If you are a fan of Chinese cuisine and want to make it at home, investing in a bamboo steamer is the way to go. Traditionally they’re used to cook dumplings, fish and vegetables. Of course, if you find that you’ve got the best bamboo steamer to do all three, you may decide to get creative and use the bamboo steamer basket for something else. While it’s highly recommended to become a pro at the first three items before testing other foods, this cooking method is a useful alternative if you’re unhappy with the presentation (or texture) results of boiling or poaching your food. Or, if you just want a little variety.
Make sure to add parchment paper, leaves (banana, pandan, shiso, grape), or corn husks to your grocery list as a layer inside the bamboo steamer. (Paper liners, cheesecloth or leaves also work well.) And remember that an ideal bamboo steamer can correctly steam your food to completion. All you need is a couple of inches of steady water. Do not overfill the pan or purchase one that “swims” or tips over in your pan or wok. And if you want to add a little extra flavor to your food in the bamboo steamers below, some cooks use broth or tea leaves instead of water to enhance the flavoring.
Sprinkled throughout each post, you will find suggested cleaning, cooking and shopping tips for your next (or first) bamboo steamer. Even if from first glance you think you found a winner, you may want to review all 12 posts for handy steamer tips.
Best Bamboo Steamers
Amazon.com
1. All Natural 9 Inch Asian Kitchen Bamboo Steamer Basket
All Natural 9 Inch Asian Kitchen Bamboo Steamer Basket
Free shipping
Features
- AUTHENTIC ASIAN COOKING: Create Healthy Chinese Cuisine or Asian Cooking at Home. Bamboo Dumpling Steamer Basket- 2 Tier - For vegetables, dumplings, and more
- SIZE: Outer Diameter: 9.5 Inch, Inside Basket: 8.75 Inch Natural Bamboo Steamer is ideal for Steaming Vegetables, Rice, Fish, Dim Sum. Great for low-fat recipes and cooking. Package Dimensions: L 9.5 W 9.5 D 6.25 Inches
- NATURALLY WOVEN BAMBOO: Retain Moisture, Nutrients, Color, and Flavor. The natural look and design of this bamboo steamer basket also makes this a wonderful Asian Decor addition to any Asian themed home.
- STACKABLE BASKETS: 2 two tiered air steamer design allows multiple items to be steamed at one time. The paper liner accessories can also be use with your air fryer making this an easy addition to your Asian decor and Asian kitchen accessories collection.
- BAMBOO STEAMER SET: This two tier bamboo steamer makes easy food storage and table serving accessory. Quality construction.
This two-tier basket is perfect for your next batch of dumplings, vegetables, rice, dim sum and more.
Key Features
- 6 inches x 9.5 inches x 6.3 inches
- Two-tier stackable baskets with lid
With two tiers, you’ll have the option to steam multiple items at once. The (not included) paper liner accessories double as handy cooking liners for an air fryer.
It’s easy to prepare meals with this bamboo steamer in a stockpot, wok or saucepan. This eco-friendly food pot basket set also includes a top for the two-tier storage bin.
Cons
- As with any bamboo steamer, take a good look at it before first meal preparation to confirm there are no splinters or cracks, as one bamboo steamer reviewer complained
- Not suitable for dishwasher (Use vinegar, soap and water to clean instead)
The naturally woven bamboo has an authentic feel for Asian decor that makes it the type of cooking appliance you’ll want to keep out on your counter even when you’re not preparing a meal. Use it to store vegetables or small fruits with a bit of extra flair and/or to steam quinoa.
2. Premium Organic Bamboo Steamer Basket
Premium Organic Bamboo Steamer Basket
$23.97 in stock
Free shipping
Features
- BRING THE TASTE OF THE ORIENT TO YOUR HOME. Now you can cook authentic Chinese and Asian cuisine by using the most delicate way of cook possible - by steaming. It is the BEST method for cooking food with delicate taste and texture such as fish and vegetables.
- 10 INCHES - MOST SUITABLE SIZE FOR USE AROUND THE AVERAGE HOME KITCHEN. It is large enough to fit most foods and the right size to fit in most wok's, pans or pots (average home wok/pan size 11.5"/29.5 cm). The stackable 2-tier design allows different food to be steamer simultaneously. It is also suitable for microwave use.
