Wood cabinets and white countertop in kitchen

HOW TO MAKE DELICIOUS MICROWAVE-STEAMED FISH

Steamed fish is a savory, flavorful meal with nearly limitless recipe variations. You can steam fish right in your microwave, creating a delicious and savory meal that accentuates the flavors of the fish. This versatile dish can be served with a wide variety of sides, such as veggie noodles, seasoned rice and much more. Read on to learn how to microwave steamed fish and explore the endless flavor possibilities.

WHAT TYPES OF FISH ARE BEST FOR STEAMING IN THE MICROWAVE?

Thicker fish like bass, halibut, salmon and snapper are typically suitable for steaming. It is best to avoid fish like swordfish, bluefish and mackerel when steaming, due to their oily and firm texture.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO STEAM FISH IN THE MICROWAVE?

The amount of time it takes to steam fish depends on its size. For a one-inch thick filet, steaming may take about 4-5 minutes, but can take longer with a thicker fish. 

Cook times may vary depending on your microwave’s power level. When it comes to steaming fish, set your power level to high (90%). Check your microwave’s user manual for more specific instructions on how to set your power level.  For a KitchenAid® microwave, press COOK TIME and enter your desired cook time. Afterward, press POWER LEVELS and enter your desired power level. 

Select KitchenAid® microwaves have a Sensor Steam setting to help you steam your food. To use this feature on your KitchenAid® microwave, first refer to your owner's manual. Using your provided steamer vessel, a sensor will detect when liquid begins to boil, then begin the Steam or Simmer countdown. Do not remove the lid while the steamer is in the microwave oven, as the steam could disrupt the sensor readings. 

MICROWAVE STEAMED FISH RECIPE

Whether you are making fresh fish to serve alongside homemade tomatillo salsa or you plan to put an Asian twist on the recipe—drizzling it with a lime dressing—steaming fish in the microwave is a great way to get deliciously flaky, savory results in no time.

TOOLS

INGREDIENTS

  • Fish filets

  • Freshly ground spices and herbs, such as cumin, as needed

  • Homemade sauces, such as soy sauce or pesto, as needed

YIELDS

4 servings

PREP TIME

6 minutes

COOK TIME

5 minutes

TOTAL TIME

11 minutes

 

Salmon with sauce on it

STEP 1: PREPARE THE FISH

Drizzle a small amount of oil in a glass dish and place the fish inside. It’s okay if multiple fish overlap one another.

Various ingredients on kitchen table

STEP 2: CUSTOMIZE THE FISH FILETS

Experiment with seasonings and sauces to add bursts of flavor to your fish filets. These could include herbs and spices you’ve ground at home with your KitchenAid® Coffee and Spice Grinder, or any homemade sauces. Add as much or little as desired, or as recommended by your recipe.

Person pressing “open” button on microwave

STEP 3: STEAM IN THE MICROWAVE

Put the lightly covered dish in the microwave and steam for 4-5 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fish. Check the fish for doneness—being careful when you open the hot, steamy container—and add another few minutes if necessary. Once done, serve immediately.

 

Select KitchenAid® microwaves include a Simmer Cook Cycle feature. This features a microwave sensor that triggers a cycle that precisely steams food based on type and selected doneness. Just add water to the provided steamer container to help achieve the optimal cooking results.

SHOP KITCHENAID® MICROWAVES FOR MAKING STEAMED FISH

Select KitchenAid® microwaves include a Simmer Cook Cycle feature. This features a microwave sensor that triggers a cycle that precisely steams food based on type and selected doneness. Just add water to the provided steamer container to help achieve the best cooking results.

SEASONING SUGGESTIONS FOR STEAMED FISH

Seasonings can help bring your dish to life and accentuate the flavors of your fresh, steamed fish. Consider grinding your own herbs and spices for added flavor, as well. Some common seasonings to use with steamed fish include:

  • Salt

  • Pepper

  • Garlic Powder

  • Onion Powder

SIDE DISHES TO SERVE WITH STEAMED FISH

There are a wide variety of side dishes that can complement the flavors infused in your steamed fish. Below are some examples of side dishes that can help elevate your meal:

HOW DO I GET THE FISH SMELL OUT OF MY MICROWAVE?

Cleaning your microwave with baking soda and water can help remove the fish smell. Follow these steps to clean your microwave and get it back to smelling fresh before your next creation:

  1. Combine two tablespoons of baking soda with a cup of water

  2. Pour the mixture into a microwave-safe bowl and heat it for 2-3 minutes 

  3. Wipe down the interior of your microwave

  4. If the fish smell is still lingering, you can leave the baking soda box inside your microwave overnight to help absorb the smell—just be sure that no one uses the microwave while the box is in place

SHOP KITCHENAID® MICROWAVES

KitchenAid® microwaves can help transform a few ingredients into your own culinary masterpiece. Customize your cooking experience with features like Sensor Cooking, Broil element, Sensor steam cycle and many more. These are just a few of the features that can help elevate your cooking experience from a hobby to a passion.

LEARN MORE ABOUT MICROWAVES WITH KITCHENAID BRAND