Do you have one of these babies?

I have one. I love it and use is all.the.time.

Are you still wondering what it is?


This, my friends, is a vegetable steamer basket.


According the The Internet: Steaming vegetables is one of the most healthy ways you can prepare them. When they are steamed, vegetables don't lose any of the nutrients and vitamins they do when prepared in other ways. Vegetable steamer baskets have been used in different versions for centuries, but the basic concept remains the same. Vegetables are placed in a slotted basket or bowl and are cooked using the steam from boiled water.


To use the steamer, wash the vegetable of your choice and cut into the size you want to eat. I do a lot of carrots and broccoli in my steamer. Smaller pieces will take less time to cook.


Fill a pot about 1/3 of the way with water.  Place the steamer basket in the pot and add your veggie.  The water should not cover the veggie, but it's okay if some is above the basket and touching the food.


Bring the water to a boil and then turn the heat to medium or low.  Place a lid over the pot to keep the steam inside.  Now, just wait and cook until the vegetable is at your desired tenderness.  I don't like mine too mushy but I like a fork to pierce them easily.  It will take some practice to learn how long it will take.  I usually let them cook around 7-10 minutes. However, you will have to periodically check with a fork to see the progress.


Next, you lift the steamer basket out of the pot with a pot holder because it will be hot.  At this point, the veggies are ready to eat.  We usually add a smidgen of butter to the broccoli and a little garlic salt.  To carrots, I add a smidgen of butter and drizzle honey over them.


I hope you might consider one of these babies. They are easy to use and a great way to cook healthy for your family!