- DURABLE ECO-FRIENDLY ORGANIC BAMBOO. Hand made with durable bamboo, the Harcas Bamboo steamer is hand made with premium bamboo and reinforced with stainless steel bands making it extra sturdy and durable. Unlike other bamboo steamers, this steamer is really made to last!
- EASY TO CLEAN AND STORE. This Bamboo Steamer Tray is easy to clean and store. Simply give it a quick rinse after each use and dry before storing away.
- BACKED BY OUR 90 Day 100% MONEY BACK GUARANTEE. We believe this is one of the best Bamboo Steamers out there so we are offering such an amazing guarantee.
While metal steamers may get hotter and make food a bit crispier, bamboo steamers with less heat help avoid food sticking to the bottom of each level.
Key Features
- 6 inches x 9.4 inches x 6 inches
- Handmade with organic bamboo
- Reinforced with stainless steel bands
- Two-tier stackable baskets
On average, this bamboo steamer can fit most pans, pots and woks. With a two-tier system, you can steam various foods simultaneously.
The premium bamboo and stainless steel bands make it more durable than other products and hopefully built to last.
Cons
- Not suitable for dishwasher (Use vinegar, soap and water to clean instead)
- Bamboo steamer review challenges whether stainless steel band may constrain bamboo material expansion when steaming, leading to cracks
- Metal staples, plastic and/or plastic can rust with continuous use
Although this product is suitable for microwave use, the goal of a bamboo steamer is to be able to absorb and keep some of the flavor of the foods you’re cooking (or steaming). Using it in the microwave will defeat the purpose of the nutrition and moisture perks. Should you try it, there is a 90-day, 100 percent money-back guarantee.
3. Natural Bamboo Steamer Basket
Natural Bamboo Steamer Basket
out of stock
2 used from $ 34.00
Free shipping
Features
- EAT HEALTHY: Steam cook vegetables, meat, seafood, poultry and more! Provides quick and efficient cooking while sealing in nutrients.
- REHEAT FOODS: Great for heating up meat, veggies, pasta, rice, quinoa and more!
- QUALITY CONSTRUCTION: Made from food-safe, 100% natural woven bamboo
- 2-TIER CONSTRUCTION: This Bamboo Steamer is stackable which allows you to cook or reheat more items at the same time
- DIMENSIONS: Bamboo Steamer has an inner diameter of 9.5 inches, an exterior diameter of 10 inches and a height of 6.2 inches.
In addition to preparing food from start to finish, bamboo steamers also come in handy to reheat meats, seafood, poultry and vegetables.
Key Features
- 100 percent natural woven bamboo
- 6 inches x 10.5 inches x 7 inches
- Two-tier stackable baskets
This two-tier, stackable construction is essential for preparing multiple items at once and/or reheating various foods at once. And while it doesn’t take long to do so, you may want to keep an eye on the temperature and water while reheating. (It should take less time than from scratch.)
Cons
- Bamboo steamer edges may be sharper with potential risk for splinters
- Not suitable for dishwasher (Use vinegar, soap and water to clean instead)
If you’re worried about damaging the 100 percent natural woven bamboo basket material in a pot or wok, there’s also a listing option to purchase Helen’s Asian Kitchen Steaming Ring for 10-Inch Steamers. (Scroll to the bottom of the page for a video explaining why this may matter.) The steaming ring sits on top of a pot so you don’t have to worry about too much heat scorching the bottom.
4. Zoie + Chloe 100% Natural Bamboo Steamer Basket
Zoie + Chloe 100% Natural Bamboo Steamer Basket
1 used from $ 15.81
Free shipping
Features
- Includes 2 pieces of reusable, size-fitting cotton liners. Eco-friendly alternative to paper liners.
- Great for Dim Sum, Dumpling, Veggies and More! Healthy cooking a great variety of foods: vegetables, meats and fish. Cuts down fats and grease.
- Doomed lid traps steam for quick cooking while sealing in food's moisture and nutrients. Easy to use over a sauce pan, stockpot or inside a wok.
- 2 stackable baskets made of 100% natural bamboo; contains no metal, wires or plastic.
