Steam ovens are a great addition to Indian kitchens since they offer a healthy way to prepare a variety of dishes. This appliance uses the power of steam to cook food evenly, locking in moisture and nutrients while enhancing natural flavours. Its ability to cook without excessive oil makes it an excellent choice for health-conscious households.
In India, where culinary traditions emphasise vibrant flavours and elaborate preparation methods, a steam oven can simplify complex cooking processes. It is particularly useful for preparing meals that require precise temperature control and even cooking. From quick snacks to elaborate meals, steam ovens handle it all, ensuring consistency and quality. One of the standout features of a steam oven is its ability to preserve the texture and colour of ingredients. Vegetables retain their crunch while proteins remain tender and juicy. This makes it an ideal tool for preparing both traditional and modern dishes.
If you have Usha’s steam oven also you can enjoy your favourite dishes without compromising on health. With its ease of use and ability to adapt to various cuisines, it will become an indispensable part of your kitchen, bridging tradition with innovation. Here are some interesting appetisers for you to try making in your steam oven.
Steamed Vegetable Dumplings
A classic appetiser, steamed vegetable dumplings are a crowd-pleaser. The steam oven ensures the delicate dumpling wrappers are cooked evenly, while the filling—usually a mix of finely chopped vegetables like cabbage, carrots, and mushrooms—retains its natural crunch and flavour. Serve them hot with soy sauce or chilli oil for a delightful start to your meal.
Herbed Chicken Skewers
Steam ovens are excellent for cooking chicken skewers, keeping them juicy and tender. Marinate chunks of chicken in a blend of herbs, spices, and yoghurt, then thread them onto skewers. Steaming locks in moisture, making these skewers a healthy and flavourful option. A yoghurt-based dip pairs wonderfully with this appetiser.
Steamed Paneer Tikka
For a vegetarian option, paneer tikka made in a steam oven is a revelation. Marinated cubes of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) are infused with spices and yoghurt, then steamed to perfection. The result is soft, flavourful bites that retain all their moisture and taste divine with a mint chutney.
Asian-Style Steamed Fish Cakes
Fish cakes are a light and protein-rich appetiser that benefits from the gentle cooking of a steam oven. Made with minced fish, ginger, garlic, and Asian seasonings, these cakes are steamed until firm and served with a tangy dipping sauce. The steaming process ensures they are moist and fragrant.
Stuffed Bell Peppers
Mini bell peppers stuffed with a mixture of quinoa, herbs, and cheese make for a colorful and nutritious appetiser. A steam oven cooks the peppers just enough to soften them while maintaining their vibrant color and crunch. The stuffing turns creamy and flavourful, creating a balanced dish.
Spinach And Cheese Rolls
Steam ovens work wonders on pastry-based appetisers like spinach and cheese rolls. Use phyllo or puff pastry to wrap a savoury filling of spinach, ricotta, and spices. Steaming ensures the filling is perfectly cooked, while finishing it with a quick bake gives the pastry a golden, flaky texture.
Steamed Rice Cakes With Chutney
Inspired by Indian idlis, these rice cakes are an excellent appetiser option. Made from fermented rice and lentil batter, they are steamed to a fluffy consistency in a steam oven. Serve them with coconut or tomato chutney for a bite that’s light and delicious.
Tips To Cook Appetisers In A Steam Oven
Preheat the Oven: Always preheat your steam oven to ensure even cooking.
Use Fresh Ingredients: The natural flavours of fresh ingredients shine through in steamed dishes.
Avoid Overcrowding: Leave enough space for steam to circulate around the food.
Experiment With Spices: Steaming enhances the aroma of spices, so don’t shy away from bold flavours.
Pair With Dips: Complement steamed appetisers with flavourful dips and sauces for added variety.
Check out Usha’s range of kitchen appliances here.