How Long Does It Take To Steam Frozen Vegetables?
Steaming frozen vegetables is a quick and relatively simple way to prepare a nutritious meal. This cooking method retains a good amount of the vegetables’ vitamins and minerals. Here are the four major steps for steaming vegetables from frozen.
Defrost the Vegetables
Before steaming, it’s best to defrost the vegetables. This can take around 20 minutes to thaw, and should be done in the refrigerator, not on the counter. The fastest and easiest way is to put them in a bowl with cold water and let them sit for 15-20 minutes. If you’re in a hurry, you can microwave the vegetables for two minutes on a low setting.
Fill The Steamer and Start To Cook
After defrosting the vegetables, the next step is to fill the steamer pan with about one cup of water. Put the vegetables into the steamer, making sure they’re spread evenly. Turn on the heat and let the vegetables steam for 8-10 minutes.
Check for Doneness
To check if the vegetables are cooked, insert a fork or knife into one of them. If it cuts easily, the vegetables are done. If not, let them cook a few minutes more.
Plate the Vegetables
Finally, carefully remove the vegetables from the steamer onto the plate. You can then season them with spices, herbs, or sauces.
Summary
- Defrost the Vegetables: 20 minutes
- Fill and Start to Cook: 8-10 minutes
- Check for Doneness: Variable Length
- Plate the Vegetables: 5 minutes
In summary, the steaming frozen vegetables process typically takes around 33-40 minutes. It’s a fast way to prepare a nutritious meal without sacrificing flavor or texture.