Adding food to the basket before the water boils

While steaming is a very simple cooking method, it is critical to be very deliberate about timing. According to The Seattle Times, placing the food in the basket over the water before the water has begun to boil or while the water is heating up is a mistake. Wait for the water to begin boiling before adding the food to the basket and sealing the pot with a lid. If you don't have a lid, use aluminum foil instead.

If you fill the pot with water, place the basket in the pot, seal the pot, and then turn on the stove to begin heating the water, you risk overcooking whatever you're cooking as the pot begins to boil. It's easier to stick to a precise cooking time if you don't start cooking until the water is at a rapid boil, especially if you're following a recipe.