Tips from the chef

Today it's "trendy" to strive to lose excess weight and delay aging in order to maintain health and a youthful appearance. One effective way to win this battle is by eating food prepared with steam. Much has been said about the benefits of steamed meals, yet many questions remain. Some believe that steaming is too tedious, others think such food lacks flavor. However, it’s no secret that steamed food is the most diet-friendly. So, how tasty, quick, practical, and healthy is cooking food this way?

Benefits of Steamed Food

Food retains almost all vitamins and minerals, as well as its natural color and shape after steaming. The result is beautiful, aromatic, and flavorful dishes — especially when prepared properly. Isn’t the ability to cook correctly essential for any dish, whether steamed, sautéed, or microwaved?

Why is steamed food considered fully diet-friendly and low in fats? Because it doesn't require additional oil or butter. Water-soluble vitamins (C, A) and minerals are preserved at maximum levels in steamed food.

The calorie content is significantly lower due to the absence of high-calorie oils, which also produce harmful carcinogens during frying.

Steamed meals are an excellent option for those who want to lose weight without exhausting workouts. Eating steamed food daily helps reduce hunger while promoting weight loss.

Taste of Steamed Food

This is probably the main question on everyone’s mind: does steamed food actually taste good? Surprisingly, steamed dishes are often more juicy than traditionally cooked ones. They preserve the freshness of ingredients and original flavors. Most people adapt to this taste quickly.

Cooking Speed of Steamed Food

Thanks to modern kitchen appliances like microwave ovens or steam cookers, preparing healthy and delicious meals takes very little time.

You can cook multiple ingredients at once in a steamer or microwave without worrying about burning them. This saves time and prevents flavors from mixing.

The simplest way to prepare steamed food is using a pot with water and placing a sieve or special steaming basket on top, then tightly covering it with a lid. It’s convenient for small portions. Today, modern electric steamers are widely available, allowing you to prepare great meals quickly and efficiently. Just place the ingredients into the bowl, add water, and set the time.

Practicality of Steamed Cooking

Steamed cooking doesn’t require constant attention. There's no need to constantly stir or flip — the food cooks evenly and nothing burns. No oil is needed during steaming, and unlike frying, steam does not leave greasy residue on kitchen equipment or furniture.

Features of Steamed Cooking

It is not recommended to cut products too finely before steaming, as this may result in a mushy, unappetizing texture. To ensure even steaming and shorter cooking times, do not overcrowd the pot.

There is a certain group of foods that should not be steamed — overripe or slightly spoiled fruits and vegetables. These are better suited for traditional boiling. For steaming, raw, fresh, firm ingredients must be used to avoid ending up with bland, shapeless veggies and fruits.

Choosing a Steamer

A good electric steamer costs around $60–$80. Traditional pot-style steamers are also very convenient and practical — they preserve nutrients just as well as their electric counterparts.

What can be cooked in a steamer? Many things — meatballs, vegetables, fish, potatoes. In the vegetable tray, you get a very nutritious vegetable broth as a by-product.

Who Should Eat Steamed Food?

You could say steamed food is suitable for everyone — it's the ideal choice for healthy eating, especially in a time when fashion trends encourage us to avoid strict diets while still looking toned and slim. Here, steamed meals offer the best alternative. Add just a minimum amount of physical activity, and your body will stay fit and slender — helping you maintain your own style and attractive look at any age.

Steamed food is particularly beneficial for people with gastrointestinal issues. It is the optimal diet for ulcers of the stomach and duodenum, gastritis, and cardiovascular conditions — where reducing cholesterol and avoiding fatty or spicy dishes is necessary.