How can I steam my stove without a steamer?

The technique is simple: fill a medium pot with 1/2 inch of water, place three golf ball–sized balls of aluminum foil on the bottom, rest a heat-proof plate on top of the foil balls, cover the pot, and bring the water to a boil. Add vegetables to the plate, cover, and steam until crisp-tender.

What can I use if I don’t have a steamer basket?

If you don’t steam food frequently—‚or if you find yourself in need of a steaming basket, stat—don’t run out and buy one. All you need is a metal colander or a baking rack, a big pot, and some aluminum foil, and you’ve got everything you need to make a steamer at home.

How long to steam asparagus on stove top?

Cut the asparagus to fit into your steamer basket. Cover and steam until the asparagus are bright green and tender, but still somewhat crisp, about 6 to 8 minutes for thick asparagus and 3 to 5 minutes for thin asparagus. Remove from the steamer and season with salt and pepper.

What kind of wine to use for steamed asparagus?

For the wine, we recommend Pinot Grigio. Place asparagus in a microwave-safe dish. Pour in wine, and dot with pieces of butter. Cover loosely, and cook in the microwave on High for 3 minutes, or until bright green and tender. Allow the dish to stand 5 minutes before serving.

How do you steam vegetables without a steamer basket?

The technique is simple: fill a medium pot with 1/2 inch of water, place three golf ball–sized balls of aluminum foil on the bottom, rest a heat-proof plate on top of the foil balls, cover the pot, and bring the water to a boil. Add vegetables to the plate, cover, and steam until crisp-tender. Carefully remove vegetables from plate and set aside.

Can You steam asparagus for a cold dish?

Steamed asparagus is also marvelous for cold dishes like salads, terrines, or cold noodle bowls. Trim the asparagus: Trim the bottom 1 to 1 1/2-inches of woody stem from the bottom of the asparagus.