributed heat helps the potatoes to cook evenly, resulting in a soft and creamy interior.
5. Low-Calorie Option: Steaming sweet potatoes is a healthy and low-calorie cooking method. It doesn’t require the use of added fats or oils, making it a great option for those watching their calorie intake. This makes steamed sweet potatoes an excellent choice for weight management or as a part of a balanced diet.
6. Versatility in Cooking: Steamed sweet potatoes can be utilized in a variety of dishes. They can be pureed, mashed, roasted, or used as a base for soups and stews. Steamed sweet potato cubes can be added to salads, stir-fries, or used to make delicious sweet potato fries. The possibilities are endless!

Overall, steaming sweet potatoes is a fantastic cooking method that offers a range of benefits. From retaining nutrients to enhancing flavor, steamed sweet potatoes provide a nutritious and delicious addition to your meals. Now that we have explored the benefits of steaming sweet potatoes, let’s move on to the next section on choosing the right sweet potatoes for steaming.

Choosing the Right Sweet Potatoes for Steaming

Choosing the right sweet potatoes is crucial to ensure optimal results when steaming. The right selection will not only enhance the flavor and texture of the dish but also ensure that the sweet potatoes cook evenly. Here are some key factors to consider when choosing sweet potatoes for steaming:

1. Texture: Look for sweet potatoes that have a firm texture. Avoid those with soft spots or bruises, as they indicate that the potatoes are overripe or past their prime. Firm sweet potatoes will hold their shape better during the steaming process.
2. Size and Shape: Opt for sweet potatoes that are relatively uniform in size. This will ensure that they cook evenly and at the same pace. Additionally, choose sweet potatoes with a shape that is conducive to slicing or cubing, depending on your desired cooking method or recipe.
3. Skin Quality: The skin of a sweet potato can give you valuable information about its quality. Look for sweet potatoes with smooth, blemish-free skins. Avoid those with excessive wrinkling or discoloration, as they may indicate signs of spoilage.
4. Variety: There are various types of sweet potatoes available, each with its own unique flavor profile and texture. The most common varieties include orange-fleshed sweet potatoes, which are sweet and moist, and white-fleshed sweet potatoes, which have a milder flavor. Feel free to experiment with different varieties to find your preferred taste and texture.
5. Organic vs. Conventional: When it comes to choosing between organic and conventional sweet potatoes, it is a matter of personal preference and availability. Organic sweet potatoes are grown without the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, making them a potentially healthier choice. However, conventional sweet potatoes that have been properly washed and peeled can also be a safe and nutritious option.

Consider these factors when selecting sweet potatoes for steaming to ensure the best possible outcome. Remember to always check the quality of the sweet potatoes before purchasing them, choosing those that are firm, have smooth skin, and are free from any signs of damage or spoilage. Now that you know how to choose the right sweet potatoes, let’s move on to the next section on preparing them for steaming.

Preparing the Sweet Potatoes for Steaming

Properly preparing sweet potatoes before steaming is essential for achieving the best results. Whether you choose to peel them or keep the skin on, there are a few steps you should follow to ensure that your sweet potatoes are ready for the steaming process. Here’s how to prepare sweet potatoes for steaming:

1. Cleaning: Start by giving the sweet potatoes a thorough wash under cold running water. Use a vegetable brush to scrub off any dirt or debris from the skin. This step is important, especially if you plan to keep the skin on, as it helps to remove any impurities.
2. Peeling (optional): If you prefer to have the sweet potatoes without the skin, you can choose to peel them at this point. Use a vegetable peeler to carefully remove the skin from the sweet potatoes. Alternatively, you can leave the skin on, as it adds a pleasant texture and additional nutrients.
3. Cutting: Once the sweet potatoes are clean and peeled (if desired), you need to cut them into uniform pieces. This ensures that they cook evenly during the steaming process. You can slice them into rounds, cut them into cubes, or create any other shape that suits your preference and recipe requirements.
4. Even Sizing: When cutting the sweet potatoes, try to make the pieces as even in size as possible. This helps to ensure that all the sweet potato pieces cook at the same rate. Uniform sizing also helps to achieve a consistent texture throughout the dish.
5. Rinsing (optional): Some people prefer to rinse the cut sweet potatoes under cold water after they have been sliced or cubed. This step can help to remove any excess starch and prevent them from sticking together. However, it is not necessary and can be skipped if desired.

