Is it better to eat steamed or boiled food?
Steaming and boiling are both healthy cooking methods, but which is better?
Steaming - a method for preserving nutrients.
According to Dr. Huynh Tan Vu, from the University Medical Center of Ho Chi Minh City (facility 3), steaming is a technique for cooking food using hot steam. When the water boils, steam rises, surrounding the food and cooking it from top to bottom. Thanks to this cooking method, food retains its flavor, texture, and nutritional content better than boiling.
Besides its nutritional benefits, steaming is also more convenient and cleaner. Homemakers don't need to use a lot of oil or complicated utensils. Cleaning a steamer is also easier than cleaning pots and pans used for frying or stir-frying.
Steaming also preserves the natural flavor of food, as there is no intervention of oil or high temperatures like frying or grilling. This is a quick, simple cooking method that still ensures delicious and healthy meals.
Boiling - nutrients may be lost.
Boiling is a method of cooking food by placing it in boiling water. However, some water-soluble vitamins and minerals can be lost, reducing the nutritional value of the food.
Meanwhile, frying methods often use a lot of oil and fat, which can increase the risk of weight gain. In particular, grilling meat at high temperatures can cause chemical changes, creating harmful compounds and even increasing the risk of cancer.
Why should steamed dishes be preferred?
Retains more nutrients:Steam helps to cook food until tender without causing too much loss of vitamins and minerals.
Enhance natural flavors:Steamed food retains its natural freshness and flavor without the need for oil or strong seasonings.
Without altering the ingredients:The gentle steaming method helps prevent food from drying out, becoming tough, or burning.
Fast and convenient:With just a simple steamer, you can prepare a quick, nutritious meal.
A healthier choice:By not using oil or fat, it helps control calorie and fat intake, making it suitable for a healthy diet.
Dr. Vu emphasized that between steaming and boiling, steaming is the cooking method that retains the most nutrients while preserving the natural flavor of food. If possible, prioritize steamed dishes in your daily diet to maintain better health.
