How to steam dumplings without a steamer

Imagine you’re in the mood for some delicious dumplings but realize you don’t own a steamer or the fancy kitchen gadgets often associated with perfecting this dish. Perhaps you have guests coming over, and you want to impress them with your culinary skills without the need for complicated equipment. Or maybe you’re simply looking for a fun way to experiment with cooking techniques in your kitchen. Whatever the reason, figuring out how to steam dumplings without a proper steamer can seem daunting, but it’s entirely doable with a bit of creativity and resourcefulness.

You can steam dumplings without a steamer by using a heatproof plate or bowl set over a pot of simmering water.

To set up this method, take a large pot and fill it with a few inches of water, ensuring the water level is low enough that it won’t touch the plate or bowl you will be using to hold the dumplings. Bring the water to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Place a heatproof plate or shallow bowl upside down in the pot; this acts as a raised platform for your dumplings. Next, arrange your dumplings on another plate that can fit inside the pot–make sure it doesn’t touch the water. Cover the pot tightly with a lid to trap the steam and let the dumplings cook for about 15-20 minutes, depending on their size and filling. Keep an eye on the water level, adding more as necessary to prevent it from boiling dry. This method is simple yet effective and will yield deliciously steamed dumplings without needing to invest in a steamer. Enjoy your homemade dumplings!