How do I use a pan steamer please?

narabanekeater

Im about to use my christmas present for DD and DS for the 1st time. Its a silver pan steamer from Ikea.
The base looks like a sauspan then the 2 other pans that slot in have holes in it.
Theres no instructions with it:o and I havent a clue. Im guessing its water in the bottom then veggies in the other 2 layers but am I right?
Thanks in advance Axx

themull1

Yes, or you can cook potatoes or turnip/swede in the bottom, in the water and steam your other veg above, maybe first layer, carrots/cabbage, and top layer veg that takes a bit less to cook, ie sprouts/broccoli.

[Deleted User]

Yes, pop water in the bottom and then stack the two other sections on top and then pop the lid on. I have had one of these pans for years and use it a lot. When filling put the 'harder' vegetables in the first section nearest the water (cauliflower, carrots etc) and the quicker to cook in the top section (green beans etc).

I will also cook cabbage in the water below as this does not take too long to cook. If I am making gravy too (from granuals) I will also use the water from the bottom too after I have finished the cooking.

Bronnie

These are so useful!

Handy for cooking leftover little bits of veg from the fridge with the main veg too, without having to use another pan for a tiddly amount.

You don't need to start everything off at the same time either. I often put pots in water in the bottom with carrot and swede in the second layer...take about the same time. Then later add green veg to top layer so it's not overcooked.

I've steamed salmon fillets in the middle layer too, just oil the base of the steamer slightly first, spuds with water at the bottom and green veg in the top.

Just use it regularly, you'll work out which way's best for what you like!

Don't forget to always use the lid!!

Sublime_2

I always try to stem veg, rather than boil if possible. Much healthier. I usually use the bottom though for boiling potatoes.

valk_scot

Yes. You can cook something in the bottom layer of course, such as another vegetable that needs to be boiled rather than steamed. Or make stock or soup, or a runny stew of some sort. Anything that won't boil dry.