The OXO Good Grips Steaming Basket is a collapsible stainless steel basket that fits inside most pots, letting you steam vegetables, seafood, and dumplings without any special equipment. Its expandable wings lock into place over the pot’s rim, keeping food above the water for even, gentle cooking. This guide walks you through using the basket properly and includes a simple steamed vegetable recipe to get you started.
Ingredients
- 4 cups (960 ml) water
- 2 cups (240 g) broccoli florets
- 2 cups (240 g) cauliflower florets
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch (1.25 cm) rounds
- 1 medium zucchini, cut into 1/2-inch (1.25 cm) half-moons
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon (3 g) salt
- 1/4 teaspoon (0.5 g) black pepper
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) fresh lemon juice (optional)
Instructions
- Fill a large pot (at least 4 quarts / 3.8 L) with the water. The water should be about 1 inch (2.5 cm) deep, not touching the basket when it’s placed in the pot.
- Place the OXO steaming basket in the pot. To expand it, hold the center handle and pull the outer wings outward until they lock into place on the pot’s rim. Make sure the basket is stable and not touching the water.
- Bring the water to a boil over high heat. While waiting, prepare the vegetables: wash and cut them into uniform sizes so they cook evenly.
- Once the water is boiling, carefully place the vegetables into the basket in a single layer. Do not overcrowd; if needed, steam in batches.
- Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and reduce the heat to medium. Steam for 8–12 minutes, until the vegetables are fork-tender but still crisp. Check at 8 minutes to avoid overcooking.
- Using oven mitts, carefully lift the basket out of the pot by its center handle. The basket will be hot; let it drain over the pot for a few seconds.
- Transfer the vegetables to a serving bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and toss gently. Add lemon juice if desired. Serve warm.
Tips
- Don’t let the water touch the basket: If the water is too high, it will boil onto the food, making it soggy. Keep the water level below the basket’s base.
- Cut vegetables uniformly: Smaller pieces cook faster. For even results, cut everything to the same size, as in the recipe.
- Use the lid: A tight-fitting lid traps steam and speeds up cooking. Without it, you’ll need to add a few extra minutes.
- Substitute vegetables: Green beans, asparagus, or snap peas work well; reduce steaming time to 5–7 minutes. Root vegetables like potatoes take 15–20 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the steamed vegetables as a side dish with grilled chicken, fish, or tofu. They also make a great base for a grain bowl—add cooked quinoa, brown rice, and a drizzle of tahini dressing. For a light lunch, toss them with pasta and a little pesto.
Variations
- Asian-style: After steaming, toss with 1 tablespoon (15 ml) soy sauce, 1 teaspoon (5 ml) sesame oil, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
- Herb butter: Melt 2 tablespoons (30 g) butter with 1 minced garlic clove and 1 tablespoon (15 ml) chopped fresh parsley; drizzle over the hot vegetables.
- Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha before serving.
- Steam dumplings: Use the basket to steam store-bought or homemade dumplings. Line the basket with cabbage leaves or parchment paper to prevent sticking, and steam for 8–10 minutes until cooked through.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover steamed vegetables in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. To reheat, place them in a microwave-safe dish with a splash of water, cover, and microwave in 30-second bursts until hot. Alternatively, reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a little oil for 2–3 minutes. Do not refreeze previously frozen vegetables after steaming.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use the OXO steaming basket in any pot? Yes, it fits pots with diameters from 6 to 10 inches (15–25 cm). The wings expand to lock onto the rim, so it works with most standard pots and even some deep skillets.
How do I clean the steaming basket? The basket is dishwasher-safe, but hand washing with warm, soapy water is recommended to prevent mineral buildup. If there are white spots from hard water, soak it in a 50/50 vinegar-water solution for 10 minutes, then rinse.
Why is my food steaming unevenly? Uneven cooking usually happens when the basket is overcrowded or the water level is too high. Leave space between pieces and keep the water below the basket’s base.
Can I steam frozen vegetables? Yes, but add 2–3 minutes to the cooking time. There’s no need to thaw them first; just place them in the basket and steam until hot and tender.
Is the basket safe to use with a pressure cooker? No, the OXO steaming basket is not designed for pressure cookers. Use a trivet or steamer basket specifically made for pressure cooking to avoid damage.
How do I prevent the basket from scratching my pot? The basket has silicone tips on the wings to protect the pot’s surface. Make sure they are intact; if they wear out, you can purchase replacement tips from OXO.
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Safety notes: safe minimum internal temperatures from USDA FSIS; raw and undercooked fish guidance from the U.S. FDA. Food safety notes
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