| Step | Do | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Setup | Veg above ~1 in simmering water | Vapour cooks, no washout |
| Cover | Tight lid, single layer | Traps steam, cooks evenly |
| Time | Greens 3–5, dense 8–12 min | Match time to density |
| No steamer | Colander, plate on bowl, microwave | Same job, any kitchen |
How to Steam Vegetables
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Bring about an inch of water to a simmer, set the vegetables in a single layer in a steamer basket above (not touching) the water, cover, and cook until crisp-tender — 3–5 minutes for greens, 8–12 for dense carrots or potatoes. No steamer needed: a metal colander over a pot, a heatproof plate on an upturned bowl, or a covered bowl with a splash of water in the microwave all work.