- High quality eco-friendly and sustainable bamboo ensures great durability.
In addition to maintaining the natural flavor, texture, color and shape of your food, steaming the food with this doomed lid also helps to avoid drying out your meal the way frying and microwaving can. While fast food and (often) restaurant foods are full of fat and grease that linger once re-heated (or taste terrible on their second round), steaming foods has a texture and taste consistency that wins over homemade meals every time.
Key Features
- Two-tier stackable baskets
- 100 percent natural bamboo
- 8 inches x 8 inches x 5.5 inches
Included with the bamboo steamer are two reusable, form-fitting cotton liners to test out whether you prefer those or using actual food to line the bottoms. They are eco-friendly and can be washed as needed, as opposed to paper liners. Or, you could use a combination of all three.
Cons
- One bamboo steamer reviewer complain of a woodsy taste
- Several bamboo steamer reviews confirm bamboo material unravels after a few uses
- Not suitable for dishwasher (Use vinegar, soap and water to clean instead)
This eco-friendly and sustainable bamboo steamer contains no plastic, metal or wires. Considering reviews for this bamboo steamer, along with others, may complain of a woodsy flavor on first use, it is always best to soak the bamboo steamer before first use. Oftentimes they are out on vendor tables and in boxes. As with any other pots and pans (and even clothes) that are constantly handled, wash before use. Here’s a video with tips to clean your bamboo steamer.
5. Helen Chen’s Asian Kitchen Bamboo Steamer
Helen Chen's Asian Kitchen Bamboo Steamer
$22.99 in stock
2 used from $ 18.49
Free shipping
Features
- Bamboo steamer for cooking vegetables, meats and fish or reheating foods, like dim sum; 10-inch
- Handcrafted from 100-percent tightly woven bamboo slats secured with bamboo pegs; contains no metal, wires or plastic
- Tight-fitting lid traps steam for quick and efficient cooking while sealing in food's nutrients
- For use with Helen Chen's Asian Kitchen 11" Steaming Ring (sold separately)
- Hand wash only
While other cooking methods may leave food with a soggy texture and taste, bamboo steamers absorb water. This means that there is condensation in the steamer. Because the heat is rising up, there’s nothing to “drip” onto the food—the double woven lid “traps” the steam inside to cook with little heat loss.
Key Features
- 10 inches x 10 inches x 7.5 inches
- Two-tier stackable baskets (unlike photo that looks like four racks)
- Instruction book with recipes included
As with most bamboo steamers that are made with even racks, the two can be switched interchangeably as needed. This may also be a good way to avoid too much heat on the bottom rack from pots, woks and pans. Just make sure the food is at least an inch away from the outsides and on the liners to help with cleaning.
Cons
- Bamboo steamer reviewers complained that the rack came unraveled after a handful of uses
- May be sharp to the touch (i.e., splinters are not uncommon) so wear oven mitts
- Not suitable for dishwasher (Use vinegar, soap and water to clean instead)
Secured with bamboo pegs, this 100 percent, tightly woven, handcrafted basket contains no plastic, wires or metal. Hand wash only to keep it in durable condition. While you could always use fancy plates and trays to serve the food once it’s done, serving in these steamers may impress your guests, too.
6. Trademark Innovations 3 Piece Bamboo Steamer
Trademark Innovations 3 Piece Bamboo Steamer
$12.08 in stock
Free shipping
Features
- Made from 100% natural bamboo
- Measures 10 inches in diameter
- 2 tiers plus a domed lid
- Hand wash with warm water
- By Trademark Innovations
Did you know that you can boil eggs with a bamboo steamer too? Just steam as usual. The heat is trapped inside the lid. The shells come off as easily. Make one as a snack or to kick off your next batch of potato salad.
Key Features
- 100 percent natural bamboo
- 10 inches x 10 inches x 6.5 inches
- Two-tier stackable baskets
According to a bamboo steamer review question, Trademark Innovations products are made in China. As with any bamboo steamer, wash before use and check for any manufacturer problems (stains, unraveling, smells, etc.) before first use.
