How to Use Mini Spruce Steamers for Quick Veggie Sides
By Our Place | Published: 2026-10-23
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to steam fresh vegetables fast with the Mini Spruce Steamers from Our Place. Perfect for small batch cooking and healthy sides in minutes.
Quick Answer
Use your Mini Spruce Steamers to make tender, vibrant veggie sides in about 5–10 minutes—ideal for one or two servings.
Why Steam with Mini Spruce Steamers?
Steaming preserves more nutrients and natural color than boiling, and the Mini Spruce Steamers are sized perfectly for small portions. Because they fit the Mini Always Pan or Mini Perfect Pot, you can cook a side without heating up a large pot or using extra water.
The set includes two stackable steamers, so you can cook two different vegetables at once—or double a single batch. Just remember that denser vegetables like carrots will need a few extra minutes compared to tender greens.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Prepare the Vegetables: Wash and cut your veggies into uniform pieces—about 1-inch chunks for broccoli, green beans, or bell peppers. Smaller pieces steam faster and more evenly. Avoid overcrowding the steamer; leave space between pieces for steam to circulate.
- Add Water and Bring to a Simmer: Pour about 1 inch of water into your Mini Always Pan or Mini Perfect Pot. Bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat—not a rolling boil, which can dry out the pan too quickly. If the water level drops below the steamer base during cooking, add a splash of hot water to prevent scorching.
- Place the Steamer and Cover: Set the Mini Spruce Steamer into the pan, making sure it sits flat above the water. Add your vegetables, then cover with the pan’s lid. For two different veggies, stack the second steamer on top. Check that the lid fits snugly; steam escaping from the sides will slow down cooking.
- Steam and Check for Doneness: Steam for 4–6 minutes for tender vegetables like asparagus or snow peas, or 7–10 minutes for denser options like carrots or potatoes. Pierce with a fork to test—they should be tender but still have a slight bite. If you’re steaming two stacked layers, swap their positions halfway through for even cooking.
- Serve Immediately: Use the included bamboo chopsticks or tongs to lift the steamer out. Transfer veggies to a plate, season with salt, pepper, or a squeeze of lemon, and serve right away. Leftover steamed vegetables can be refrigerated for up to 2 days, but they are best enjoyed fresh.
Product Details
- Mini Spruce Steamers: Handmade by Chinese artisans, each Mini Spruce Steamer is unique and custom-designed to fit the Mini Always Pan or Mini Perfect Pot. The custom fit ensures stable steaming without wobbling, and the artisan craftsmanship means your steamer has its own subtle character.
Mini Spruce Steamers
