3-IN-1 Steamer Pot

A few friends of mine were over cooking with me and mentioned that they love my 3-in-1 steamer basket/pasta strainer/stock pot.  I received it from my bestie, Susie, years ago and am in need of new one.  I use it all the time.  So many people think they can't cook because they don't have fancy equipment in the kitchen.  But that's just not true.  With just a good knife, a cutting board and this pot you can create amazing meals.

(I probably shouldn't have taken the picture on the stove since I'm not really using the pasta strainer and steamer basket on the fire.  Just the big pot. The lid is not pictured.)

I love this pot/pan because it save me time and dishes.  I highly recommend you get one and use it.  It makes "1-pot" meals fairly easily. You may need to cook the pasta first (uncovered) and then steam your veggies, but it is still quick and easy.  I really like to add broth or seasonings to the water in the bottom and that flavors whatever you steam on the top.  It just adds a little extra flavor, or changes the flavor from the same old plain veggies.  Freshly steamed veggies are so much better than the microwave and they hold their flavor and nutrients better than if you boil them.  And, in most cases, it takes longer to boil the water than it does to actually cook the food.  Get the water on the stove and spend a few minutes prepping veggies.  Then it will all get done at the same time.  Fresh and hot and oh, so tasty.

Some suggestions:

Corn on the cob in the big pot, steamed green beans and other veggies in the steamer basket on top (that's what's for lunch today).

Soba or Rice Noodles in the pasta strainer with "stir-fry" veggies steamed on top (without the oil of stir frying).  Toss together with your favorite Asian-inspired sauce.

Miso soup in the pot, steamed edamame (or other veggies) on top. The soup flavors the edamame very nicely.

Spaghetti or other pasta in the pasta strainer and zucchini, yellow squash, red peppers, mushroom, etc. in the steam basket.  Toss together with a little red sauce or pesto.

Boiled potatoes in the bottom and carrots, cauliflower, and/or broccoli in the steam basket. Throw them all together and cover with Not-cho cheese sauce.  (Try adding a little beer and shrimp boil seasoning to the potatoes for a great kick of flavor!)

Creamy white beans cooking in the stock pot and kale steaming on the top.

The possibilities are endless.  YOU CAN COOK.  Really, you can.  It doesn't take a lot to make something healthy and special and yummy for you and your family.  Happy cooking!!