What to Cook (Besides Veggies) in Your Stainless Steel Steamer Basket

If you’ve been using your steamer basket purely for greens, you’re only scratching the surface. Don’t get us wrong – broccolini, beans and snow peas are all beautiful steamed. But there’s a whole world of delicious, low-effort meals and snacks you can make in a stainless steel steamer basket. Here’s some inspiration to get you going (none of it boring, and none of it requires a benchtop steamer or special equipment). Just your ceramic cookware, a bit of water, and your steamer basket (found in our ceramic accessories!)

Steamer baskets aren’t just for veggies! From bao buns to desserts, there’s plenty you can cook with a stainless steel steamer basket. 

Dumplings/Gyozas (Frozen or Homemade)

Dumplings or gyozas are a natural fit for steaming. Whether you’re making them from scratch or pulling a frozen pack from the freezer, your steamer basket is your best bet for juicy, evenly cooked results (no frying or boiling needed).

Place a sheet of baking paper or cabbage leaves in the base to prevent sticking. Then pop on a lid, steam for 8–12 minutes, and dip away.

It’s super simple to cook dumplings or gyozas in a steamer basket!

Fish Fillets with Flavour

Steaming fish keeps it tender, juicy and full of flavour without needing much oil or cleanup. Try snapper, salmon, barramundi or cod. Add a few slices of lemon, a pinch of salt, and some herbs or ginger, then steam for around 6–10 minutes depending on thickness. The result? A light, flavour-packed dinner that feels fancier than the effort it took.

Steamed Bao Buns

Soft, pillowy bao buns are easier than you think—and your steamer basket is the perfect tool. You can buy them ready to steam or make your own with a bit of flour, yeast and patience. Either way, line the basket with baking paper and steam for 8–10 minutes until fluffy. Fill with sticky pork, crispy tofu or pickled veg for a DIY bao night.

Made with 304-grade stainless steel, Crumble’s steamer baskets can handle whatever you throw at them. 

Reheating Leftovers (Without Drying Them Out)

The microwave is fast, but it doesn’t always do your food justice. If you’re reheating rice, dumplings, pasta bakes or anything that tends to dry out, try steaming instead. A few minutes in the basket will bring it back to life without crusty edges or rubbery textures. It’s surprisingly effective, especially for anything carb-heavy or already cooked.

Steamed Puddings and Cakes

Yes, you can even cook dessert in your steamer basket. Steamed puddings are a classic for a reason – rich, soft, and perfect on a chilly night. From chocolate self-saucing to golden syrup sponge, your steamer basket can handle ramekins or pudding moulds with ease. Just cover with foil, steam gently, and serve warm with custard or cream.

Why Stainless Steel (and Ceramic) Is a Winning Combo

Crumble’s steamer baskets are made from 304 stainless steel, so they’re durable, rust-resistant, and built to work with our non-stick ceramic cookware. Whether you’re steaming dinner or dessert, they sit neatly inside your pan – no tipping, no special inserts, no extra gadgets needed. They work across all cooktops too – gas, electric and induction – and clean up easily. Just rinse, dry and you’re good to go.

Final Thoughts

A steamer basket might look simple, but it’s one of the most useful little tools in your kitchen – especially when paired with quality ceramic cookware. From fish to bao to pudding, it opens up a whole new way to cook without needing a single drop of oil.

Explore Crumble’s full ceramic accessories collection and give your favourite pan a few more tricks up its sleeve.