Boiling or Steaming: Which Is A Better Method To Cook Your Vegetables?

Boiling or Steaming: Vegetables are a rich source of essential nutrients, fibre and antioxidants, making them a crucial component of a healthy and well-balanced diet. Many individuals, particularly those who are diet-conscious, opt for two popular methods of cooking vegetables i.e. boiling and steaming. Both of these methods have their own set of benefits while leaving individuals often confused about which one is more effective. To understand this, we've drawn a comparison between these two cooking methods of vegetables that will help you make a better decision.

Boiling Vegetables

Boiling vegetables has both positive and negative effects. On the one hand, it can lead to significant nutrient loss, especially if boiling time is prolonged. Overcooking can also result in a loss of colour and flavour while on the other side, boiling can also have a beneficial effect by removing substances like oxalates which can contribute to kidney stone formation. Despite its drawbacks, boiling can still be a healthy cooking option if done thoughtfully as it's essential to boil vegetables briefly and its cooking water can be used as a base for soups or sauces.

Steaming Vegetables

Steaming vegetables is a cooking method that preserves nutrients and flavour. Unlike boiling, steaming is a brief process that minimises nutrient loss, making it an ideal way to cook most vegetables. Additionally, studies have shown that steaming brings out the natural sweetness and flavour of vegetables, making them taste better than boiled ones. This gentle cooking method helps retain the vibrant colours and textures of vegetables.

Steaming helps to preserve the texture of veggies (Image Credits: Canva)

Boiling or Steaming: Which Is Better To Cook?

When it comes to cooking vegetables, both steaming and boiling are healthy options. However, the choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preference and the type of dish being prepared. For nutrient retention, steaming is the clear winner. On the other hand, boiling is a better option when looking to remove toxic substances like oxalates that can harm kidney health.

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Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information.