Yamaichi's "Chinese Steamer"
I tried making steamed dishes using Yamaichi's "Chinese Steamer" along with a waterless pot.
At first, I thought the steamer might be a bit challenging, but once I actually used it, I was surprised at how easy it was.
I can put in my favorite ingredients, set a timer, and then focus on other cooking tasks.
There's no oil splatter, so the kitchen stays clean, and its charming appearance makes it a centerpiece on the dining table. Plus, there's less washing up, which was a huge help.
Also, like the waterless pot, "steaming" brings out the natural deliciousness of the ingredients.
Since the inside of the steamer never exceeds 100°C, there's no need to worry about burning, and it's said not to put unnecessary stress on the ingredients.
Furthermore, cooking with just steam means there's generally no need to use oil.
You can reduce oil intake, and vegetables shrink in volume when steamed, so you can eat a lot and feel satisfied.
This steamer was perfect for health-conscious me.
Excellent Durability and Quality Materials
In recent years, many inexpensive Chinese steamers made in Taiwan and China have flooded the market, but Yamaichi continues to use domestically produced cypress wood and craft their steamers by hand.
The cypress wood used as a material mainly comes from trees over 100 years old.
These are layered four times to create thickness, achieving outstanding durability.
Additionally, the lid features a double-layered bamboo wickerwork that allows steam to escape appropriately and prevents water droplets from falling onto the ingredients.
The fine and strong fibers, combined with the thick rim, provide excellent strength, making it a masterpiece that can be cherished for a long time.
Ease of Use
Yamaichi's Chinese steamers do not have claws on the top and bottom of the body like Chinese-made steamers, so the body is lower, making it easy to retrieve food from the dining table.
Additionally, the lid is tall, allowing for fluffy steamed dishes and steaming on plates, which expands the range of cooking possibilities.
I like to enjoy ingredients in large pieces, so being able to use it without worrying about height is a big plus.
If you make breakfast a one-plate meal, preparation is easy, and you can also enjoy the unique charm of the steamer.
For sizes, 21cm is recommended for 2-3 people, and 24cm or larger for 3-4 people. I personally use the 21cm one.
Before First Use
Don't forget to clean it before use.
Pour water or lukewarm water evenly over the entire steamer and use it after it is sufficiently wet.
Be careful as it may burn if placed on a pot while dry.
Steamed Vegetables
I tried various dishes using the steamer, not just for breakfast.
At this time of year, vibrant spring vegetables are essential.
So, I decided to make steamed vegetables.
"Steaming," which gently cooks food, is an excellent cooking method that offers great taste, nutrition, and ease of use.
It tastes good even after some time, so if you store it, you can easily enjoy it later by just adding seasoning.
Since it keeps well, you can also use steamed ingredients for breakfast or bento box side dishes on busy mornings the next day.
Vegetables shrink when steamed, so you can eat a lot and feel satisfied.
It's more nutritious than boiling and healthier than stir-frying, so I often rely on it.
Homemade Fluffy Shumai
The steamer is also perfect for cooking meat.
In particular, shumai made in a steamer has an irresistible fluffy tenderness that can't be achieved in a microwave, and is packed with juicy meat.
Watching the gentle steam rise from the steamer and enjoying the rich aroma of cypress after steaming is truly heartwarming.
While store-bought shumai are convenient and delicious, once you've tasted homemade, it's exceptional and perfect with a drink.
Harmonizing the Body with the Power of Steam
When eating at home, one naturally gravitates towards simple dishes.
The simple method of boiling water, adding ingredients, and steaming them provides a small respite for the body and mind after a tiring day.
Sharing the sight of ingredients peeking out as the lid is placed is a small luxury unique to the steamer that can be enjoyed with loved ones.
As the seasons gently unfold, I encourage everyone to try incorporating this into your lives as an opportunity to spend quality time with those you cherish.
