How to Steam Without a Bamboo Steamer

Equipment Options

• Bamboo steamer
• Metal steamer with lid
• Tabletop electric steamer
• Wok or saucepan with plate and lid
• Greaseproof paper
• Clean tea towel or cloth

PREPARATION

COOKING

Method 1: Bamboo Steamer

The Gold Standard

1. Line the bamboo steamer with greaseproof paper or perforated parchment.
2. Place bao inside, leaving space between each. Do not allow them to touch the sides.
3. Set over boiling water.
4. Steam for 8 minutes.

The bamboo absorbs excess condensation, keeping bao dry and fluffy.

Method 2: Metal Steamer with Lid

Metal steamers work well but require moisture control.

1. Line the steamer basket with greaseproof paper.
2. Leave space between each bao and avoid contact with the sides.
3. Wrap the underside of the lid with a clean tea towel to absorb condensation. Ensure the cloth does not hang near the flame.
4. Place lid on and steam for 8 minutes over boiling water.

The cloth prevents condensation from dripping directly onto the bao.

Method 3: Tabletop Electric Steamer

1. Wipe excess condensation from the lid before starting.
2. Line trays with greaseproof paper.
3. Space bao evenly.
4. Optionally wrap the lid with a clean cloth to minimise dripping.
5. Steam for 8 minutes.

Even with more visible condensation, bao should remain light if spaced properly.

Method 4: Wok or Saucepan with Plate

If you do not own any type of steamer, this method works perfectly.

1. Add a shallow layer of water to a wok or large saucepan.
2. Place a heatproof plate inside so it sits above the water level.
3. Line the plate with greaseproof paper.
4. Bring the water to a full boil.
5. Place bao onto the plate, leaving space between each.
6. Cover with a domed lid. If using a flat lid, wrap it in a clean cloth to absorb condensation.
7. Steam for 8 minutes.

This method produces excellent results as long as the bao are not sitting in water and condensation is managed.

Steaming Guidelines

• Always steam over a full boil before starting your timer.
• Do not overcrowd the steamer.
• Avoid letting bao touch the sides where condensation collects.
• Eight minutes is usually ideal for standard bao buns.

School of Wok Tips

• Condensation is the main enemy. Control it and you control your texture.
• Domed lids create less direct dripping than flat lids.
• Cloth under the lid absorbs excess steam effectively.
• Bamboo remains the most forgiving and reliable option.

FAQs

Why does a bamboo steamer work better?
Bamboo absorbs excess moisture, preventing dripping and sogginess.

Can I steam bao directly on a plate?
Yes, as long as the plate is elevated above boiling water and lined with greaseproof paper.

Why are my bao soggy?
Most likely from condensation dripping back down. Use a cloth under the lid and avoid overcrowding.