If all looks well, steam a variety of foods as preferred. If you try boiled eggs (as suggested above) or other foods, specifically if you are a newbie to bamboo steamers, monitor the quality of the bamboo steamer and make sure your food is not overcooked or undercooked.
Cons
- Several bamboo steamer reviews confirm it unwound after only a few uses
- A couple of bamboo steamer reviews complained of mold and stains at the bottom
- Not suitable for dishwasher (Use vinegar, soap and water to clean instead)
Unlike metal appliances or cooking products such as pressure cookers, bamboo steamers make it as easy as pots and pons to check food as needed. Just place the doomed lid back on top to trap heat again. Hand wash with warm water to keep the material durable and clean.
7. Mister Kitchenware Handmade Bamboo Steamer
Mister Kitchenware Handmade Bamboo Steamer
Free shipping
Features
- STEAMING IS A HEALTHY COOKING METHOD - Steaming is a more gentle process than simmering, frying, boiling or poaching. It helps preserve minerals and vitamins while keeping the foods color, shape, flavor and texture. There is also need to use any oil or fat when cooking with a bamboo steamer.
- 2 TEIR CONSTRUCTION - Bamboo steamers can have stackable layers with slatted bottoms. Such multi-level steamers are highly efficient as they allow you to steam multiple items simultaneously. our two tier baskets allow the space to cook or reheat more servings at once. Each Tier Offers 10" Diameter x 2.4" Depth; Interior Diameter: 9.25"
- STEAMED FOOD TASTED BETTER - Bamboo steamers absorb the excess moisture which in turn prevent condensation from dripping on the food. Constructed of a circular bamboo frame, the steamer features a slatted bamboo bottom that allows steam to move freely within the cooking chamber. The domed bamboo-mesh lid helps circulate heat. If you don't like soggy veggies, you have yet another reason to use a bamboo steamer.
- BACKED BY OUR 60 Day 100% HASSLE FREE MONEY BACK GUARANTEE - If you are not completely satisfied with our Bamboo Steamer set we offer a 60 day 100% money back guarantee, no questions asked. We are that confident that you will love this steaming basket and we are willing to offer this money back guarantee.
- HOW TO CARE FOR YOUR BAMBOO STEAMER - Bamboo steamers are not dishwasher safe. Vinegar is a natural safe way to disinfect and deodorize it. Use a half a cup of vinegar in one gallon of hot water to soak a cloth in and lightly squeeze out the water from the cloth. Wipe over the bamboo steamer with the cloth and repeat this method a few times until clean. Rinse the cloth in hot clean water and wipe the bamboo steamer over once more. Let your bamboo steamer completely dry on the rack before putting
While bread is a customer favorite in restaurants, and usually ends up on tables before the appetizers are even requested, it can also be a hassle to use before it goes stale at home. If you do take the leftover bread home and try to eat it later, chances are high that it won’t taste the same. Bamboo steamers such as this one are a great way to revitalize stale bread in a way that traditional ovens, toasters and microwaves simply cannot. Steam per usual, and the moisture that once was in the bread returns—without a soggy texture.
Key Features
- Two-tier stackable baskets
- 3 inches x 10.3 inches x 6.8 inches
Shaped in a circular bamboo frame, the two-tier bamboo steamer has slats to allow steam to move freely in the cooking areas but is separate enough so that different foods can cook without blending into each other (ex. fish on one tray and vegetables on another). In addition to the bamboo steamer, the package also includes chopsticks, a sauce dish and 10 liners.
Cons
- Not suitable for dishwasher (Use vinegar, soap and water to clean instead)
There is a 60-day, 100 percent hassle-free money-back guarantee if you are not satisfied with the bamboo steamer.
8. Handmade Food Wooden Steamer
Handmade Food Wooden Steamer
$38.99 in stock
Features
- ☺SIZE: Diameter:21cm/8.23inch
- ☺MATERIAL: Material:white pine; Technology:color glaze; Shape:round
- ☺BIG SUSHI TUB FOR RICE: Hangiri is serve to absorb moisture from recently cooked rice and allow the rice to cool down quickly Great for preparing or mixing the rice with seasons or sauce.
- ☺ADVANTAGE AND APPLICATION: This hangiri is durable and not easy to become mold,ensuring long service life,with good heat preservation performance.Use for making sushi, sushi rice, etc.