By following these simple steps, you can adequately prepare sweet potatoes for the steaming process. Cleaning, optional peeling, cutting into uniform pieces, and rinsing (if desired) are crucial to achieve even cooking and ensure the best texture and flavor. Now that your sweet potatoes are prepared, it’s time to move on to the next section on using a steamer to cook them.

Using a Steamer to Cook Sweet Potatoes

A steamer is a versatile and convenient tool for cooking sweet potatoes. It allows you to take advantage of the gentle heat and moisture to achieve perfectly steamed sweet potatoes. Here’s a step-by-step guide on using a steamer to cook sweet potatoes:

1. Set Up the Steamer: Start by setting up your steamer according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Whether you’re using a stovetop steamer, an electric steamer, or a microwave steamer, ensure that it is clean and in proper working condition.
2. Add Water: Fill the steamer’s water reservoir or the bottom part of the steamer with an appropriate amount of water. The exact amount may vary depending on the size and type of steamer you are using. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for guidance.
3. Heat the Water: Place the steamer over high heat if using a stovetop steamer. If using an electric steamer, turn it on and select the appropriate setting. For a microwave steamer, place it in the microwave and follow the recommended cooking time.
4. Add the Sweet Potatoes: Once the water is heated and the steamer is ready, carefully add the prepared sweet potatoes to the steamer basket or tray. Arrange them in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. This allows for even cooking.
5. Cover and Steam: Place the lid securely on the steamer to create a tight seal. This helps to trap the steam and ensure that the sweet potatoes cook properly. Steaming times may vary depending on the size and thickness of the sweet potato pieces. Generally, it takes around 10 to 15 minutes for sliced or cubed sweet potatoes to steam until they are tender.
6. Check for Doneness: After the suggested cooking time, check the sweet potatoes for doneness. Insert a fork or a knife into the thickest piece to ensure that it goes through smoothly without any resistance. If they are still firm, continue steaming for a few more minutes until they reach the desired tenderness.
7. Remove and Serve: Once the sweet potatoes are perfectly steamed, carefully use oven mitts or a heat-resistant utensil to remove the steamer basket or tray from the steamer. Transfer the sweet potatoes to a serving dish and let them cool slightly before serving.

By following these steps, you can confidently use a steamer to cook sweet potatoes to perfection. Remember to adjust the steaming time based on the size and thickness of the sweet potato pieces and check for doneness before removing them from the steamer. Now that you know how to steam sweet potatoes using a steamer, let’s move on to some helpful tips for achieving perfectly steamed sweet potatoes.

To steam sweet potatoes in a steamer, make sure to cut them into evenly sized pieces to ensure even cooking. This will help them cook more quickly and evenly, resulting in a better texture.

Steaming Sweet Potatoes: Step-by-Step Guide

Steaming sweet potatoes is a simple and effective way to cook them to perfection. By following this step-by-step guide, you’ll be able to steam sweet potatoes easily and achieve a delicious and nutritious result.

1. Prepare the sweet potatoes: Start by cleaning the sweet potatoes under cold running water. If desired, peel them using a vegetable peeler. Cut the sweet potatoes into uniform pieces, such as slices or cubes, for even cooking.
2. Set up your steamer: Depending on the type of steamer you have, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to set it up. This may involve filling the water reservoir or bottom part of the steamer with water.
3. Heat the water: Place the steamer over high heat on the stovetop, or turn on the electric steamer. For a microwave steamer, place it in the microwave and set the cooking time according to the recommended guidelines.
4. Add the sweet potatoes: Once the water is heated, carefully place the prepared sweet potatoes in the steamer basket or tray. Make sure they are arranged in a single layer and not overcrowded for even steaming.
5. Cover and steam: Place the lid on the steamer to create a tight seal. Steam the sweet potatoes for approximately 10 to 15 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork or knife. Adjust the steaming time as needed, depending on the size and thickness of the sweet potato pieces.
6. Check for doneness: After the suggested cooking time, check the sweet potatoes for doneness. Make sure they are soft and cooked through. If necessary, steam them for a bit longer until they reach the desired tenderness.
7. Remove and enjoy: Once the sweet potatoes are fully steamed, use oven mitts or a heat-resistant utensil to carefully remove the steamer basket or tray from the steamer. Transfer the hot sweet potatoes to a serving dish and let them cool slightly before serving.

