I used to think steaming was just for vegetables and maybe a piece of fish. Then I discovered you can make the most tender carrot cake right on the stovetop, a rich chocolate pudding, and even a fluffy sponge cake. I’ve gathered 17 steamed recipes that completely changed the way I cook, and I can’t wait for you to try them.
1. Steamed Chocolate Pudding
Let’s clarify: this is English style pudding, not the boxed stuff. It’s rich, dense, and unbelievably soft.
The ingredient list looks a little long at first glance, but don’t let that intimidate you. It’s all classic baking staples and spices you probably already have.
The result? Pure velvety chocolate bliss.
2. Steamed Rice
How did I almost skip rice? It’s the ultimate steamed staple.
Just rice and water, that’s it. That’s the whole deal.
But after it’s perfectly fluffy, I love to dress it up a bit. Sweet rice is my personal favorite, maybe with a little something extra stirred in.
3. Tamales
I hear you: tamales can be a labor of love. And yes, they do take time.
But I will argue forever that the final result is worth every single minute. And if you’re short on time but still craving them, this steamed tamales recipe is the one you need. It streamlines things without sacrificing flavor.
4. Steamed Clams in Garlic Butter
I was tempted to just say ‘same irresistible garlic butter situation’ here, but I’ll elaborate. These clams are as easy as the mussels, and that garlic butter sauce takes them over the top.
You get this perfect balance of garlic, butter, herbs, and deep savory umami. Honestly, even folks who claim they don’t do seafood will be reaching for seconds.
5. Steamed Carrot Cake
I know, I know, cakes belong in the oven, right? But trust me on this: this carrot cake never goes near one.
You steam it right on the stovetop, and it turns out incredibly soft and moist, with all that classic spiced carrot flavor I can’t get enough of. It’s the same cozy taste you love, just impossibly more tender.
6. Steamed Pears with Rock Sugar
If fall or winter always brings a scratchy throat and cough, tuck this recipe away. It’s sweet, fruity, and totally dessert worthy, but it’s also a traditional Chinese remedy for coughs.
You can boil or steam it; I’ll always pick the steamed version because it turns out so syrupy and soothing. It’s like a hug in a bowl.
7. Steamed Carrots
Raw carrots are tough, so they need a little more time in the steamer than other veggies. But here’s the thing: you don’t need to season them ahead, and your hands-on work is practically zero.
Pop them in the steamer basket, cover, and walk away. They come out tender and naturally sweet.
8. Steamed Mussels
If cooking seafood at home makes you nervous, let steamed mussels be your confidence booster. They’re shockingly easy and practically foolproof.
You build a quick base with white wine, garlic, chicken stock, shallots, and a few other aromatics, then throw in the mussels. That’s it. Fancy, but secretly simple.
9. Steamed Broccoli
I love steamed broccoli because it’s just so effortless. Fifteen minutes, broccoli and water, and you’re done.
Sure, you can toss in salt, pepper, or herbs, but it honestly doesn’t need a thing to be delicious. Steaming keeps all that bright, fresh flavor intact too, which is a huge bonus.
10. Steamed Spinach
Steamed spinach is my go-to when I need a quick, tasty side. It’s ready in just over 5 minutes.
A little butter, garlic, salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon is all it takes. And if anyone at your table gives spinach the side-eye, just up the garlic. Problem solved.
11. Steamed Cinnamon Apples
I don’t care if it’s a sweltering July afternoon; the moment I make steamed cinnamon apples, it’s instantly fall inside my kitchen. They’re sweet, aromatic, and absolutely yummy.
I adore eating them, but the way they make my whole house smell might be even better. It’s pure cozy magic.
12. Steamed Cabbage
Steamed cabbage needs a little more patience than spinach, about 20 minutes total, but it’s so worth it. I toss it with butter, garlic, salt, pepper, and then sprinkle dried parsley and red pepper flakes on top. It’s a simple side that’s genuinely appetizing, the kind you keep going back for.
13. Mediterranean Steamed Salmon
Imagine a juicy, flavorful dinner that comes together in half an hour flat. This Mediterranean steamed salmon delivers exactly that.
The fish steams up so tender and succulent, infused with lemon, garlic, white wine, and warm spices like coriander, cumin, and Aleppo pepper. It sits on a bed of parsley and comes with green and yellow onions, so you’re getting a full plate of veggies with zero extra effort. Weeknight magic, I’m telling you.
14. Steamed Potatoes
Potatoes taste incredible no matter what you do to them, but steaming baby Yukon potatoes is a total win. All you need are the spuds, some butter, salt, and whatever herbs you love most. They come out tender and ready to soak up all that buttery herb goodness.
15. Steamed Vegetables
Okay, the one you probably thought of first. I’ve got three ridiculously easy ways: the microwave, a steamer basket, or just the stovetop. Grab any veggies you have in the fridge, and you’re golden.
16. Chinese Steamed Sponge Cake
Sponge cake without an oven? Yes, it’s happening.
This Chinese steamed version uses just 10 ingredients: eggs, caster sugar, light brown sugar, salt, vanilla, baking soda, evaporated milk, flour, baking powder, and either canola or grapeseed oil. The cake comes out soft, moist, and wonderfully satisfying.
And you can whip it all up on your stovetop in under an hour. So impressive.
17. Steamed Asparagus with Butter and Garlic
If you think you don’t like steamed asparagus, I promise you haven’t had it done right. The secret is a glorious garlic butter sauce that makes everything sing.
A little lemon juice, salt, and pepper add brightness, but master that buttery garlic drizzle and you’ve won. It all just clicks.