- ☺NOTICE:Because the properties of the hangiri can only be washed with water and HAND wash only. hangiri
If you’re a big fan of sushi or even vegetarian versions, such as avocado maki rolls or sweet potato maki rolls, a bamboo steamer is the perfect way to try testing out sushi rice for the first time.
Key Features
- 27 inches x 8.23 inches X 3 inches
- Three-tier stackable baskets
- White pine material
This three-tier bamboo basket is big enough to fit approximately four small dim sum dishes in each basket. Skip the fat and oil. Just add a slice of lemon (or lemon juice) and/or a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
Let the seasoning and the steam work their magic to prepare your next meal. In an estimated five to 12 minutes, the food should be cooked to perfection.
Cons
- Not suitable for dishwasher (Use vinegar, soap and water to clean instead)
According to WineFolly.com, two of the best wines to drink while eating sushi are Provençal Rosé and Grüner Veltliner. Other cooking sites suggest steaming with wine. Be prepared for staining at the bottom of the bamboo steamer should you decide to do it. Maybe it’s worth the duo-taste combination though.
9. Bamboo Steamer
Bamboo Steamer
$26.00 in stock
Features
- NO RISK: Unsatisfied? Lifelong money back guarantee.
- FREE E-BOOK with great tips and recipes: the eBook includes 6 recipes, a how-to-use-guide and a cheat-sheet for steaming times.
- EASY to clean: No wires or strings. Hand wash only. No more food sticking to pots and pans. Fat free and easy cooking with minimal cleaning effort. Only rinse (if needed) and air-dry.
- MADE of 100% eco friendly bamboo. Natural and hand-made. Suitable for any pot, wok, pan smaller than 10 inch in diameter.
- IDEAL for vegetables, rice, fish, dim sum, buns, yum cha, Asian streetfood. Great for LOW FAT diets and health conscious meal preparation. Prepare food, keeping their valuable nutrients, without adding unhealthy oils and fats! Cook a whole meat over only one pot using the different layers.
Tofu is one of those foods that if not cooked correctly, it just tastes like unsweetened marshmallows. Of course vegans know the difference between silken tofu, firm tofu and extra firm tofu. While it can be baked or fried, steaming tofu is often a crowd favorite too.
Key Features
- 10 inches x 10 inches x 6.7 inches
- 100 percent eco-friendly bamboo
- e-Book, user guide and recipes included
- Two-tier stackable baskets
If you’re not sure where to start with this natural, handmade bamboo steamer, the free e-book with six recipes, a how-to guide and a cheat sheet can get you initiated.
With the tofu mentioned above, this bamboo steamer can keep the necessary moisture in it with any desire spices. Just make sure to drain tofu correctly before using a bamboo steamer such as this one.
Cons
- Not suitable for dishwasher (Use vinegar, soap and water to clean instead)
If this Bamboo Steamer isn’t the right steamer for you, there is a lifelong money-back guarantee.
10. Flexzion Bamboo Steamer Basket
Flexzion Bamboo Steamer Basket
Features
- Stackable 2 tiered steamer baskets made of woven bamboo; the bamboo wood steamer is sturdy and water resistant
- Designed for use inside a wok or over a stockpot; Measures 8 Inches in diameter
- Domed lid retains moisture, nutrients, colour and flavour
- Leverages steam cooking for vegetables, rice, fish, dim sum
- Ideal for creating authentic asian Chinese cuisine at home
While this steamer basket doesn’t have to be used as a serving dish, it’s pretty enough to sit in the middle of the table to eat out of. Grab some chopsticks and go to food town.
Key Features
- 8 inches x 5.3 inches
- Two-tier stackable baskets
- Water resistant
In addition to the bamboo steamer, the package also includes approximately 50 steamer liners and two pairs of chopsticks.
Cons
- Not suitable for dishwasher (Use vinegar, soap and water to clean instead)
Sturdy and water resistant, this bamboo steamer is perfect for preparing meats, vegetables and more. If cleaned correctly and left out to air dry, this will eliminate concerns about mold and (hopefully) leftover food smells.
