There are many different techniques used in Chinese cooking. Steaming is one of the techniques that has been around for thousands of years. Steam cooking is done using a steamer, which allows only hot steam to cook the food. This technique has many benefits, which may be why it is still popular today. Here are the main benefits of cooking with steam:

1. Fat Free/ Low Fat Cooking
   Using just hot steam to cook foods means that no added oils or fats are needed. The steam itself does the cooking so that the food is simply left in it’s own juices.



2. Foods maintain their Nutrients
   Since the food does not touch the boiling water there are hardly any nutrients lost. This is particularly important for vegetables. Many other cooking techniques allow the vitamins and minerals to escape while steaming keeps them intact so that the food is more nutrient dense. This also keeps in the natural flavors of the food.



3. Saves Energy
   Steaming saves energy since it allows a little portion of food, or larger portions of food to be cooked at the same time over the same heat source. Large portions of food are cooked in stackable steamers, which allows the steam to rise cooking the large amount of food. Steam cooking also cooks food fairly quickly, and is easier to use than many other cooking methods.



4. Saves Time in Cleaning
   Since steam cooking requires no oil, there is no mess from frying. Also the food can be steamed directly on the plate or bowl in which it will be served. This saves time in washing extra dishes.



5. All Types of Food can be Steamed
   Almost any type of food can be steamed. Vegetables, meats, pastries, rice and desserts can be cooked using a steamer. Even frozen foods and premade leftovers can be cooked or reheated in a steamer.

Steaming is such a versatile cooking technique with many benefits. For some steamed cooked recipes click here., enjoy.