Steaming is a simple way to prepare cauliflower. It’s also the best way to keep cauliflower from turning an unappealing brown color when it’s cooked, which can happen with boiling or microwaving.
Can you steam cauliflower without a steamer? Yes, you can steam cauliflower without a steamer. You can either use a pot or a microwave.
So if you don’t have a steamer handy and want your cauliflower in just minutes, here are two ways you can steam it without one.
In this article, I will discuss the different methods, as well as tips on how to make them work best for you.
Best Ways To Steam Cauliflower
There are many ways to steam cauliflower, but not all of them work equally well.
Below are the two most popular methods of steaming cauliflower without a steamer, as well as some tips on how to make them work best.
-Using a colander
-Using a microwave
-Using a stovetop

Tips For Steaming Cauliflower Without a Steamer
Here are some tips for steaming cauliflower without a steamer:
– Make sure the pot or bowl you’re using is big enough to fit the cauliflower head in without too much extra space.
– Bring the water to a boil before adding the cauliflower to the pot.
– If you’re using a microwave, add about 1/4 cup of water to the bowl or dish you’re using and place the cauliflower in it.
– Be sure to check the cauliflower regularly while it’s steaming to make sure it’s not overcooking.
– Use a sharp knife to test the doneness of the cauliflower. It should be fork-tender when it’s done.

How To Steam Cauliflower Using a Colander
Using the colander gives me the most control over the steaming process. I can make sure the cauliflower is not submerged in the water. Providing me with a consistent, reliable result.
If you want to steam cauliflower using a colander, follow these simple steps:
1. Fill a pot with about 1-2 inches of water and bring it to a boil.
2. Place the colander in the pot and place the cauliflower pieces in the colander.
3. Cover the pot with a lid and let the cauliflower steam for 5-7 minutes for crunchier cauliflower, or 8-10 minutes for softer cauliflower.
4. Remove the colander from the pot and let the cauliflower cool slightly before serving.

How To Steam Cauliflower Using a Microwave
Steaming cauliflower in the microwave is definitely a faster way to do it than using a pot on the stove.
I find that the cauliflower is not as consistent in terms of doneness when microwaving it, so you may have to experiment a little bit to see what works best for you.
If you want to steam cauliflower using a microwave, follow these simple steps:
1. Add about 1/4 cup of water to a microwave-safe bowl or dish.
2. Place the cauliflower florets in the bowl with water.
3. Microwave the cauliflower on high for 5-7 minutes, or until it’s fork-tender.
4. Remove the cauliflower from the microwave and enjoy!
How To Steam Cauliflower In A Pot on Stovetop
This is my fav method for steaming cauliflower without a steamer. I get the best results when I use a pot with a lid.
If you want to steam cauliflower in a pot on the stovetop, follow these simple steps:
1. Fill a pot with about 1-2 inches of water and bring it to a boil.
2. Place the cauliflower florets in the pot and cover them with water.
3. Bring the water to a boil and let the cauliflower cook for 3-5 minutes, or for softer cauliflower, let it cook for 8-10 minutes.
4. Remove the cauliflower from the pot and enjoy your steamed cauliflower!
How To Steam Cauliflower Without A Steamer Recipe

How To Steam Cauliflower Without A Steamer Recipe
Steaming is a simple way to prepare cauliflower. It's also the best way to keep cauliflower from turning an unappealing brown color when it's cooked, which can happen with boiling or microwaving.
Ingredients
- 1 cauliflower head
- 1 tsp salt
Instructions
How To Steam Cauliflower Using a Colander
- Fill a pot with about 1-2 inches of water and bring it to a boil.
- Place the colander in the pot and place the cauliflower pieces in the colander.
- Cover the pot with a lid and let the cauliflower steam for 5-7 minutes for crunchier cauliflower, or 8-10 minutes for softer cauliflower.
- Remove the colander from the pot and let the cauliflower cool slightly before serving.
How To Steam Cauliflower Using a Microwave
- Add about 1/4 cup of water to a microwave-safe bowl or dish.
- Place the cauliflower florets in the bowl with water.
- Microwave the cauliflower on high for 5-7 minutes, or until it's fork-tender.
- Remove the cauliflower from the microwave and enjoy!
How To Steam Cauliflower In A Pot on Stovetop
- Fill a pot with about 1-2 inches of water and bring it to a boil.
- Place the cauliflower florets in the pot and cover them with water.
- Bring the water to a boil and let the cauliflower cook for 3-5 minutes, or for softer cauliflower, let it cook for 8-10 minutes.
- Remove the cauliflower from the pot and enjoy your steamed cauliflower!
Notes
- Make sure the pot or bowl you're using is big enough to fit the cauliflower head in without too much extra space.
- Bring the water to a boil before adding the cauliflower to the pot.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 32Total Fat 1gSaturated Fat 0gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 0gCholesterol 0mgSodium 602mgCarbohydrates 6gFiber 3gSugar 3gProtein 3g
Final Thoughts
So, now that you know how to steam cauliflower without a steamer, what’s your favorite way to do it?
Personally, I love using a colander because the texture is perfect for me.
But if you in a pinch on time then microwaving might be the better option for you.
If you are interested take a look at How To Steam Broccoli Without A Steamer