This bamboo steamer is about 8"w x 3"h in size and is made of natural bamboo with stainless steel surrounding the base steamer's rim. This gives the bamboo steamer a bit more protection from the normal wear and tear of regular uses. The 8 inch bamboo steamer is sold as individual pieces. You can purchase the bamboo steamer base and lid separately. This allows you to purchase additional bases or lids as addition or replacement. Some people need only one base to steam, while other like to stack 2-3 steamer base to steam multiple things at once! There is even a small handle on top of the bamboo lid so you can lift up the cover easily.
The bamboo steamers are usually used inside a wok (be sure your wok is about 2" wider than the bamboo steamer baskets) but can also be set over a stockpot containing boiling water. As the water boils, steam enters the bamboo steamer through the open slats in the bottom and is contained in the bamboo steamer by the lid.
We also offer dim sum steamer papers that goes great with this bamboo steamer. Be sure to get a slightly smaller steamer paper size than your bamboo steamer.
Bamboo naturally absorbs any condensation, keeping water from dripping back onto the food. When heated, it forms a hot container and, with the cover in place, can keep food warm for up to half an hour. A bamboo steamer is also an attractive serving piece and may be brought right to the table. Foods that are steamed require little or no added oils or fats, cook quickly and evenly and retain most of their vitamins and minerals. Steam delicious Chinese dim sums, dumplings, vegetables, fish, and more with this bamboo steamer!