11. JapanBargain Bamboo Cooking Steamer Set
JapanBargain Bamboo Cooking Steamer Set
Free shipping
Features
- Includes two bamboo baskets and one lid.
- Dimensions: 10 inches Diameter X 6-1/4 inches Height
- Material: Bamboo
In addition to making sure your bamboo steamer is properly cleaned and air dried, placement of food matters too. Foods that take longer to cook should be on the bottom steamer basket (ex. fish or meat). Foods that take less time to cook (ex. vegetables) can be prepared on the top basket.
Key Features
- Two-tier stackable baskets
- 3 inches x 10.2 inches x 7 inches
This two-tier basket can prepare multiple foods at once. Just make sure foods such as dumplings are spread out far enough that they don’t stick together, even if they are already on cheesecloth, etc.
Cons
- Not suitable for dishwasher (Use vinegar, soap and water to clean instead)
- Several bamboo steamer reviews confirm the bottom basket unraveled after a few uses
Although there doesn’t appear to be any warranty on the product, the manufacturer JapanBargain may be helpful for cookware tips.
12. Joyce Chen Bamboo Steamer
Joyce Chen Bamboo Steamer
$32.99 in stock
Free shipping
Features
- 12-inch 3-piece steamer made of naturally sustainable bamboo
- 2-tier design for cooking different types of food at the same time
- Double-woven bamboo lid with loop handle traps steam efficiently
- Wash by hand; for use in a wok or over a sauce pan
- Measures 12 by 12 by 6-2/7 inches
In two-tiered baskets, and with foods that require the same amount of time to prepare, you may find that swapping the stackable baskets helps to expedite the cooking time. This also may become a handy cookware tip to avoid too much heat on whichever one is considered the “bottom” basket.
Key Features
- Two-tier stackable baskets
- 12 inches x 12 inches x 6.3 inches
The eco-friendly material used for bamboo steamers such as this one are made from grass, not wood, which has been a useful way to cook and a great way to save trees too. And unlike wood, bamboo is stronger than wood but bendable enough to twist and turn into such beautiful baskets.
Cons
- Not suitable for dishwasher (Use vinegar, soap and water to clean instead)
Joyce Chen, the manufacturer of this bamboo steamer, started her first restaurant in Cambridge, Massachusetts in 1958. And since the 1970s, she has hosted a cooking show, created Chinese cookbooks, released cookware under her own name and has videos galore on best cooking tips. Whether you choose this bamboo steamer or another, looking up her name for best cooking care tips is a good way to stay creative with food ideas.
Bottom Line
While there is a valid argument to be made about whether a bamboo steamer is best used in a wok, skillet or a shallow pan, that decision is totally up to you. The goal is to be able to prepare your food without burning or ruining the bottom of the bamboo steamer. Chef Helen Chen makes a reasonable point about how using nonstick pans with bamboo steamers may wear out the materials of both products. However, keeping a watchful eye on the water level can also make a difference. Make sure to carefully clean your bamboo steamer by hand after each meal and remove all remnants of food. As mentioned previously (review number four), cleaning before first use is always a good idea, too, to avoid that woodsy taste. (The same can be said for new grills and new pots and pans. Because they are handled quite often and may be out on vendor tables, soaking and cleaning before use is not only good for food hygiene but also a valid safety concern.) As with other cooking utensils, proper maintenance will help to keep your cookware around for a longer amount of time.
The Review
Best Bamboo Steamer
Steaming foods is a great way to include variety and is a healthier option over frying things! Read on for our top recommendations.
Review Breakdown
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All Natural 9 Inch Asian Kitchen Bamboo Steamer Basket
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Premium Organic Bamboo Steamer Basket
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Natural Bamboo Steamer Basket
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Zoie + Chloe 100% Natural Bamboo Steamer Basket
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Helen Chen's Asian Kitchen Bamboo Steamer
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Trademark Innovations 3 Piece Bamboo Steamer
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Mister Kitchenware Handmade Bamboo Steamer
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Handmade Food Wooden Steamer
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Bamboo Steamer
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Flexzion Bamboo Steamer Basket
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JapanBargain Bamboo Cooking Steamer Set
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Joyce Chen Bamboo Steamer
