How to Steam Vegetables in an Electric Steamer

by Bridget Kelly

Items you will need

  • Electric steamer
  • Vegetables
  • Water or other liquid

For years we have been told that raw vegetables are healthier than those that are cooked. However, according to the results of an Italian study, published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, cooking vegetables may actually increase the release of more nutrients. In fact, the study found that steaming broccoli aided in the release of more glucosinolates, the cancer-fighting organic compound that broccoli is loaded with. Get the benefits of steamed vegetables by preparing them yourself in an electric steamer.

Step 1

Measure the amount of liquid required, according to the electric steamer instruction booklet, and pour it into the pot. Most vegetables require at least a quarter of a cup of liquid. Alternatives to water include broth, soy sauce and juice. Adding herbs and spices to the water lends flavor to the vegetables.

Step 2

Place the steaming tray into the cooker and load it with the vegetables. Cover the cooker with the lid.

Step 3

Press the "cook" switch into the down position. Do not remove the lid during cooking. When the cooker automatically switches into the "warm" mode, the cooking is complete.

Step 4

Remove the vegetables, carefully, and immediately to avoid overcooking.

Tips

  • Add an additional 1/4 cup of liquid when steaming frozen vegetables.

About the Author

Based in the American Southwest, Bridget Kelly has been writing about gardening and real estate since 2005. Her articles have appeared at Trulia.com, SFGate.com, GardenGuides.com, RE/MAX.com, MarketLeader.com, RealEstate.com, USAToday.com and in "Chicago Agent" magazine, to name a few. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in English with a concentration in creative writing.