By following this step-by-step guide, you can easily steam sweet potatoes and enjoy their natural flavors and nutritional benefits. Remember to adjust the steaming time based on the size and thickness of the sweet potato pieces, and check for doneness before removing them from the steamer. Now that you know the steps for steaming sweet potatoes, let’s move on to some helpful tips to ensure perfectly steamed sweet potatoes.

Tips for Perfectly Steamed Sweet Potatoes

To achieve perfectly steamed sweet potatoes, consider applying these helpful tips that will enhance the flavor, texture, and overall results:

1. Uniform Size: Cut the sweet potatoes into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. This will result in all the sweet potato pieces reaching the desired tenderness at the same time.
2. Proper Placement: Arrange the sweet potato pieces in a single layer in the steamer basket or tray, ensuring they are not overcrowded. This allows for proper steam circulation and promotes even cooking.
3. Preheating the Steamer: If possible, preheat the steamer before adding the sweet potatoes. This can help speed up the cooking process and ensure that the sweet potatoes cook evenly.
4. Seasoning: Consider adding some seasonings to the sweet potatoes for added flavor. You can sprinkle them with salt, pepper, or your favorite herbs and spices. Alternatively, you can opt to season them after steaming, according to the recipe you’re following.
5. Timing: Keep an eye on the steaming time and avoid overcooking the sweet potatoes. Overcooking can lead to mushy and overly soft sweet potatoes. Test for doneness by inserting a fork or knife into the thickest piece; it should go through easily without resistance.
6. Retaining Nutrients: To retain maximum nutrients, avoid peeling the sweet potatoes and steam them with the skin on. The skin also adds great texture and flavor to the finished dish.
7. Steaming Liquid: If you want to infuse additional flavors into the sweet potatoes, try using flavored liquids in the steamer. You can use vegetable broth, citrus juice, or even coconut milk to enhance the taste.
8. Steaming Time Variations: Adjust the steaming time based on the size and thickness of the sweet potato pieces. Thicker and larger pieces will require a longer steaming time, while thinner and smaller ones may cook more quickly.
9. Serving Temperature: Consider serving the sweet potatoes immediately after steaming or keep them warm until ready to serve. Sweet potatoes are best enjoyed while still hot or warm.
10. Experiment with Flavors: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs, spices, or sauces to enhance the flavor of the steamed sweet potatoes. From cinnamon and nutmeg to garlic and rosemary, there are countless flavor combinations to try.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your sweet potatoes are perfectly steamed, flavorful, and nutritious. Remember to adjust the steaming time as needed, and feel free to get creative with seasonings and flavors. Enjoy your perfectly steamed sweet potatoes in various recipes or as a delightful side dish. Now let’s move on to the final section and explore how to serve and enjoy steamed sweet potatoes.

Serving and Enjoying Steamed Sweet Potatoes

Once you have perfectly steamed sweet potatoes, it’s time to serve and enjoy them in a variety of delicious ways. Here are some suggestions for serving and enjoying steamed sweet potatoes:

