How to Use a Steamer Insert with Your Cookware
By Robert Welch® Designs | Stainless-steel cutlery, knives & cookware | Published: 2026-10-18
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to steam vegetables, fish, and more using a stainless steel steamer insert with your saucepan. Step-by-step guide with tips for perfect results every time.
Quick answer
To use a steamer insert, fill your saucepan with about 2 cm of water, place the steamer insert inside, bring the water to a gentle simmer, add your food, cover, and steam until tender.
Why steam with a steamer insert?
Steaming is one of the healthiest cooking methods because it uses gentle heat and steam instead of oil or boiling water. A steamer insert lets you cook vegetables, fish, and dumplings directly above simmering water, preserving nutrients, color, and texture. It also doubles as a colander for rinsing or draining, making it a versatile addition to your cookware set.
Choosing the right saucepan and steamer
A steamer insert must match the diameter of your saucepan to sit securely without tipping. The 316 Series Cookware Steamer Insert (18cm) is designed specifically for the 316 Series 18cm Saucepan, ensuring a snug fit and even steam circulation. If your saucepan has a different size, check the manufacturer's compatibility before buying.
Step-by-step: How to steam with a steamer insert
- Prepare the saucepan: Fill your saucepan with about 2 cm of water. Do not let the water touch the bottom of the steamer insert when it's placed inside. Too much water will boil into the steamer and make food soggy. Start with less water and add more only if it evaporates.
- Place the steamer insert and heat: Set the steamer insert into the saucepan, ensuring it sits flat and stable. Bring the water to a gentle simmer over medium heat, then reduce to low. Boiling vigorously creates excess steam that can overcook delicate food. A gentle simmer is all you need.
- Add food and cover: Arrange food in a single layer in the steamer basket. Cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid to trap steam. Steam until tender: 5-8 minutes for leafy greens, 10-15 minutes for broccoli or fish fillets. Cut food into uniform sizes for even cooking. Check doneness with a fork; avoid overcooking by testing a minute early.
- Remove and serve: Carefully lift the steamer insert out by its handles. The water in the saucepan will be very hot, so tilt the insert away from you to drain any drips. Use oven mitts or a towel—the handles get hot. Serve immediately or rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process for salads.
Product facts
- 316 Series Cookware Steamer Insert 18cm: The 18cm Steamer Insert fits the 316 Series 18cm Saucepan and is made from high quality 18/10 stainless steel. The tight fit and durable material ensure even steam distribution and long-lasting performance, so your food cooks evenly without hot spots.
316 Series Cookware Steamer Insert 18cm