1. Simple and Plain: Steamed sweet potatoes can be enjoyed on their own, as they are naturally sweet and flavorful. Serve them plain or with a sprinkle of salt for a simple and satisfying snack.
2. Mashed or Pureed: Transform steamed sweet potatoes into a creamy and velvety side dish by mashing or pureeing them. Add a splash of milk, a pat of butter, or a drizzle of maple syrup for extra richness and flavor.
3. Roasted: Use steamed sweet potatoes as a base for roasted vegetable medleys. Toss them with other vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and red onions, season with spices, and roast in the oven until golden and tender.
4. Soups and Stews: Puree steamed sweet potatoes and use them as a thickening and flavor-enhancing ingredient in soups and stews. They add a subtle sweetness and velvety texture to the dish.
5. Salads: Add steamed sweet potato cubes to salads for a nutritious and hearty boost. Their soft and creamy texture pairs well with crunchy greens and other vegetables. Top with a tangy dressing for a delightful contrast.
6. Casserole: Layer steamed sweet potato slices in a casserole dish and top with a mixture of nuts, breadcrumbs, and seasonings. Bake until golden and crispy for a delicious side dish or a vegetarian main course.
7. Stir-Fries: Toss steamed sweet potato cubes into stir-fries for added color, texture, and sweetness. They absorb the flavors of the sauce and contribute to a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
8. Sweet Potato Fries: Cut steamed sweet potatoes into thin strips and bake them in the oven until crispy. Serve as a healthy and flavorful alternative to traditional french fries.
9. Baked Goods: Incorporate steamed sweet potatoes into baked goods like muffins, bread, or cakes. They add moisture, natural sweetness, and a vibrant color to your favorite recipes.
10. Sweet Treats: Mash steamed sweet potatoes and use them as a base for desserts like pies, tarts, or even sweet potato pudding. The natural sweetness and creamy texture lend themselves well to a variety of indulgent treats.

With these serving suggestions, you can explore a wide range of culinary possibilities using steamed sweet potatoes. From simple snacks and sides to more elaborate dishes and desserts, there are endless ways to enjoy the natural sweetness and flavor of steamed sweet potatoes. Get creative, experiment with different flavors, and savor their nutritious goodness. Now it’s time to start steaming sweet potatoes and discovering your own favorite recipes. Happy cooking!

Remember to enjoy your delicious creations in moderation and consider any dietary restrictions or preferences you may have.

Note: Always refer to specific recipes for cooking times and ingredient measurements when preparing dishes with steamed sweet potatoes.

Conclusion

Steaming sweet potatoes is a wonderful cooking method that preserves their nutritional value, enhances their natural flavors, and ensures a moist and tender texture. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can easily steam sweet potatoes to perfection and enjoy their delicious and nutritious benefits in various dishes.

We discussed the benefits of steaming sweet potatoes, including retaining nutrients, enhancing flavor, improving digestibility, preserving texture, and providing a low-calorie cooking option. Steamed sweet potatoes are not only a tasty addition to your meals but also a powerhouse of vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber.

Choosing the right sweet potatoes for steaming is important for optimal results. Consider factors like texture, size and shape, skin quality, variety, and organic vs. conventional options when selecting your sweet potatoes.

Properly preparing sweet potatoes before steaming involves cleaning, optional peeling, and cutting into uniform pieces. The key is to ensure even cooking and enhance the overall taste and texture of the steamed sweet potatoes.

Using a steamer to cook sweet potatoes is both convenient and effective. Whether it’s a stovetop steamer, electric steamer, or microwave steamer, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to set it up and achieve perfectly steamed sweet potatoes.

To ensure the best results, we provided helpful tips such as cutting the sweet potatoes into uniform sizes, proper placement in the steamer, seasoning options, checking for doneness, and serving at the proper temperature.

Once the sweet potatoes are perfectly steamed, there are countless ways to enjoy them. From serving them plain, mashed, or roasted to incorporating them into soups, salads, casseroles, and baked goods, steamed sweet potatoes are a versatile ingredient that can be used in savory and sweet dishes alike.

In conclusion, steaming sweet potatoes is a fantastic cooking method that allows you to savor their natural flavors and reap the nutritional benefits they offer. With these guidelines, tips, and recipe ideas, you can confidently include steamed sweet potatoes as a delicious and healthy addition to your culinary repertoire. So, start steaming, get creative in the kitchen, and enjoy the versatile and nutritious world of steamed sweet potatoes!